Middle East Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Systems Market Outlook (2021-2031)

The Middle East magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems market is projected to grow significantly, reaching an estimated US$ 268.5 million by 2031, up from US$ 226.2 million in 2024. This growth represents a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.5% from 2025 to 2031.

Executive Summary and Market Analysis

The MRI systems market in the Middle East presents a combination of promising growth opportunities and inherent structural challenges. The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries are at the forefront, showcasing advanced installations and robust governmental support for healthcare initiatives. In contrast, nations like Jordan and Lebanon are still in the nascent stages of MRI adoption, primarily due to constraints in resources and healthcare infrastructure.

The demand for MRI technology is on the rise, driven by an increase in neurological disorders, cancers, and cardiovascular diseases, which in turn is creating a pressing need to enhance diagnostic capabilities. Governments across the region are progressively investing in the modernization of healthcare systems, often in collaboration with international partners and private sector initiatives. However, challenges such as affordability, uneven distribution of advanced medical facilities, and a shortage of trained radiologists continue to hinder broader adoption of MRI technology. Despite these obstacles, the region is experiencing gradual growth, with high-field MRI systems anticipated to gain traction as healthcare reforms advance.

Market Segmentation Analysis

The analysis of the Middle East MRI systems market is categorized into several key segments: type, field strength, mobility, application, and end user.

By Type: The market is divided into closed MRI systems and open MRI systems. In 2024, closed MRI systems held the largest market share.
By Field Strength: MRI systems are classified into low-field, mid-field, and high & ultra-high field systems. The mid-field segment was the dominant category in 2024.
By Mobility: The market is segmented into fixed and portable MRI systems, with fixed systems leading the market in 2024.
By Application: The applications of MRI systems include neurology, oncology, cardiology, orthopedics, gastroenterology, gynecology, and others. The neurology segment was the largest in 2024.
By End User: The end users of MRI systems include hospitals, specialty clinics, diagnostic imaging centers, academic and research institutes, among others. Hospitals accounted for the largest share of the market in 2024.

Market Outlook

The Middle East MRI systems market is characterized by a combination of extensive public sector procurement and a vibrant private healthcare sector. A significant driver of growth is the region's strategic emphasis on advanced diagnostic technologies to address the increasing demand for imaging services in oncology, neurology, and musculoskeletal conditions. Leading hospitals in countries such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Israel are early adopters of high-field and hybrid MRI systems, while refurbished mid-field scanners are prevalent in more cost-sensitive markets like Egypt and Jordan.

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in imaging and the rise of teleradiology are enhancing diagnostic accuracy and extending services to underserved regions. Additionally, the growth of medical tourism in cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Istanbul is fostering ongoing investments in cutting-edge medical technologies.

Country Insights

The MRI systems market in the Middle East can be analyzed by country, with key players including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Oman, Kuwait, Qatar, and Turkey. As of 2024, Saudi Arabia held the largest market share.

Saudi Arabia is leading the regional market, driven by its Vision 2030 reforms, which emphasize large-scale hospital expansions, the adoption of advanced imaging technologies, and the training of specialized radiology professionals. The UAE follows closely as a hub for medical tourism, benefiting from state-of-the-art private hospitals and early adoption of digital MRI solutions. Turkey boasts a strong healthcare system and serves as a regional referral center for neighboring countries. Israel is recognized for its research-driven innovations, with hospitals implementing advanced 3T and functional MRI systems. Egypt is emerging as a growing market, supported by public sector modernization and an increase in private diagnostic centers. Smaller markets like Jordan and Lebanon continue to depend on private providers and cross-border patient inflows to sustain their growth.

Company Profiles

Key players in the Middle East MRI systems market include GE HealthCare, Siemens Healthineers AG, FUJIFILM Holdings Corporation, Canon Inc., Koninklijke Philips N.V., HYPERFINE, INC., Esaote SPA, Shanghai United Imaging Healthcare Co., LTD, FONAR Corp., and Neusoft Medical Systems. These companies are employing strategies such as market expansion, product innovation, and mergers and acquisitions to maintain competitiveness and deliver innovative solutions to their customers. Show more