Many people pay full price for their glasses without realising their medical insurance might cover part of the cost. This guide explains, in plain terms, what insurance usually covers for glasses and lenses, what documents you need, and how to check your cover online with Barakat Optical before you visit a branch.
- Some medical insurance policies in Saudi Arabia include an optical benefit and some do not. The details vary from policy to policy.
- Have your ID or Iqama, insurance card and prescription ready.
- Check your cover online in 3 steps. The result appears on the page and can be sent to you on WhatsApp.
- Eye tests are free at every Barakat Optical branch.
What Does Medical Insurance Usually Cover for Glasses?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer: coverage depends on your policy, your insurer and your card class. Some policies include an optical benefit with an annual limit or a set frequency, while others do not include one at all. Where the benefit exists, it usually covers one or more of the following:
Prescription lenses
The most common item in optical benefits. Cover may include standard vision-correcting lenses and, depending on the policy terms, some extras such as anti-reflective coatings or multifocal lenses.
Frames
Some policies cover the frame up to a set limit, so if you choose a pricier frame you only pay the difference. Others cover lenses but not frames.
Contact lenses
Some policies cover contact lenses instead of glasses or within the same limit, often with specific conditions, so ask before you order.
Eye exam
Some policies cover the eye exam, but at Barakat Optical you don't need insurance for it, because eye tests are free at all our branches.
Documents You Need
How to Check Your Cover Online in 3 Steps
Instead of calling your insurer and waiting, use our insurance coverage check page to know where you stand before you visit:
- Enter your details: fill in your basic and insurance details in a few minutes.
- Our team verifies: the Barakat Optical team checks your cover with the insurer. The result appears on the same page and can be sent to you on WhatsApp if you like.
- Visit your nearest branch: head to your nearest branch for a free eye test, choose your glasses and complete your order with insurance.
What if your policy doesn't cover glasses?
No problem: checking doesn't commit you to anything. If it turns out your policy has no optical benefit, you can still visit any branch for a free eye test and an up-to-date prescription, then choose glasses that fit your budget from a wide range at different price points, with honest advice from our optical specialists on the best lenses for your daily needs, whether reading, driving or long hours at a screen.
Tips to Get the Most from Your Insurance
- Know your limit before you choose: once you know your cover, you can pick frames and lenses with confidence and know any difference upfront.
- Use the benefit on time: many benefits are annual, so if you don't use yours before the policy renews you may lose it.
- Update your prescription: a free eye test makes sure the lenses your insurance covers match your current vision.
- Ask about extras: coatings such as anti-reflective or blue light filters may be covered or cost only a small difference.
- Keep your invoice and prescription: you may need them for a later claim or for your insurer.
- Family members: if your policy covers your family, each member may have their own benefit, especially children who need regular eye checks.
Why Barakat Optical?
- Free eye test at all branches.
- Many branches across the Kingdom, so there is one near you.
- Optical specialists who help you choose the right lenses and frame for your eyes and face.
- Free delivery on online orders over SAR 150.
- A wide range of eyeglasses to choose from within your coverage limit.
Choosing glasses for the first time? Read our face shape guide too.
FAQs
Does medical insurance cover eyeglasses in Saudi Arabia?
Some medical insurance policies include an optical benefit and some do not. Coverage and limits vary by policy, insurer and card class. The easiest way to know is to check your cover online on the Barakat Optical insurance check page.
What documents do I need to use my insurance for glasses?
Usually your National ID or Iqama, a valid medical insurance card and your eye prescription. Some insurers may also ask for a recent prescription or pre-approval.
How long does the online coverage check take?
Entering your details takes a few minutes. Our team then verifies your cover with the insurer, and the result appears on the same page and can also be sent to you on WhatsApp. Review time can vary by insurer.
Do I need an eye test before using my insurance?
You need an up-to-date prescription, and you can get one with a free eye test at any Barakat Optical branch, carried out by optical specialists.
Can I choose any frame when paying with insurance?
Usually yes, within your approved coverage limit. If you pick a frame or lens above the limit, you simply pay the difference. Our branch team will explain the details before you order.
Check your insurance online, then visit your nearest branch for a free eye test with the optical specialists at Barakat Optical.
Check my coverFind a branchWhatsApp 800 124 8882
