Why Is Dry Eye Common in Saudi Arabia?

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Why Is Dry Eye Common in Saudi Arabia?

Dry eye disease (DED) affects many people in Saudi Arabia – studies show that nearly one in every two adults experiences dryness, burning, or a sandy feeling in the eyes. This is often linked to our environment and lifestyle – hot weather, dust, air conditioning, and long screen hours all increase the risk of dry eye.

But remember, these symptoms are not normal and should not be ignored. If you feel persistent dryness or irritation, it’s important to consult your doctor or eye specialist.

1.Environmental factors that increase dry eye risk.

  • Hot, dry climate: The desert environment, with very high temperatures and low humidity, causes your tears to evaporate more quickly. This leads to eye dryness and irritation [5, 7].
  • Dust and air pollution: Frequent dust storms and airborne particles can irritate the eyes, making dry eye symptoms worse [5, 8].
  • Air conditioning: AC is used everywhere—at home, at work, in cars, and in shopping malls. It lowers indoor humidity, which dries out your eyes even more [5, 7].
  • Strong sunlight and UV exposure: Intense sunlight can also irritate the eyes and contribute to tear film instability [5].

2.Lifestyle Habits That Play a Role.

  • Long hours on screens: Using phones, computers, or tablets for more than a couple of hours at a time reduces blinking. Less blinking means less moisture on your eyes [5, 6, 9].
  • Wearing contact lenses: Contact lenses can make your eyes more sensitive and reduce natural tear film stability [5, 10].
  • Driving for long periods: Especially in air-conditioned cars or during dusty conditions, this can increase tear evaporation [7].
  • Not drinking enough water: Dehydration, which is common in hot climates, can worsen dry eye symptoms [7].

How Common Is Dry Eye in Saudi Arabia? 

Here’s What Studies Show:

Studies from different regions of Saudi Arabia show high rates of dry eye:

Region Prevalence Key risk factors References
National (various)
17.5–77%
Heat, low humidity, AC, screen use, and female gender.
[9]
Riyadh
42–68%
Screen time, age, gender, and climate.
[11]
Eastern Province
32–62%
Air conditioning, contact lenses, and chronic health conditions.
[12]