The various healthcare institutions were merged to become a ministerial body in 1950. Abdullah bin Faisal Al Saud was the first health minister and served in the position for three years, with his main role to set up the newly formed Ministry. Once Abdullah bin Faisal Al Saud had served in the position for three years, a new Minister of Health was appointed. Dr. Rashad Bin Mahmoud Pharaon became the MOH's second Minister, serving in the position between 1953 and 1960.