The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic took the world by storm. Saudi Arabia (SA) made significant efforts to limit the impact of the pandemic. As COVID-19 is no longer a pandemic, it is necessary to reflect on the lessons, challenges, and missed opportunities from the Saudi experience with COVID-19. SA implemented extensive measures to mitigate the pandemic's impact. This study analyzed the measures taken on three major fronts: public health, scientific research, and clinical practice. This reflection is structured around three key fronts: public health, scientific research, and clinical practice. It was found that SA adopted progressive public measures that succeeded in curbing the number of cases, along with mass testing and vaccination programs, further facilitated by technology. Nevertheless, vaccine hesitancy and ineffective educational campaigns hindered such efforts. While SA rapidly allocated research funds, the lack of strategic direction limited the applicability of the research outputs. The clinical management of COVID-19 in SA was evidence-based; however, the North American and European guidelines heavily influenced it and did not benefit from the local academic studies, nor were national clinical trials conducted to inform its clinical practice. These lessons, challenges, and missed opportunities should be carefully considered by healthcare policymakers in order to advance Saudi preparedness for future outbreaks.