July 2024- Al-Khobar City has been certified as a healthy city after meeting 80 criteria established by the World Health Organization (WHO). The city not only met but exceeded the final evaluation, resulting in the receipt of an international accreditation certificate. The city’s exceptional parks and walking paths, along with its dedication to promoting health through schools and primary care centers, led to this achievement. The Governor of the Eastern Region, Prince Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz, and the Minister of Health, Fahd bin Abdulrahman Al-Jalajel, officially received the accreditation certificate.

The Minister of Health stated that the World Health Organization’s accreditation of Al-Khobar as a healthy city comes with the continuous support of the governor and the deputy governor of the Eastern Province, the follow-up and interest of the Director of Health Affairs, and the combined efforts of all sectors with society.

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Furthermore, The Healthy Cities Programme, under the Ministry of Health, is the first collaborating center with the World Health Organization for healthy cities at the regional level and the fourth globally. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia boasts the largest number of accredited healthy cities in the region, with 16 such cities located in various regions. The programme is characterized by its efforts to enhance the quality of life and prioritize health in development projects. It does so by setting targets for future health indicators, implementing initiatives and programs to promote sustainability, and working towards reducing lifestyle-related chronic diseases. Ultimately, the goal is to improve Saudi Arabia’s standing in international health indicators, mitigate health risks and medical costs, and contribute to the creation of a healthy and vibrant society.