Jeddah and Medina Named “Healthy Cities” by WHO in Saudi Arabia

Dubai: Saudi Arabia has received international recognition as two of its major cities, Jeddah and Medina, have been designated as “Healthy Cities” by the World Health Organisation (WHO), the Kingdom’s Ministry of Health announced. This acknowledgment marks a significant milestone for Saudi Arabia, emphasizing the country’s focus on urban health, community well-being, and sustainable development.

First in the Region with Populations Over Two Million

Jeddah and Medina are the first cities in the Middle East with populations exceeding two million to earn this prestigious recognition. The WHO’s Healthy Cities initiative is a global program that identifies urban areas making outstanding efforts to improve public health, well-being, and quality of life for their residents. The fact that these two Saudi cities achieved this milestone reflects both their rapid urban development and commitment to improving health services and living conditions for their citizens.

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Rigorous Evaluation and International Standards

The WHO conducted a detailed and rigorous evaluation of Jeddah and Medina before granting the Healthy Cities status. The assessment measured over 80 international benchmarks across nine core areas. These areas include:

• Healthcare access – Ensuring all residents have access to quality medical care.

• Environmental sustainability – Promoting clean air, water, and eco-friendly urban planning.

• Community well-being – Supporting mental health, social activities, and safety.

• Urban planning – Building cities that are easy to navigate and livable.

• Public health education – Raising awareness about healthy lifestyles.

• Infrastructure and transport – Creating efficient and safe public transport systems.

• Technology in health services – Implementing digital tools to improve healthcare delivery.

• Policy implementation – Ensuring city governance actively promotes health and well-being.

• Cultural and recreational facilities – Encouraging physical activity and community engagement.

Meeting these rigorous standards was no small feat, and it reflects the concerted efforts of Saudi city officials, health authorities, and community leaders.

Saudi Arabia’s Position as a Leader in Healthcare Innovation

The Healthy Cities recognition comes at a time when Saudi Arabia is making significant strides in healthcare innovation and research. Among the most notable achievements is the groundbreaking research on robotic liver transplantation conducted by King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSHRC). This research was ranked among the top 10 most influential medical papers of 2024 by the American Society of Transplantation. Such international recognition highlights the Kingdom’s role as a pioneer in advanced medical procedures.

Additionally, seven Saudi hospitals were included in Brand Finance’s Global Top 250 Hospitals for 2025. This recognition reflects the high standards of patient care, state-of-the-art facilities, and healthcare infrastructure that Saudi Arabia has developed over recent years. These achievements demonstrate the Kingdom’s commitment to offering top-tier healthcare to its residents and becoming a global hub for medical research and innovation.

Alignment with Saudi Vision 2030

The Healthy Cities initiative is closely linked with Saudi Vision 2030, the Kingdom’s ambitious plan for economic and social reform. Vision 2030 focuses on creating a vibrant society, thriving economy, and an ambitious nation.

• Vibrant Society – The Healthy Cities designation directly supports this pillar by prioritizing community well-being, livability, and access to healthcare services. Jeddah and Medina are now role models for urban health, showcasing how cities can combine modern infrastructure with a focus on public health.

• Thriving Economy – The progress in medical innovation and healthcare research supports the knowledge-based industries pillar. By advancing technologies like robotic surgeries and modern hospital management, Saudi Arabia is fostering economic growth while improving healthcare outcomes.

Benefits for Residents and Visitors

The Healthy Cities designation is not just a symbolic title. It brings tangible benefits to residents and visitors alike:

• Improved healthcare services – More accessible clinics, hospitals, and specialized care facilities.

• Better environmental conditions – Cleaner air, green spaces, and sustainable city planning.

• Enhanced public safety – Safer streets and neighborhoods through better urban planning and community programs.

• Active lifestyles – More parks, recreational areas, and programs promoting physical activity.

• Community engagement – Opportunities for residents to participate in programs that improve health, social interaction, and well-being.

For tourists and pilgrims visiting Medina, one of Islam’s holiest cities, these improvements enhance their overall experience, making the city not only spiritually significant but also health-conscious and visitor-friendly.

Expanding the Healthy Cities Programme

With Jeddah and Medina now recognized as Healthy Cities, Saudi officials are planning to expand the program to other urban centers across the Kingdom. The initiative aims to create a nationwide network of cities that prioritize health, sustainability, and community welfare. By setting high standards in urban health, Saudi Arabia hopes to inspire cities worldwide and become a regional leader in promoting public health and livable urban environments.

Global Recognition and Regional Leadership

Being included among 16 cities worldwide to receive this accolade places Jeddah and Medina in a global spotlight. It highlights Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in healthcare innovation, sustainable urban planning, and community development. The recognition also strengthens the Kingdom’s international reputation as a country capable of combining rapid modernization with public health initiatives that serve millions of residents.

Saudi Arabia’s achievement in having Jeddah and Medina designated as WHO Healthy Cities demonstrates the Kingdom’s commitment to improving healthcare, sustainability, and community well-being. The recognition aligns with the broader goals of Vision 2030, showcasing Saudi Arabia’s dual focus on creating a vibrant society and a thriving economy.

As the Kingdom continues to expand the Healthy Cities initiative to other urban areas, Jeddah and Medina serve as inspiring examples of how urban centers can prioritize health, environment, and quality of life. With continued investments in medical research, innovative healthcare technologies, and sustainable urban planning, Saudi Arabia is steadily emerging as a global leader in health and well-being.

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