Saudi Arabia Leads Region with 21 WHO-Accredited Healthy Cities

Saudi Arabia has been recognized as the regional leader in healthy urban development, with 21 cities accredited by the World Health Organization (WHO) as healthy cities, the Saudi Press Agency reported on October 31, 2026, coinciding with World Cities Day. The accreditation includes Jeddah and Madinah, the two largest healthy cities in the Middle East with populations exceeding one million, underscoring the Kingdom’s commitment to sustainable urban health under Saudi Vision 2030. This achievement reflects a national strategy that integrates health into all policies, setting a benchmark for the Eastern Mediterranean and North Africa region.

World Cities Day, observed annually on October 31, highlights the role of urbanization in sustainable development. Saudi Arabia’s milestone demonstrates how a comprehensive approach—spanning community empowerment, intersectoral cooperation, and environmental planning—can yield tangible results. The accreditation of 21 cities, including major metropolises and university campuses, signals a paradigm shift in how the Kingdom addresses public health, moving beyond traditional healthcare to embed well-being into the fabric of urban life. As nations worldwide grapple with the challenges of rapid urbanization, Saudi Arabia’s model offers a replicable framework for creating healthier, more resilient communities.

Context and Background

How did Saudi Arabia emerge as a pioneer in healthy city development? The WHO’s Healthy Cities program, launched in the 1980s, encourages municipalities to prioritize health in urban planning. Saudi Arabia’s journey began with the Ministry of Health’s Healthy Cities Program, which became the first WHO collaborating center in the Eastern Mediterranean region and the fourth globally. This status reflects the Kingdom’s proactive stance in aligning local health initiatives with international standards. The program operates under the Ministerial Committee for Health in All Policies, ensuring that health considerations are integrated into decisions across sectors—from urban design to education and environmental management.

The accreditation process evaluates cities against 80 international standards across nine key areas: community empowerment for health and development, intersectoral cooperation, community information centers, skills development and capacity building, health services, the urban environment, emergency preparedness and response, education, and support for small projects. These criteria ensure a holistic approach, addressing not only medical services but also the social, economic, and environmental determinants of health. By meeting these standards, Saudi cities have demonstrated a commitment to creating environments that promote physical activity, social cohesion, and equitable access to healthcare, setting a regional example for others to follow.

Among the accredited cities are Jeddah, Al-Khobar, Hail, Tabuk, Madinah, Unaizah, Al-Jumum, Diriyah, Taif, Jalajil, Al-Ghat, Al-Zulfi, Riyadh Al-Khubara, Sharurah, Al-Aridhah, Al-Mandaq, Abha, Muhayil Aseer, Tarib, as well as King Khalid University and Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University. This diverse list includes large urban centers, smaller towns, and academic institutions, illustrating the program’s reach across the Kingdom. The inclusion of universities highlights the role of educational institutions in fostering health-promoting environments for students and staff, further embedding healthy living into the national culture.

Key Details of the Accreditation

What does it take for a city to be recognized as healthy by the WHO? The accreditation is not merely an honor; it signifies that a city has implemented policies and infrastructure that actively improve residents’ quality of life. In Saudi Arabia, the process involved collaboration among the Ministry of Health, the Ministerial Committee for Health in All Policies, and various government entities. This coordination ensured that health was not treated as an isolated sector but as a shared responsibility. For instance, urban planning departments worked to create green spaces and pedestrian-friendly areas, while educational institutions integrated health awareness into curricula, and social services supported community health initiatives.

The nine key areas assessed cover a wide spectrum. Community empowerment for health and development ensures that residents have a voice in decisions affecting their well-being. Intersectoral cooperation breaks down silos between government departments, fostering integrated solutions. Community information centers provide access to health resources, while skills development and capacity building equip local leaders and health workers. Health services must be accessible and of high quality, and the urban environment should promote safety and active living. Emergency preparedness and response are critical for resilience, education fosters health literacy, and support for small projects encourages innovation in health promotion.

Jeddah and Madinah, as the largest accredited cities, exemplify these principles. Jeddah, a bustling port city and commercial hub, has invested in public transportation, recreational spaces, and health facilities that cater to its diverse population. Madinah, a city of immense spiritual significance, has balanced the needs of millions of pilgrims with the well-being of its residents, implementing health protocols and infrastructure that ensure a safe and healthy environment for all. Their success demonstrates that even cities with unique challenges can achieve WHO standards through dedicated effort and strategic planning.

International and Regional Impact

How does Saudi Arabia’s achievement influence the broader region? As the leader in the Eastern Mediterranean and North Africa with 21 accredited healthy cities, the Kingdom sets a high bar for neighboring countries. The WHO’s Eastern Mediterranean Regional Office has praised Saudi Arabia’s efforts, noting that the Kingdom’s model could be adapted to other nations facing similar urbanization and health challenges. By sharing best practices and hosting training programs through its WHO collaborating center, Saudi Arabia is fostering regional cooperation and capacity building, reinforcing its role as a stabilizing and progressive force in the Middle East.

On the global stage, Saudi Arabia’s healthy cities initiative contributes to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities). The Kingdom’s experience shows that integrating health into urban planning can lead to measurable improvements in public health outcomes. International organizations and urban planners are taking note, with delegations visiting Saudi cities to study their approaches. This knowledge exchange enhances Saudi Arabia’s soft power and positions it as a thought leader in sustainable development, aligning with its Vision 2030 goal of becoming a global investment and diplomatic powerhouse.

Economic and Strategic Significance

Why does healthy urban development matter for Saudi Arabia’s economy? A healthy population is a productive population. By reducing the burden of chronic diseases and improving overall well-being, healthy cities can lower healthcare costs and increase workforce productivity. This is crucial as Saudi Arabia diversifies its economy away from oil dependency under Vision 2030. Healthy cities also attract investment and tourism by offering high living standards and safe environments. The accreditation of cities like Jeddah and Madinah enhances their appeal as destinations for business and leisure, supporting the Kingdom’s goals to boost tourism and private sector growth.

Moreover, the healthy cities program stimulates local economies through support for small projects. By encouraging entrepreneurship in health-related sectors—such as fitness, nutrition, and wellness—the initiative creates jobs and fosters innovation. The strategic integration of health into urban planning also reduces long-term infrastructure costs by preventing health crises and promoting efficient resource use. As Saudi Arabia continues to develop mega-projects like NEOM and the Red Sea Project, the principles of healthy cities will be embedded from the outset, ensuring that new urban centers are built with well-being at their core, thus sustaining economic growth and enhancing quality of life.

Vision 2030 Alignment

How does the healthy cities initiative embody the goals of Saudi Vision 2030? Vision 2030 aims to create a vibrant society with a high quality of life, and the healthy cities program directly contributes to this objective. By fostering healthy, sustainable urban environments, the Kingdom is not only improving public health but also enhancing the overall livability of its cities. This aligns with Vision 2030’s emphasis on community empowerment, environmental sustainability, and economic diversification. The accreditation of 21 cities is a tangible milestone in the journey toward a healthier, more prosperous Saudi Arabia, demonstrating the leadership’s commitment to the well-being of both citizens and residents.

Looking ahead, Saudi Arabia plans to expand the healthy cities program to more municipalities, aiming for even broader coverage. The Ministry of Health will continue to collaborate with WHO and other partners to refine standards and share expertise. As the Kingdom prepares to host major international events, such as Expo 2030 in Riyadh, the healthy cities model will showcase Saudi Arabia’s progress to the world. Ultimately, this initiative reflects the visionary leadership of the Kingdom, which prioritizes health as a foundation for sustainable development and global competitiveness, ensuring that Saudi Arabia remains at the forefront of innovative urban health solutions.

20 Questions

Q1. What is a WHO-accredited healthy city?

A1. A WHO-accredited healthy city is one that meets international standards for health and well-being, integrating health into urban planning and policies. It signifies a commitment to creating environments that promote physical, mental, and social health for all residents.

Q2. How many Saudi cities are accredited as healthy cities by the WHO?

A2. Saudi Arabia has 21 cities accredited as healthy cities by the World Health Organization, the highest number in the Eastern Mediterranean and North Africa region. This includes major cities like Jeddah and Madinah.

Q3. Which are the largest healthy cities in the Middle East?

A3. Jeddah and Madinah are the largest healthy cities in the Middle East, each with populations exceeding one million. Their accreditation demonstrates that large urban centers can achieve high health standards.

Q4. What are the nine key areas assessed for healthy city accreditation?

A4. The nine areas are community empowerment, intersectoral cooperation, community information centers, skills development, health services, urban environment, emergency preparedness, education, and support for small projects. These cover a holistic approach to urban health.

Q5. How does the healthy cities program align with Saudi Vision 2030?

A5. The program aligns with Vision 2030’s goal of a vibrant society with a high quality of life. It promotes healthy, sustainable urban environments, enhancing livability and well-being, which are central to the Kingdom’s transformation.

Q6. What role does the Ministry of Health play in the healthy cities initiative?

A6. The Ministry of Health leads the Healthy Cities Program, which is a WHO collaborating center. It coordinates with other government entities to integrate health into all policies and ensure cities meet accreditation standards.

Q7. What is the Ministerial Committee for Health in All Policies?

A7. The Ministerial Committee for Health in All Policies is a government body that ensures health considerations are included in decisions across all sectors. It facilitates intersectoral cooperation to create healthy urban environments.

Q8. How does community empowerment contribute to healthy cities?

A8. Community empowerment involves giving residents a voice in decisions affecting their health and development. It fosters ownership and participation, leading to more effective and sustainable health initiatives tailored to local needs.

Q9. What are the benefits of intersectoral cooperation in urban health?

A9. Intersectoral cooperation breaks down silos between government departments, allowing for integrated solutions. It ensures that health is considered in urban planning, education, environment, and social services, maximizing impact.

Q10. How do community information centers support healthy cities?

A10. Community information centers provide access to health resources and education, empowering residents to make informed decisions. They serve as hubs for health promotion and disease prevention at the local level.

Q11. Why is skills development important for healthy cities?

A11. Skills development and capacity building equip local leaders, health workers, and community members with the knowledge and tools to address health challenges. It ensures sustainability and fosters innovation in health promotion.

Q12. What health services are required for WHO accreditation?

A12. Cities must offer accessible, high-quality health services, including preventive care, primary healthcare, and emergency services. These services should be equitable and responsive to the community’s needs.

Q13. How does the urban environment impact public health?

A13. The urban environment—including green spaces, safe roads, and clean air—directly affects physical activity, mental health, and overall well-being. Healthy cities design environments that promote active, healthy lifestyles.

Q14. What is the significance of emergency preparedness in healthy cities?

A14. Emergency preparedness ensures that cities can respond effectively to health crises, natural disasters, and outbreaks. It protects residents and maintains continuity of care, making communities more resilient.

Q15. How does education contribute to healthy cities?

A15. Education fosters health literacy, teaching residents about nutrition, hygiene, and disease prevention. Schools and universities also serve as platforms for health promotion, shaping lifelong healthy behaviors.

Q16. What support is provided for small projects in healthy cities?

A16. Support for small projects encourages entrepreneurship in health-related sectors, such as fitness, nutrition, and wellness. It stimulates local economies and fosters innovation in health promotion, creating jobs and improving access to healthy options.

Q17. How does Saudi Arabia’s healthy cities program benefit the region?

A17. As a WHO collaborating center, Saudi Arabia shares best practices and trains other countries. Its leadership sets a benchmark, fostering regional cooperation and helping neighbors improve urban health and well-being.

Q18. What economic advantages do healthy cities bring to Saudi Arabia?

A18. Healthy cities reduce healthcare costs, boost workforce productivity, and attract investment and tourism. They support economic diversification by creating appealing environments for businesses and residents, aligning with Vision 2030.

Q19. How can other countries learn from Saudi Arabia’s experience?

A19. Other countries can study Saudi Arabia’s integrated approach, which combines community empowerment, intersectoral cooperation, and international standards. The Kingdom’s WHO collaborating center offers training and resources for knowledge exchange.

Q20. What future plans does Saudi Arabia have for expanding healthy cities?

A20. Saudi Arabia aims to expand the program to more municipalities, continuing to collaborate with WHO. The goal is to embed health in all urban development, including new mega-projects, ensuring sustainable, healthy living for all.

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