Saudi Arabia leads region with 21 WHO-accredited healthy cities

Saudi Arabia has firmly established itself as the leading region in the number of World Health Organization-accredited healthy cities, boasting a total of 21. This impressive feat underscores the Kingdom's commitment to fostering sustainable urban environments that prioritize human health and overall well-being.

The achievement of 21 healthy cities signifies a substantial stride towards creating urban settings that emphasize prevention and physical and mental health. This progress is propelled by several key factors, including community engagement, the establishment of robust health services, enhancements to emergency preparedness measures, and improvements to the urban landscape.

Saudi Arabia's pioneering efforts in this realm are spearheaded by the Ministry of Health's Healthy Cities program, which holds the distinction of being the first WHO collaborating center in the Eastern Mediterranean and North African region, and the fourth globally. This program transcends traditional healthcare services by adopting a holistic approach to health that encompasses urban planning, education, environmental considerations, and various facets of daily life.

By fostering collaboration with governmental bodies, the Healthy Cities program aims to expand the concept of health beyond the walls of healthcare institutions. This comprehensive strategy contributes to elevating the quality of life and cultivating healthier, more sustainable communities across the region.