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The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared Medina the healthiest city in the Middle East, recognizing it as a “Healthy City” for the second time. Jeddah ranks second in the region.
According to the Saudi Press Agency, Medina earned the title after fulfilling 80 criteria set by WHO, including access to parks, walking paths, primary healthcare centers, and health education in schools.
The certification ceremony was held in Medina, where Saudi Minister of Health Fahd Al-Jaljal presented the recognition to Prince Salman bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz, Governor of the Medina Region. Also in attendance were Fahad Al-Bulayashi, Mayor of Medina, and CEO of the Medina Development Authority.
Prince Salman praised the achievement as a reflection of Saudi Arabia’s leadership vision, which prioritizes human development and quality of life. He said Medina is undergoing continuous transformation in urban planning and healthcare, making it a model city both regionally and globally.
In addition to Medina and Jeddah, WHO has also designated 14 other Saudi cities as “Healthy Cities.” These include Taif, Tabuk, Diriyah, Unaizah, Jala Jil, Al Mandaq, Al Jumum, Riyadh Al-Khubra, and Sharura.
Officials say these recognitions reflect the success of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which promotes sustainable urban development and cross-sector collaboration to improve public health and city living.
The WHO’s recognition further strengthens Medina’s position as a leading city in health-focused urban development across the Middle East.
