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. This achievement can be attributed to the city's exceptional parks and walking paths and its dedication to promoting health through schools and primary care centers. The accreditation certificate was officially received by the Governor of the Eastern Region, Prince Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz, and the Minister of Health, Fahd bin Abdulrahman Al-Jalajel.
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.
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.
Al Jalajel expressed gratitude to the various entities involved in the main committee and subcommittees, including the Eastern Province Emirate, the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, the Ministry of Commerce, the General Directorate of Health Affairs in the Eastern Region, the General Directorate of Civil Defense, the General Directorate of Traffic, the Eastern Region Police, the General Directorate of Narcotics Control (GDNC), the Eastern Province Municipality, Asharqia Chamber, representatives of the Royal Commission for Jubail and Yanbu, representatives of Industrial Cities Authority, representatives of the Technical and Vocational Training Corporation, the National Center for Environmental Compliance (NCEC), the Coordination Council for Charitable Societies, and representatives of the community for various segments, as well as the city coordinator.