Saudi Gazette report

MADINAH — Madinah city has been certified with the Gold Level of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Cities Program by the United Nations Human Settlements Program (UN-Habitat).

This recognition makes Madinah the first city in Saudi Arabia and the Arab region, and the third globally, to complete the second phase of the international requirements of the SDG Cities Program.

The certification ceremony was presided over by Prince Salman Bin Sultan, Emir of the Madinah Region and Chairman of the Board of Madinah Region Development Authority.

It was also attended by Prince Saud Bin Khaled Al Faisal, Deputy Emir of the Madinah Region, and Fahad Al-Buliheshi, Mayor of Al-Madinah Region and CEO of its Development Authority.

This achievement highlights Madinah's thorough assessment of its sustainable urban development progress and its commitment to an inclusive strategic vision.

This vision includes transformative actions aimed at achieving the SDGs by 2030, ensuring that no one or place is left behind.

The city's progress from receiving the Silver Certificate last year to achieving the Gold Level this year showcases Madinah’s leading role in localizing the SDGs both internationally and nationally.

This aligns with Madinah’s human-centered smart city strategy, which aims to build a vibrant community, improve the quality of life for its residents, and enrich the experiences of its visitors sustainably.