Oman’s Barka and Yanqul Receive WHO Healthy City Designation

Muscat, The Gulf Observer: The World Health Organization (WHO) has awarded the Healthy City designation to Barka in South Al Batinah Governorate and Yanqul in Al Dhahirah Governorate, bringing the total number of internationally accredited healthy cities in the Sultanate of Oman to eight.

The recognition reflects sustained institutional efforts and community participation aimed at creating healthier living environments and improving the quality of life in line with Oman’s strategic vision for developing healthy and sustainable communities.

Barka has become the first city in South Al Batinah Governorate to receive the Healthy City designation, while Yanqul is the first city in Al Dhahirah Governorate to attain the status. The achievement further strengthens Oman’s Healthy Cities Programme and enhances the country’s position within the regional and international healthy cities network.

The designation follows a series of initiatives implemented by various stakeholders to meet WHO requirements and standards. These efforts were assessed and verified through field visits conducted by the WHO regional team, with support from specialists from Oman’s Ministry of Health.

The achievement also highlights the importance of cross-sectoral cooperation, with government departments, executive offices, health committees, civil society organizations and community members contributing to initiatives designed to meet the Healthy City criteria.

The accreditation of Barka and Yanqul underscores Oman’s continued commitment to promoting public health, community well-being and sustainable development through coordinated national and local efforts.