Madinah Achieves Gold Level in Sustainable Development Goals Cities Program
Madinah, The Gulf Observer: Madinah Governor and Chairman of the Madinah Region Development Authority (MDA), Prince Salman bin Sultan, presided over the ceremony that conferred upon Madinah the prestigious Gold Level of the Sustainable Development Goals Cities program. The event, held on Saturday, marked a significant milestone for Madinah, making it the first Arab city to attain the Gold Level recognition in the program, accredited by the UN’s Human Settlements Program (UN-Habitat).
In attendance were notable dignitaries, including Prince Saud bin Khaled Al-Faisal, the Deputy Governor of Madinah, and Fahad Al-Buliheshi, Mayor of the Madinah region and CEO of the MDA.
Madinah’s journey to the Gold Level comes after successfully completing the second of the three phases of requirements set by the Sustainable Development Goals Cities program. Notably, Madinah had achieved the program’s Silver Certificate a year prior, underscoring the city’s steadfast commitment to sustainable urban development.
The achievement reflects Madinah’s dedication to a comprehensive baseline data assessment, evaluating the city’s progress in sustainable urban development. The city has demonstrated an unparalleled commitment to an inclusive strategic vision and plan, implementing transformative actions to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030, with a commitment to leaving no one or place behind.
A press release issued in connection with the event stated, “This direction aligns with Madinah’s human-centered smart city strategy, focusing on building a vibrant community with the objective of improving people’s quality of life in Madinah and enriching its visitors’ experiences in a sustainable manner.”
The collaborative efforts of various stakeholders, including the government, private sector, and non-profit entities, were lauded as instrumental in achieving this milestone. The press release emphasized that the collective endeavor is a manifestation of the exemplary care extended by the government of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to the Madinah region, in line with the objectives of the Saudi Vision 2030.
Madinah’s ascent to the Gold Level in the Sustainable Development Goals Cities program is a testament to the city’s commitment to sustainable growth, community well-being, and aligning with global standards for urban development. The achievement positions Madinah as a pioneering city on the international stage in the pursuit of sustainable urban living.
