The city's strengths include health and safety, mobility, and governance.

Basic sanitation is effective, recycling sectors are satisfactory, and public safety is strong with enhanced surveillance through CCTV cameras.

Innovative apps for car-sharing, parking availability, and bicycle rentals help alleviate congestion.

Medical services meet expectations, and affordable housing options are readily available.

However, public transport services are only satisfactory.

Residents actively participate in decision-making processes and provide valuable feedback on government projects.

Al-Khobar, a city in Saudi Arabia, has been recognized as a smart city, ranking 99th out of 142 municipalities in the IMD Smart City Index.

This achievement makes it the fifth Saudi metropolis to adopt innovative city initiatives, including Riyadh, Makkah, Madinah, and Jeddah.

Being included in the index positions Al-Khobar to attract global investments, establish new companies and projects, and stimulate economic growth.

This progress aligns with Saudi Vision 2030 and demonstrates the Kingdom's dedication to advancement in the sector.

The IMD's Smart City Index assesses city development through various aspects, such as health and safety, employment and education opportunities, mobility, cultural activities, governance, and the harmonization of economic, technological, and human life dimensions.

Smart cities use digital technology to efficiently use resources, reduce carbon emissions, and meet citizens' needs.

The text mentions the rankings of Makkah (52nd), Jeddah (55th), and Madinah (74th) on this list.

Omar Al-Abdullatif, CEO of the Sharqia Development Authority, is proud of Saudi Arabia's achievement, crediting it to the country's overall development under strong leadership and the Eastern Province governor's guidance.