Implementing Sustainability in Urban Desert Regions Through Solar Orientation, The Islamic Vernacular Architecture of the M'zab Ksour in Particular

Traditional Islamic architecture in the M'Zab Valley's Ksour demonstrates how solar orientation can create sustainable urban environments in desert regions. A geometric analysis of road systems in three Ksour—El Atheuf, Beni Yezguen, and Tafilalet—revealed that optimal lane alignment mitigates extreme insolation while enhancing pedestrian comfort. Statistical comparisons showed that historical Ksour (El Atheuf and Beni Yezguen) excel at integrating climatic challenges, offering a model for resilient urban design in arid climates. This study highlights the potential of merging traditional knowledge with modern practices to advance sustainable development in desert cities.

Dahmani, K., Aouissi, K. B., & Chettah, S. E. (2024). Implementing Sustainability in Urban Desert Regions Through Solar Orientation, The Islamic Vernacular Architecture of the M’zab Ksour in Particular. Journal of Islamic Architecture, 8(2), 408–422. https://doi.org/10.18860/jia.v8i2.25531