Publications
Balancing heritage and modernization: the challenges and opportunities of cultural heritage conservation in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is developing a hybrid heritage-governance model that successfully integrates conservation with modernization, offering valuable lessons for other rapidly transforming contexts. This approach combines centralized strategic direction with distributed institutional and community roles, as demonstrated by case studies in Al-Turaif District (Diriyah) and Al-Ahsa Oasis. While progress has been made in institutional reform, heritage documentation, and international collaboration, gaps remain in formal community participation, intangible heritage transmission, inter-agency coordination, and the verification of economic and technological outcomes. The study recommends stronger coordination mechanisms, accountable community co-management, and closer alignment between tourism development, conservation funding, and local benefit to further enhance this model.
Heritage Tourism Beyond World Heritage Sites: Urban Development of Al-Diriyah Through the Lens of the Experience Economy Model
Al-Diriyah's urban development, following its 2010 World Heritage Site inscription, exemplifies a balanced integration of the Experience Economy Model (EEM), with Wadi Safar poised to become the first heritage-led district globally to encompass all four experiential dimensions. This study reveals that while At-Turaif engages two EEM realms and broader Al-Diriyah incorporates three, Wadi Safar's planned luxury-driven mixed-use development aims for full immersion, blending active/passive participation and absorption. Employing a qualitative-case study methodology from 2010 to 2030, the research demonstrates how heritage-oriented experiences can drive economic diversification, aligning with KSA Vision 2030 goals.
The restorative role of traditional architecture: psychological well-being in heritage spaces
Traditional architecture, exemplified by At-Turaif District in Diriyah, Saudi Arabia, significantly enhances psychological well-being through restorative effects comparable to natural settings. A study involving 25 participants demonstrated that heritage environments promote relaxation, positive affect, and reduced stress more effectively than modern urban spaces, with large effect sizes (PRS, d = 1.35; PSS, d = 0.92). Cultural familiarity further amplified these benefits, particularly for Saudis, highlighting the role of identity and belonging in psychological restoration. The research, grounded in Attention Restoration Theory (ART) and Stress Recovery Theory (SRT), employed a within-subjects design with surveys, behavioral observations, and interviews to provide proof-of-concept evidence. These findings underscore the potential of heritage environments as urban resources for well-being, offering insights for conservation and urban planning aligned with Saudi Vision 2030.
Digital Architectural Heritage in Saudi Arabia: An Integrated Model for Documentation and Preservation
An integrated model for digital documentation and preservation of Saudi Arabia's architectural heritage has been developed, combining Heritage Building Information Modelling (HBIM), 3D laser scanning, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). This approach bridges the gap between advanced digital tools and conservation strategies, ensuring sustainable protection of traditional Najdi mud houses, Islamic-era structures, and modern historical landmarks. Case studies from Al-Balad Historic Jeddah, Diriyah’s At-Turaif District, and Al-Qassim demonstrate its effectiveness in capturing high-resolution 3D data while fostering stakeholder collaboration. The model contributes significantly to preserving Saudi cultural identity for future generations.
Features of the preservation and redevelopment of the architectural environment of the historical quarters of a large city in the conditions of a functioning center (using the example of Riyadh)
A balanced approach to preserving historical integrity while integrating modern amenities can successfully revitalize historic urban districts, as demonstrated by the Diriyah Project in Riyadh. This initiative aims to transform Al-Turaif, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former capital of the first Saudi state, into a world-class cultural and tourist hub. The project focuses on restoring historic sites—such as mud-brick structures—and developing infrastructure like museums, galleries, and entertainment venues to attract visitors without compromising historical authenticity. By studying Diriyah's redevelopment, researchers highlight the feasibility of blending heritage conservation with contemporary urban development in functioning city centers.
From Heritage to Commerce: Utilizing Space Syntax to Optimize Visibility for Retail interior design in Al-Turaif’s Touristic Landscape
Enhancing spatial visibility in heritage tourism settings can significantly boost cultural authenticity, visitor engagement, and commercial performance without compromising traditional aesthetics. This study demonstrates that strategic integration of Najdi interior design concepts into Culture Concept Stores—guided by Space Syntax theory (isovist analysis, axial mapping, and Visibility Graph Analysis)—optimizes retail functionality while preserving the architectural identity of Al-Turaif district in Saudi Arabia. The research reveals a direct correlation between improved visibility and visitor demand, offering a practical framework for urban designers and heritage managers to balance cultural preservation with economic viability. By analyzing macro-level visitor patterns and micro-level interior connectivity, the study provides actionable insights for sustainable tourism development.
Determining Artificial Lighting Criteria for Traditional Mud Buildings and Their Impact on Aesthetic Values and Functional Aspects (A Case Study: Historical At-Turaif District)
A study on the At-Turaif District in ad-Dir'iyah revealed that traditional mud buildings benefit from higher illuminance and warm color temperatures for outdoor lighting, enhancing both aesthetic and functional values. Unlike other heritage structures, mud buildings lack standardized lighting guidelines, so researchers developed criteria through a mixed-methods approach—combining qualitative site observations with quantitative simulations and participant questionnaires. The findings suggest that warmer light (lower correlated color temperature) and increased brightness improve visual clarity while preserving the cultural integrity of these historic sites. This work provides a reference for future lighting standards in mud heritage conservation, offering practical insights for UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Conservation of Earth Vernacular Settlements. A Case Study of El-Dakhla Oasis, Egypt
Dedication to key factors—such as training local inhabitants, enabling community participation, and activating civil institutions—ensures the successful conservation of earth vernacular settlements. This study identifies these critical elements through a comparative analysis of El-Dakhla Oasis (Egypt) alongside At-Turaif District in ad-Dir'iyah (Saudi Arabia) and Kasr of Ait-Ben-Haddou (Morocco), regions facing similar challenges of neglect and policy incoherence. By adopting an inductive approach, the research evaluates conservation strategies while avoiding past errors, emphasizing sustainable preservation methods that preserve cultural identity, economic resources, and local development. The findings underscore the necessity of integrating community-driven initiatives into heritage conservation plans.
The Heritage Jewel of Saudi Arabia: A Descriptive Analysis of the Heritage Management and Development Activities in the At-Turaif District in Ad-Dir’iyah, a World Heritage Site (WHS)
Historic Diriyah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (WHS), demonstrates the potential for successful large-scale development while preserving visual integrity and site authenticity through sustainable heritage management. The study reveals that the site's inscription has significantly influenced national identity, tourism, and Saudi Arabia's development agenda. Using a mixed-method approach—including temporal analysis, historical image comparison, non-participant observation, semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders, fieldwork, archival research, and document analysis—the research evaluates the site’s physical, social, and economic transformations across three critical periods. The findings underscore the importance of balancing development with heritage preservation, offering valuable insights for policymakers on integrating WHS into broader national visions.
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