Publications
(Re)Connecting Maritime Heritage: Urban Resilience and Waterfront Developments Within the Peripheries of World Heritage Sites
State-led waterfront developments in the Gulf region, while aiming to reconnect maritime heritage with World Heritage Sites (WHSs), often fall short on social integration and climate adaptation, undermining urban resilience. A comparative study of Historic Jeddah and Muharraq, Bahrain, using an expanded Comprehensive Waterfront Development Index (CWDI) framework—now comprising eight dimensions—revealed that these projects, though integrating key CWDI aspects, lack sufficient social cohesion and climate adaptability. This finding highlights a critical gap in sustainable development within rapidly transforming WHS peripheries, challenging the narrative of waterfront developments as mere extensions of heritage assets.
Coastal public realms and housing livability in Saudi cities: developing a comprehensive waterfront development index (CWDI) for Jeddah
A novel Comprehensive Waterfront Development Index (CWDI) reveals a 'two-speed' waterfront in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, with newly redeveloped zones excelling in public amenities and accessibility but lagging in resilience and environmental sustainability. The study highlights critical gaps in solar adoption, cooling infrastructure, and flood risk mitigation, particularly impacting vulnerable historic communities like Al Balad. By integrating global urban evaluation frameworks with context-specific indicators tailored to Jeddah's hot-arid climate, the CWDI offers a transferable tool for Gulf cities to assess coastal public realms and advance Vision 2030 goals. This approach empowers municipal governance with actionable insights for planning future coastal housing projects.
Evaluating Gemini 2.5 Flash Image for Architectural Heritage Documentation in Historic Al-Balad, Jeddah
A study evaluating Gemini 2.5 Flash Image, a generative AI tool, reveals its potential in reconstructing masked architectural elements of historic buildings in Al-Balad, Jeddah, with acceptable visual coherence for Hejazi elements like Roshan and Mangour, as well as façade textures. However, the AI struggles with highly intricate wood latticework and subtle depth variations. The research employed field documentation, controlled masking tests, and expert evaluations to assess accuracy and stylistic coherence, concluding that while generative AI can aid heritage documentation, outputs must be rigorously validated against reliable references. This work contributes to the broader effort of integrating AI into heritage preservation in Saudi Arabia.
Assessing Walking Routes for Wheelchair Accessibility at a Historic District in Saudi Arabia to Enhance Social Sustainability
A study assessing wheelchair accessibility in the UNESCO-listed Historic Jeddah District reveals significant barriers to physical access, with route crossing signals and connectivity scoring lowest. Researchers developed a 14-indicator checklist and observation strategy to evaluate 14 walking routes, highlighting inconsistent compliance with accessibility standards. The findings underscore the need for improved regulations to enhance social sustainability and equal access in historic urban spaces. This practical method offers a cost-effective approach for other heritage sites worldwide to prioritize wheelchair inclusion.
Challenges Facing People with Disabilities in Historic Jeddah
Historic Jeddah, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2014 and a vital gateway to the Two Holy Mosques, faces significant challenges in ensuring accessibility for people with disabilities (PWD) despite its global appeal. This study identifies key barriers that hinder PWD from fully engaging in heritage tourism, threatening inclusive access to this culturally rich site. Through semi-structured interviews with 21 participants and field observations supplemented by photographic evidence, the research reveals systemic issues that disproportionately affect disabled visitors. Addressing these challenges is critical not only for upholding universal tourism rights but also for aligning with Saudi Vision 2030's goals to enhance accessibility in heritage tourism. The findings underscore the urgent need for policy interventions and infrastructure improvements to make Historic Jeddah a truly inclusive destination.
Wayfinding Signage in Jeddah Historic Site (Al-Balad): A Comprehensive Study into its Ability to Reflect Historical and Cultural Values
Despite significant efforts by authorities, current wayfinding signage in Jeddah's historic district (Al-Balad) fails to fully reflect the region's cultural and historical identity. A comprehensive study analyzing six key directional sign elements reveals a lack of visual cohesion that hinders both heritage preservation and visitor experience. The research suggests implementing a unified, durable design system that integrates traditional aesthetics with modern wayfinding principles—enhancing cultural representation while ensuring long-term functionality. This approach could transform Al-Balad into a more intuitive and culturally resonant destination for tourists.
Balancing Globalization and Heritage Conservation in Gulf Cities: Case Studies from Doha and Jeddah
Globalization and heritage conservation in Gulf cities, including Historic Jeddah, are not opposing forces but can coexist to create a globally attractive urban product. This study challenges the notion that modernization inherently conflicts with preserving historic sites by analyzing case studies from Doha and Jeddah. It reveals that both approaches aim to appeal to transnational elites and attract investment, while effective policies and management strategies can ensure the continuity of historic sites without stifling urban growth. The research emphasizes the need for a thorough investigative method to navigate these complex circumstances, suggesting that global interdependence, when coupled with appropriate actions, can positively influence both macro- and micro-urban changes.
Disentangling eukaryotic biodiversity patterns from man‐made environments (port and marina) and nearby coral reefs in the Red Sea: A focus on the surveillance of non‐indigenous species
A study in the central Red Sea reveals that man-made environments, such as ports and marinas, serve as significant gateways for marine non-indigenous species (mNIS), with Jeddah port hosting 28 mNIS, including 16 newly reported in the region. Using DNA metabarcoding, researchers analyzed spatio-temporal trends of biological pioneer communities across a port, marina, and coral reefs over one-week colonization periods, employing two matrices: PVC panels and water samples. The findings indicate that coral reef communities exhibit greater similarity to each other than to those in artificial habitats, underscoring the distinct biodiversity patterns between natural and man-made environments. This research establishes a standardized baseline for monitoring introduced species, particularly in data-poor regions like the Red Sea, a critical shipping corridor. It also highlights the potential for early detection of non-indigenous species, providing foundational data for biosecurity programs.
Jeddah strategic approaches to sustainable urban development and vision 2030 alignment
Jeddah, Saudi Arabia's historic port city, stands as a model for sustainable urban development, aligning its growth with the ambitious goals of Saudi Vision 2030. This study reveals how Jeddah's strategic geographical position—serving as both a maritime and pilgrimage gateway—has shaped its urban trajectory since the seventh century. By analyzing demographic trends, economic dynamics, and governance frameworks, researchers identify key challenges such as rapid population growth and infrastructure demands, while also highlighting innovative solutions like strategic planning and sustainable initiatives. The research underscores Jeddah's potential as a case study for balancing modernization with environmental sustainability in rapidly urbanizing regions.
Makkah's hinterworlds: Jeddah, the Indian Ocean Hajj, and Southeast Asia
Historic Jeddah, the 'Gate to Makkah,' is increasingly redeveloped under Saudi Vision 2030, despite its rich vernacular urban patterns and historic significance. This review essay highlights three key works that explore Jeddah's role in global pilgrimage networks, its Ottoman and British colonial legacies, and the experiences of Indonesian migrants—both pilgrims and laborers—in the Arab world. The studies reveal how Jeddah's urban transformation, marked by large-scale demolitions and forced evictions, contrasts with its historical cosmopolitanism and resilience. They also underscore the complex interplay between imperial histories, mobility, and contemporary urban development in the Hijaz region.
Strategies for the Preservation of Historic Areas within Existing Middle Eastern Cities: The Case of Historic Jeddah
Historic Jeddah, once neglected due to rapid modernization and economic shifts, faces ongoing challenges in preserving its architectural heritage. The study highlights that while initial preservation efforts, such as those led by Robert Matthew in the 1980s, proposed strategies like restoration or replacement, Saudi Arabia's '2030 Vision' program lacks a clear master plan for redevelopment. This has resulted in unplanned removals of slum areas and expropriation without defined future use, risking the loss of historic value. The research evaluates current preservation strategies to identify their effectiveness and potential future contributions to sustainable urban development while maintaining cultural integrity.
Sustainable Tourism Development in Jeddah: Protecting Cultural Heritage While Promoting Travel Destination
Historic Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, faces significant challenges and opportunities as it transitions from a predominantly religious and business-focused destination to a global travel hub. Research reveals that while tourism has spurred economic growth and enriched travel experiences, it also threatens cultural heritage authenticity and sustainability due to overtourism and limited services. Qualitative analysis, including 15 in-depth interviews and on-field observations, underscores the need for balanced management strategies that prioritize heritage conservation alongside sustainable development. This study highlights the tension between preserving Jeddah's unique identity and meeting the demands of emerging tourism, offering insights critical for other UNESCO World Heritage Sites navigating similar transitions.
Using deep learning for enrichment of heritage BIM: Al Radwan house in historic Jeddah as a case study
A novel deep learning approach enhances the digitization of historic building geometry, addressing key challenges in heritage Building Information Modeling (BIM). By integrating laser scanner and unmanned aerial vehicle imagery data, researchers developed a scan-to-HBIM workflow that significantly improves the interpretation of spatial weathering forms and façade degradation. This method reduces subjective decision-making and resource demands while creating an HBIM library for Saudi Hijazi architectural elements. Applied to Al Radwan house in historic Jeddah—a UNESCO World Heritage site—this study provides stakeholders with a tool to identify, monitor, and analyze the types and extent of façade degradation, offering valuable insights for conservation efforts.
Environmental and cultural sustainability of the architectural elements of two historical mosques in historic Jeddah
A comparative analysis of two historical mosques in Jeddah—Al-Shafi’i and Al-Mimar—reveals effective strategies for environmental, cultural, and economic sustainability. The study highlights that rebuilding using existing materials, minimizing waste, and employing traditional wooden windows (Roshan) to reduce solar radiation significantly enhance environmental sustainability. Culturally, the mosques serve as pioneering centers for community engagement, increasing worshipper participation and social interaction in Jeddah’s historical area. Economically, the projects generate revenue through commercial activities, create job opportunities for local youth, and inspire similar initiatives that align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals. The research underscores the importance of integrating sustainability practices into heritage conservation while fostering economic development and social cohesion.
Exploring the Quality of Open Public Spaces in Historic Jeddah
A study assessing the quality of public spaces in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, reveals significant variability in their compliance with international standards. Using the Public Space Index (PSI), researchers evaluated physical, social, and environmental factors, identifying challenges related to accessibility, safety, and diversity. Findings indicate that while some areas meet global benchmarks, others fall short, highlighting critical gaps in urban livability and sustainability. The study recommends enhancing maintenance, incorporating more green spaces and public amenities, and improving accessibility and safety measures. These insights offer actionable strategies for policymakers and urban planners to elevate Jeddah's public spaces, contributing to its long-term habitability and cultural vibrancy.
Improving The Urban Qualities Of Historic Streets in Jeddah
Historic Jeddah's Al-Balad streets hold significant potential to enhance urban vitality and user experience, yet current conservation policies fall short of addressing qualitative improvements. A study combining qualitative and quantitative methods—including the Measuring Urban Qualities technique, GIS Pro 2.8 software, and user surveys—reveals that while these streets offer a rich foundation for memorable urban experiences, existing conservation efforts prioritize environmental preservation over experiential quality. The findings underscore an urgent need to refocus conservation strategies on qualitative urban enhancement to better align with community perceptions and future heritage preservation goals.
Rebuilding Port Infrastructure Heritage in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
A sustainable approach to restoring historic port infrastructure can harmonize economic growth, water management, and cultural identity while accommodating modern urban development. This study demonstrates that such restoration projects, exemplified by an ongoing initiative in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, can address the dual challenges of preserving heritage and ensuring resilience against rapid urban change. By integrating interdisciplinary strategies—balancing sustainability, economic feasibility, and tourism—the project offers a model for water and heritage management in areas undergoing commercial exploitation. The findings suggest that strategic collaboration between developers and government stakeholders can mitigate negative impacts on historic port infrastructure while enhancing human well-being.
Sustainable-Oriented Development for Urban Interface of Historic Centers
A significant disparity exists between the historic urban fabric of Jeddah and its surrounding, often demolished, areas. This study identified distinct physical characteristics that differentiate these urban fabrics, particularly highlighting the deterioration of adjacent zones. By analyzing six growth phases of Jeddah, researchers developed a classification framework to guide sustainable development at the urban interface. The findings underscore the need for design guidelines that ensure homogeneity, integration, and sustainability in historic centers, aiming to create livable and cohesive urban environments without compromising historical integrity.
A Proposed Model of Assessing the Adaptive Reuse of Heritage Buildings in Historic Jeddah
A proposed model for assessing the adaptive reuse of heritage buildings in Historic Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, has been developed to preserve architectural integrity and sustainability. The model evaluates both tangible and intangible elements of cultural heritage, ensuring periodic assessment to maintain authenticity during reuse. It incorporates building information, criteria for restoration, repair, and intangible heritage aspects that enhance livelihoods. Validated by five regional architectural heritage specialists, the model aims to guide preservation efforts and inform decision-making on whether to continue or halt activities in reused historical buildings.
Current Trends in Urban Heritage Conservation: Medieval Historic Arab City Centers
A shift towards urban vitality and sustainability in historic Arab city centers has shown promise, but traditional conservation efforts have largely failed to address key issues. This study identifies critical challenges such as building reuse, traffic congestion, and funding shortages, while highlighting the impact of innovative urban management on heritage quality. Through a comparative analysis of Jeddah and Amman, it reveals that pedestrian-friendly spaces, cultural events, job creation through heritage, and stricter urban regulations can significantly enhance the image and functionality of historic areas. The research offers an assessment framework for evaluating conserved urban heritage and provides actionable recommendations for conservation authorities to engage residents, improve mobility, and attract visitors.
Sustainable Conservation and Reuse of Historical City Center Applied Study on Jeddah—Saudi Arabia
A proposed project for the adaptive reuse of historic buildings in Jeddah's city center could reverse social changes and enhance sustainability, according to a new study. The research highlights that resettling the original community in these heritage buildings is crucial for sustainable conservation, as it increases real estate value and fosters appreciation for local heritage. The study employed theoretical, analytical, and applied approaches, including surveys of stakeholders, to evaluate the project's potential. It found that engaging the local community in adaptive reuse strategies is key to achieving long-term sustainability and preserving Jeddah's historic character.
The tangible and intangible cultural heritage of the traditional houses in the historical area of Jeddah and its relationship to cultural sustainability
Traditional houses in Jeddah's historic district embody architectural principles that are deeply intertwined with social practices, such as celebrations, offering insights into the region's cultural sustainability. This study identifies key design characteristics of these houses and their role in preserving intangible heritage, while also providing guidelines for contemporary homes to adapt these practices in modern contexts. By analyzing well-documented occasions through a descriptive-analytical approach, the research bridges tangible and intangible heritage, aiming to protect traditional structures from destruction while ensuring cultural continuity. The findings underscore the importance of integrating historical architectural elements into sustainable urban development.
The Violent Remaking of Jeddah
A large-scale urban renewal project in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, is rapidly transforming the city's historic quarters, displacing immigrant and working-class populations with minimal warning or compensation. The initiative aims to modernize Jeddah as part of a national economic strategy but risks erasing its unique cosmopolitan identity. While the project introduces new districts, it lacks adequate housing alternatives for displaced residents, raising concerns about social equity and cultural preservation in this Red Sea port city.
A History of Jeddah: The Gateway to Mecca in the Nineteenth and Twentieth Centuries
Jeddah, known as 'ghayr' (different) in Saudi Arabia, serves as the historic gateway to Mecca, embodying a unique blend of Muslim conviviality and cultural identity. This study challenges traditional notions of cosmopolitanism by focusing on Jeddah's processes of living with difference, rather than strategies that reify hierarchies. It reveals how Jeddah's urban development, social structures, and governance have mediated belonging and foreignness, particularly in the context of pilgrimage and trade. The research employs a richly textured urban history approach, analyzing historical documents, population dynamics, and urban space to explore Jeddah's role as a Muslim city that balances roots and connections. It highlights the city's resistance to foreign intervention, its unique architectural and social functions, and the impact of modernization on its conviviality. The study also examines contemporary challenges, including the shift from pilgrimage as a material and social fabric to tourism, the increasing presence of the state, and the decline of communal donations and guilds in urban life.
Are Historical Buildings More Adaptive to Minimize the Risks of Airborne Transmission of Viruses and Public Health? A Study of the Hazzazi House in Jeddah (Saudi Arabia)
Historical buildings, such as the Hazzazi House in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, demonstrate significant potential to mitigate airborne virus transmission through natural ventilation. A study published in International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health found that effective air ventilation in heritage structures can substantially reduce the risks of spreading infectious viruses like COVID-19. The research integrated data on wind speed, direction, inflow/outflow, and natural ventilation to model disease transmission risks, revealing that well-designed historic buildings inherently offer advantages for public health during pandemics. This insight underscores the importance of preserving traditional architectural features, particularly those facilitating airflow, as a strategy to combat infectious diseases in urban environments.
Conception and Implementation of Geographical Database for Cultural Heritage Management—Case of Historical Jeddah, KSA
A spatial database combining historical maps, field surveys, and GIS technology has been successfully developed to document and protect the architectural heritage of Al-Balad, Jeddah's historic district. This tool, integrated with photographic surveys and historical data, enables users to explore and learn about Old Jeddah's cultural significance through a mobile application. The research addresses critical challenges in preserving UNESCO-listed sites by providing a systematic approach to mapping and managing cultural heritage, aligning with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 goals for sustainable tourism development.
Evaluation of the Integration of the Traditional Architectural Element Mashrabiya into the Ventilation Strategy for Buildings in Hot Climates
A study on the traditional architectural element mashrabiya in Historic Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, found that opening these lattice structures during hot summer months can significantly improve indoor thermal comfort. The research demonstrated that open mashrabiyas reduced indoor temperatures by up to 2.4 °C compared to closed ones, while also stabilizing indoor air temperature fluctuations between 2.1 °C and 4.2 °C—far less than the outdoor range of 9.4 °C to 16 °C. The findings suggest that integrating mashrabiyas with modern passive cooling techniques could enhance their effectiveness in hot climates, though further research is needed to explore different configurations, materials, and climatic conditions.
Integration of Laser Scanner and Photogrammetry for Heritage BIM Enhancement
A novel integration of laser scanning (TLS) and photogrammetry enhances the accuracy and completeness of Heritage Building Information Modeling (HBIM), addressing critical challenges in digital heritage documentation. The study demonstrates that combining TLS for structural reconstruction with photogrammetry—particularly effective for surface details, radiometric data, and irregular objects—yields superior 3D textured models. Hybrid workflows, tested at two historic sites (Matbouli House Museum in UNESCO-listed Historic Jeddah and Asfan Castle), show that TLS excels in capturing basic shapes while photogrammetry refines geometry and parametric tracing, even on complex facades or shadowed terrains. By leveraging ICP algorithms for data registration, the approach achieves reliable BIM mapping of intricate architectural elements, offering a scalable solution for heritage preservation.
Sustainability Features of Jeddah Traditional Housing
Jeddah's traditional housing exemplifies sustainability through innovative design and construction practices that efficiently address the hot-humid climate, social norms, and economic needs. The urban layout features narrow walkways and shaded intersections, fostering pedestrian movement and communication while reducing heat exposure. Buildings, constructed from thermally insulating coral stone blocks with reflective white finishes, minimize heat absorption. Large wooden latticed windows regulate ventilation, daylight entry, and privacy, while rainwater harvesting systems demonstrate resource efficiency. This study synthesizes long-standing academic insights on Jeddah's traditional housing, supported by evidence, to propose guidelines for sustainable urban development. The findings highlight the potential of historic architectural practices to inform modern sustainable design solutions.
The Use of Interactive Virtual BIM to Boost Virtual Tourism in Heritage Sites, Historic Jeddah
Interactive virtual Building Information Modeling (BIM) significantly enhances the preservation and exploration of heritage sites, as demonstrated by its application to the Zainal Historical House (Bayt Zainal) in Jeddah's historic district. This study reveals that integrating 3D reality-captured data—such as point cloud scans—with BIM creates a dynamic platform for cultural tourism, enabling users to engage with historical structures while accessing rich contextual information like photographs, material documents, and restoration records. The research bridges gaps in architectural knowledge by documenting hybrid structural systems (e.g., combining steel/concrete with traditional 'Mangbi' stone techniques), offering a scalable model for heritage management that leverages virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). By focusing on Bayt Zainal—a key historical building—this approach sets a precedent for digitizing and preserving complex, culturally significant sites globally.
A Comparison Study for the Thermal and Physical Properties between “Al-Mangabi” and the Available Building Materials for the External Walls in Jeddah
Al-Mangabi stone, a traditional coral-based material used in Jeddah's vernacular architecture, demonstrates exceptional thermal efficiency comparable to modern cavity walls with insulation. This study reveals that Al-Mangabi can significantly reduce energy consumption for cooling in hot, arid climates while also serving aesthetic purposes as cladding. Researchers analyzed its physical and numerical properties through historical review, comparative experiments, and thermal performance testing against common building materials in Jeddah. Findings highlight its potential to revitalize sustainable construction practices by leveraging indigenous materials with proven climate-resilient qualities.
A Qualitative Approach to Identifying Structural Deficiencies and Damages in Timber Reinforced Masonry Buildings at Historic Jeddah and Their Causes
Historic Jeddah's timber-reinforced masonry buildings exhibit widespread structural deficiencies and damages, threatening their sustainability. A qualitative study identified common patterns of instability in multiple-leaf stone masonry walls, shallow foundations, and flat timber ceilings through intensive surveys and visual inspections. Key causes of these issues were analyzed to inform conservation strategies. The research highlights the critical need for understanding original construction techniques to address deficiencies effectively.
Creating a Lovable and Livable Public Place: A Method for Augmenting Contemporary Behaviour Settings in “World Heritage List” Historic Jeddah (Albalad), Saudi Arabia
Historic Jeddah (AlBalad) can be revitalized to become a vibrant part of contemporary urban life by integrating modern amenities and services while preserving its historic fabric. A study led by the Department of Landscape Architecture at King Abdulaziz University demonstrated that adaptive reuse of lower-category buildings and open spaces—previously overlooked in local preservation classifications—can sustain social and cultural activity, enhancing longevity and sustainability. The research involved gathering public input on desired contemporary functions and matching them to pre-categorized historic sites, revealing strong community interest in rediscovering AlBalad. This approach offers a scalable model for balancing heritage conservation with modern urban needs, particularly relevant to Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 initiatives.
Experimental Evaluation of Consolidation Techniques of Fossiliferous Limestone in Masonry Walls of Heritage Buildings at Historic Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Recent experimental research demonstrates that consolidating fossiliferous limestone—commonly used in masonry walls of historic Jeddah, Saudi Arabia—significantly enhances its mechanical properties when treated with nano-lime or Wacker OH-100. The study found that both treatments improved bulk density and reduced water absorption, with nano-lime showing promise at varying concentrations (IP5, E25, E50). Using advanced microscopy and X-ray diffraction, the research confirmed microstructural changes post-treatment, offering a scientific basis for preserving heritage buildings. This work addresses critical gaps in structural conservation by focusing on material science rather than architectural or urban studies.
Lighting Design in Two Mosque Typologies in the City of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Lighting design in mosques significantly influences the psychological, physiological, and behavioral responses of visitors, with both daylighting and artificial lighting playing critical roles. A study analyzing two mosque typologies—Al-Shafi'i Mosque (historic) and Al-Farsi Mosque (contemporary)—in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, revealed that their interior lighting strategies reflect distinct cultural and climatic adaptations while maintaining alignment with the Qibla direction. The research highlights how these design techniques enhance the spiritual experience and identity of mosques, offering insights into the interplay between architecture, light, and human perception in sacred spaces.
Multiscientific Approach for the Characterization and Assessment of the Degradation State of the Historical Al-Shafi'i Mosque Walls (Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia)
A multiscience approach reveals the degradation state of Al-Shafi'i Mosque's historic walls in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The study identified fossiliferous limestone and coral stone with mud-lime mortar as key construction materials, providing critical data for targeted conservation efforts. Using a combination of physical, mechanical, mineralogical, chemical, petrographic, and morphological analyses—including visual inspection, microscopy (OM, PM), SEM-EDX, and XRD—the research offers a comprehensive assessment of the mosque's structural integrity. These findings are pivotal for planning effective preservation measures to safeguard this UNESCO-listed heritage site.
Review of UNESCO’s World Heritage Nomination Files (WHNF), Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Heritage Building Information Modelling (HBIM)
Historic Jeddah, 'Gate to Makkah,' demonstrates how Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Heritage BIM (HBIM) can enhance UNESCO World Heritage nominations by improving documentation and project management. The study highlights the importance of meeting UNESCO's criteria for Outstanding Universal Value, which includes cultural significance and conservation challenges. By analyzing Jeddah’s nomination file, the research underscores BIM’s potential to streamline heritage preservation efforts, benefiting stakeholders such as architects, engineers, and site managers. This approach supports UNESCO’s mission by ensuring accurate, sustainable, and culturally sensitive conservation practices.
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