Crown Prince Launches Saudi Architecture Map

Saudi Arabia’s Architecture Map: A New Era of Cultural Heritage and Modernization
Saudi Arabia is stepping up its architectural game with an exciting new initiative, the Saudi Architecture Map, that aims to create 34,000 jobs.
Saudi Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman, has officially launched the Saudi Architecture Characters Map, showcasing 19 unique architectural styles that reflect the Kingdom’s rich geographical and cultural tapestry.
This new map will establish design guidelines for each region, helping to preserve and celebrate the unique architectural styles that make Saudi so special.
A Commitment to Cultural Heritage and Modernization
The initiative is not just about aesthetics; it’s a commitment to celebrating Saudi Arabia’s architectural heritage while modernizing urban spaces as part of Vision 2030. As the Chairman of the Supreme Committee for Saudi Architectural Design Guidelines, the Crown Prince emphasized that Saudi architecture marries tradition with modern design.
Boosting Tourism and Economic Growth
The initiative aims to make cities more attractive to tourists, boosting sectors like tourism, hospitality, and construction. By 2030, the project is expected to contribute over SAR8 billion ($2.1 billion) to Saudi’s GDP and create thousands of direct and indirect jobs in engineering, construction, and urban development. Flexibility is key here, with developers provided guidelines that accommodate modern materials without hefty costs.
Regional Architectural Styles
Each of the 19 architectural styles comes with three design typographies—traditional, transitional, and contemporary—encouraging creativity while respecting local authenticity. These styles include:
- Central Najdi
- Northern Najdi
- Tabuk Coast
- Madinah Rural
- Inner Madinah
- Hejazi Coast
- Taif Highlands
- Sarawat Mountains
- Aseer Escarpment
- Tuhama Foothills
- Tuhama Coast
- Farasan Islands
- Abha Highlands
- Bisha Desert
- Najran
- Al Ahsa Oasis
- Al Qatif Oasis
- East Coast
- Eastern Najdi
The first phase of implementation will kick off in Al Ahsa, Taif, Makkah, and Abha, focusing on major projects and government buildings.
Conclusion
In short, Saudi is not just building structures; it’s developing a vibrant and coherent urban identity that honors its past while looking toward the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Saudi Architecture Map?
- The Saudi Architecture Map is an initiative launched by Saudi Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman, showcasing 19 unique architectural styles that reflect the Kingdom’s rich geographical and cultural tapestry.
- What are the goals of the Saudi Architecture Map?
- The initiative aims to create 34,000 jobs, contribute SAR8 billion ($2.1 billion) to Saudi’s GDP, and boost sectors like tourism, hospitality, and construction.
- What are the design typographies for each architectural style?
- Each style comes with three design typographies—traditional, transitional, and contemporary—encouraging creativity while respecting local authenticity.