Saudi Arabia has officially launched the Saudi Architecture Characters Map, featuring 19 distinct architectural styles inspired by the Kingdom’s diverse geographical and cultural characteristics.
“Saudi architecture blends our rich heritage with contemporary design thinking. We are enhancing urban landscapes and quality of life as well as building an architectural framework that balances the past and the present. This model will serve as a global source of inspiration for innovation in architectural design,” noted Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman in his capacity as Chairman of the Supreme Committee for Saudi Architectural Design Guidelines.
He added that, “Saudi architecture will indirectly contribute to economic growth by making our cities more attractive to visitors and tourists, which will stimulate sectors such as tourism, hospitality and construction. It also envisions a future where our cities and communities thrive.”
The initiative is intended to help preserve Saudi Arabia’s architectural identity, enhance urban quality of life, and moderne cityscapes in line with Vision 2030. The Architecture Characters Map hopes to provide developers with guidelines that allow for modern building materials without imposing additional financial burdens.
The map stipulates 19 architectural styles inspired by geographical, natural and cultural characteristics, derived from urban and historical studies of building traditions passed down through generations. 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 and Eastern Najdi.
Each of the 19 architectural styles offers three design typographies: traditional, transitional and contemporary – encouraging creative expression while preserving the authenticity of local architecture.
Implementation of the map will unfold in a phased manner with the first phase focusing on al-Ahsa, Taif, Makkah and Abha. Initial applications will target major projects, government buildings and commercial structures.
Additionally, the guidelines hope to empower local talent and contribute significantly to the economy. By 2030, it is expected to add over $2 billion to the Kingdom’s cumulative GDP and create more than 34,000 direct and indirect job opportunities across engineering, construction and urban development sectors.
