Saudi Arabia unveils Architecture Characters Map to generate 34,000 jobs

18/03/2025 05:04 AST

Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has launched the Saudi Architecture Characters Map, a visionary initiative featuring 19 distinct architectural styles inspired by the Kingdom's diverse geographical and cultural heritage.

The initiative underscores Saudi Arabia's commitment to preserving its architectural identity, enhancing urban quality of life, and modernizing cityscapes in line with Vision 2030.

As Chairman of the Supreme Committee for Saudi Architectural Design Guidelines, the Crown Prince emphasised that Saudi Architecture reflects the Kingdom's rich cultural and geographical diversity.

He highlighted the importance of sustainable urban planning, which integrates traditional design elements with modern innovation while maintaining harmony with the local environment.

"Saudi Architecture blends our deep-rooted heritage with contemporary design thinking," Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman stated. "We are not only reshaping urban landscapes but also creating a balanced architectural framework that honours our past while embracing the future. This model will serve as a global inspiration for architectural innovation."

He further noted that beyond enhancing city aesthetics and quality of life, Saudi Architecture will drive economic growth by making urban areas more attractive to visitors and investors. This, in turn, will stimulate key sectors such as tourism, hospitality, and construction, reinforcing the Kingdom's position as a global architectural hub.

SR8 billion to GDP
Saudi Architecture is set to diversify urban landscapes, empower local talent, and contribute significantly to the economy. By 2030, it is expected to add over SR8 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.

Designed with flexibility and accessibility in mind, the architectural framework provides developers with clear guidelines that accommodate modern building materials without imposing additional financial burdens. Each of the 19 architectural styles offers three design typographies -traditional, transitional, and contemporary - allowing for creative expression while preserving the authenticity of Saudi architectural heritage.

Phased implementation
The Saudi Architecture framework will be implemented in phases, with the initial rollout focusing on key cities such as Al Ahsa, Taif, Mecca, and Abha. The first phase will prioritize major projects, government buildings, and commercial structures, setting a precedent for future urban developments across the Kingdom.

With its bold vision and structured approach, Saudi Architecture is set to redefine Saudi Arabia's urban identity, bridging tradition and innovation to create a thriving, globally recognized architectural landscape.

The Saudi Architecture Characters Map highlights 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 Medina, 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.

Efforts to implement Saudi Architecture are driven by partnerships across government agencies, engineering firms and real estate developers. Architectural design studios will support engineers and designers through engineering guidelines, training workshops and skill development programs to ensure the highest standards of sustainability and quality.

Gulfnews