Saudi Arabia announces 'Saudi Architecture Characters Map' development plan

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman unveiled a new development plan on Sunday, titled the “Saudi Architecture Characters Map,” according to the official Saudi Press Agency. The initiative outlines 19 distinct architectural styles inspired by the country’s diverse geographical and cultural heritag

The plan is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader Vision 2030 efforts to modernize urban landscapes and enhance quality of life while celebrating the nation’s rich architectural traditions. “It highlights Saudi Arabia’s commitment to celebrating the country’s architectural heritage, enhancing quality of life, and modernizing urban landscapes in Saudi cities as part of Vision 2030,” the agency said.

The project is expected to contribute more than 8 billion riyals (approximately $2.13 billion) to the nation’s gross domestic product by 2030 and create over 34,000 new jobs. The Crown Prince, who also chairs the Supreme Committee for Saudi Architecture Design Guidelines, emphasized that the initiative aims to develop sustainable urban centers that merge traditional architectural styles with modern design methods in harmony with the local environment.

“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,” he said.

The Saudi Architecture Map identifies 19 architectural styles based on extensive urban and historical studies that capture the building patterns passed down through generations across various regions of the country, irrespective of administrative divisions. Implementation of the design guidelines will begin with major public projects and commercial buildings in provinces such as Al-Ahsa, Taif, Mecca, and Abha.

The new plan is seen as a pivotal step in reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s cultural identity and promoting sustainable development, while positioning the kingdom as a global leader in innovative architectural design.

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