Imam Abdul Rahman University documents the architectural heritage in 7 villages in Qatif

In a pioneering academic initiative aimed at preserving the Kingdom's cultural and architectural heritage, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University announced a unique project to transform seven traditional villages in the Qatif Governorate into "open laboratories." This project aims to study and document the unique urban fabric of these areas and develop innovative design solutions that blend the authenticity of the past with the demands of the present.

Qatif: A historical depth and unique urban fabric

This initiative stems from the historical and geographical significance of Qatif Governorate, one of the oldest coastal oases in the Arabian Gulf region. Qatif's villages are characterized by an architectural style that reflects human adaptation to the environment, with narrow alleyways providing shade, closely packed buildings fostering social bonds, and the use of local building materials. This urban fabric is not merely a collection of buildings; it is a living record of the region's social and economic history, requiring meticulous scientific documentation before it is subjected to radical change.

Details of the initiative and targeted villages

The Dean of the College of Architecture and Planning, Dr. Badran Al-Zunaifer, explained that the project encompasses seven main villages: Anik, Al-Jaroudiyah, Al-Bahari, Al-Jish, Al-Tubi, Hallat Mahish, and Umm Al-Hamam . He emphasized that these villages were selected based on their authentic and potentially developable architectural characteristics. The Department of Architecture aims to bridge the gap between theoretical education and practical application, and to align academic outcomes with the objectives of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, particularly in the areas of quality of life and urban development.

From classrooms to fieldwork

For his part, Dr. Yousef Al-Suhaimi, supervisor of the urban design studio, indicated that the initiative represents a qualitative leap in teaching methods, as students moved directly from lecture halls to the field. The project is based on:

• Monitoring and analysis: Using advanced technical tools to survey spaces and document architectural details.
• Visual perception: A study of the mental image of the city and its symbolic elements.
• Understanding social behavior: Analyzing population movement and needs to ensure that design solutions are appropriate to social reality.

Expected impact: Sustainability of national identity

The importance of this project extends beyond the academic sphere to encompass national and cultural dimensions. By documenting this urban fabric, the university contributes to preserving Saudi national identity and highlighting its cultural diversity. Furthermore, the findings of these studies will form a reference database for planners, architects, and municipal authorities, facilitating planning decisions that respect the history of the place while simultaneously meeting the aspirations of its inhabitants, thus reinforcing the concepts of urban and social sustainability.