Latest news with #SupremeCommitteefor
Gulf News
26-04-2025
- Gulf News
Hajj 2025: Smart book on pilgrimage launched
Cairo: Saudi Arabia has unveiled a smart guide in several languages for the Islamic Hajj pilgrimage, as part of the kingdom's preparations for the annual religious congregation, due this year in early June. The "Smart Book of Hajj Rituals" initiative is an electronic guide available in six languages — Arabic, English, French, Urdu, Malayalam, and Turkish. The guide is accessible in electronic libraries in mosques and aboard flights of the Saudi national carrier, Saudia. It aims to educate pilgrims about the rules and rites of Hajj. The initiative was launched by Saudi Minister of Islamic Affairs, Call and Guidance, Sheikh Abdullatif Al Al Sheikh, who also heads the ministry's Supreme Committee for Hajj, Umrah and Visit Affairs. It was introduced during a meeting with officials serving in Mecca, home to Islam's holiest mosque. The meeting reviewed Hajj-related plans, including preparations of mosques along pilgrims' routes, various guidance programmes, deployment of translators in international languages at land, sea, and air ports, and the distribution of awareness-raising publications. Hajj is one of Islam's five obligatory duties. Muslims who are physically and financially able must perform Hajj at least once in their lifetime.
Asharq Al-Awsat
18-03-2025
- Business
- Asharq Al-Awsat
‘Saudi Architecture Characters Map' Boosts City Appeal for Investment
Economic and architectural experts have described Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's launch of the 'Saudi Architecture Characters Map' as a strategic shift, transforming architecture into an economic asset for investment. In statements to Asharq Al-Awsat, they emphasized that the initiative will enhance Saudi Arabia's competitive edge in the tourism and cultural real estate development sectors. Additionally, it is expected to boost the sustainability of the tourism economy and stimulate the manufacturing industries, from local stone production to carpentry, traditional carvings, and decorative arts. The move could also lead to the creation of specialized companies focused on reviving traditional crafts, gradually transforming them into export industries. Featuring 19 distinct architectural styles inspired by the Kingdom's diverse geographical and cultural characteristics, the initiative is expected to contribute over 8 billion riyals ($2.13 billion) to the cumulative GDP and create more than 34,000 jobs in engineering, construction, and urban development sectors by 2030. This move is part of a broader effort to transform and develop Saudi cities. As Chairman of the Supreme Committee for Saudi Architectural Design Guidelines, the Crown Prince said that Saudi architecture reflects the cultural and geographical diversity of the Kingdom. '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. Dr. Mohammed Al-Qahtani, an economics professor at King Faisal University, told Asharq Al-Awsat that the launch of the Map by the Crown Prince is more than just a cultural or architectural announcement. It represents a move with deep economic implications that redefines the investment and real estate landscape in Saudi Arabia, in line with a developmental vision that transcends traditional urban growth. He emphasized that 'the architectural identity of any country is one of the pillars of soft power, and when this identity becomes a standard for developmental projects, we are witnessing a strategic shift. Architecture becomes an economic asset to be invested in, extending beyond just aesthetic value.' Al-Qahtani added that the unification of architectural identity means both local and international investors will reassess their plans in light of new requirements that demand higher quality, thereby increasing real estate market value and attracting capital seeking authentic and sustainable projects.
Trade Arabia
18-03-2025
- Business
- Trade Arabia
Saudi Arabia launches architecture map to celebrate 19 distinct styles
HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, has officially launched the Saudi Architecture Characters Map, featuring 19 distinct architectural styles inspired by the kingdom's diverse geographical and cultural characteristics. It highlights Saudi Arabia's commitment to celebrating the country's architectural heritage, enhancing quality of life and modernising the urban landscape in Saudi cities as part of Vision 2030. As Chairman of the Supreme Committee for Saudi Architectural Design Guidelines, HRH Crown Prince emphasized that Saudi Architecture reflects the cultural and geographical diversity of the kingdom. He further highlighted the importance of sustainable urban planning that harmonizes with the local environment while integrating traditional architectural elements into modern designs. Prince Mohammed bin Salman said: "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." "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," he stated. Saudi Architecture aims to enrich the urban architectural diversity of the kingdom, elevate urban landscape in cities and empower local talent. By 2030, it is expected to contribute over SAR8 billion ($2.1 billion) to the kingdom's cumulative GDP and create over 34,000 direct and indirect job opportunities across the engineering, construction and urban development sectors, he added. Designed with flexibility in mind, Saudi Architecture provides developers with guidelines that allow for modern building materials without imposing additional financial burdens. Each of the 19 architectural styles offers three design typographies - traditional, transitional and contemporary - encouraging creative expression while preserving the authenticity of local architecture. According to senior officials, the implementation of Saudi Architecture will unfold in a phased manner. The first phase will focus on Al Ahsa, Taif, Makkah and Abha, where initial applications will target major projects, government buildings and commercial structures. 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 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, they stated. Efforts to implement Saudi Architecture are driven by partnerships across government agencies, engineering firms and real estate developers.
Daily Tribune
18-03-2025
- Business
- Daily Tribune
HRH Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Unveils Saudi Architecture Characters Map to Honor Kingdom's Architectural Heritage
His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, has launched the Saudi Architecture Characters Map, a pioneering initiative that showcases 19 distinct architectural styles reflecting the Kingdom's rich cultural and geographical diversity. This landmark effort aligns with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 by preserving architectural heritage, enhancing urban landscapes, and modernizing city infrastructure. As Chairman of the Supreme Committee for Saudi Architectural Design Guidelines, HRH Crown Prince underscored the importance of Saudi Architecture in representing the country's historical identity while integrating modern urban planning principles. He emphasized that sustainable architectural development should complement the local environment and uphold traditional design elements. 'Saudi Architecture blends our rich heritage with contemporary design thinking,' HRH Crown Prince stated. 'By enhancing urban landscapes and improving quality of life, we are building an architectural framework that bridges our past and future. This initiative will serve as a global inspiration for architectural innovation.' HRH Crown Prince also highlighted the economic benefits of Saudi Architecture, noting that the initiative will boost sectors such as tourism, hospitality, and construction by making Saudi cities more attractive. 'By envisioning a future where our cities and communities thrive, Saudi Architecture will contribute to sustainable economic growth and job creation,' he added. The Saudi Architecture initiative aims to enrich the Kingdom's urban architectural diversity while fostering local talent. By 2030, it is expected to contribute over SAR 8 billion to the nation's cumulative GDP and generate more than 34,000 direct and indirect job opportunities across engineering, construction, and urban development sectors. Flexible and Inclusive Architectural Framework Saudi Architecture offers a flexible design approach that allows developers to incorporate modern materials while maintaining financial feasibility. The 19 architectural styles provide three design typologies—traditional, transitional, and contemporary—ensuring creative expression while preserving the authenticity of Saudi architectural heritage. The initiative's implementation will occur in phases, with the first phase focusing on Al-Ahsa, Taif, Mecca, and Abha. These initial efforts will prioritize major projects, government buildings, and commercial developments. Celebrating Saudi Arabia's Architectural Diversity The Saudi Architecture Characters Map identifies 19 architectural styles inspired by the Kingdom's natural landscapes and historical building traditions. 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 Collaborative Implementation and Training Initiatives The success of Saudi Architecture relies on strategic partnerships with government agencies, engineering firms, and real estate developers. Architectural design studios will play a pivotal role by providing engineering guidelines, training workshops, and skill development programs to ensure high sustainability standards and design excellence. By integrating tradition with modernity, the Saudi Architecture Characters Map sets a new benchmark in urban planning and design, reinforcing the Kingdom's commitment to cultural preservation and future-focused development.
Leaders
17-03-2025
- Business
- Leaders
Architecture Characters Map: 19 Styles Celebrate Saudi Architectural Heritage
The Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Mohammed bin Salman, has launched the Saudi Architecture Characters Map, featuring 19 architectural styles, inspired by the geographic and cultural characteristics of the Kingdom, reported the Saudi Press Agency (SPA). The Saudi Architecture Characters Map is a new initiative to celebrate the Kingdom's architectural heritage, enhance the quality of life and enrich Saudi cities' urban landscapes, in line with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030. Sustainable Urban Planning The Saudi Crown Prince, as Chairman of the Supreme Committee for Saudi Architectural Design Guidelines, said that the Saudi Architecture reflects the Kingdom's geographical and cultural diversity. He also highlighted Saudi Arabia's efforts to develop sustainable urban cities that harmonize with the local environment, while integrating traditional architecture into modern design. 'The 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,' the Saudi Crown Prince said. Supporting Economic Growth Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman pointed to the economic benefits of the Saudi Architecture. '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,' he said. The Saudi Architecture aims to promote the Kingdom's architectural diversity, improve urban landscapes in Saudi cities, and empower local talent. Its contribution to Saudi Arabia's cumulative GDP is expected to exceed SAR 8 billion by 2030. It will also provide more than 34,000 direct and indirect jobs in the engineering, construction and urban development sectors during the same period. Implementation Process The Saudi Architecture uses flexible guidelines that allow for local building materials without imposing additional financial burdens on owners or developers. Each of the 19 architectural styles offers three design typologies: traditional, transitional and contemporary. This encourages creative expression while preserving the authenticity of local architecture. To celebrate Saudi Arabia's architectural heritage, enhance quality of life, and enrich the urban landscape, HRH Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has launched #SaudiArchitecture–featuring 19 architectural styles inspired by the Kingdom's diverse geography and culture — Saudi Architecture | العِمَارة السعودية (@architsaudi) March 16, 2025 The implementation process will take place in phases, with the first phase starting in Al-Ahsa, Taif, Makkah and Abha. The initial applications will target major projects and government buildings, in addition to commercial structures. Architectural Styles The Saudi Architecture Characters Map includes 19 architectural styles that take inspiration from the Kingdom's geographical, natural and cultural characteristics. Each style is based on urban and historical studies of building traditions passed down through generations. These include architectural styles such as 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. The implementation of the Saudi Architecture is supported by partnerships between government entities, engineering firms and real estate developers. In the light of this, architectural design studios will provide engineers and designers with the necessary support to ensure the highest standards of quality and sustainability. This includes engineering guidelines and training workshops to develop the skills of local talents. Short link : Post Views: 38
