RIYADH — Saudi Arabia has launched the fourth phase of implementing residential and commercial design guidelines under the Saudi Architecture Charter, expanding coverage to cities and governorates in Riyadh, Makkah, Northern Borders, and Tabuk regions.
The initiative is part of the Saudi Architecture Map, launched in March 2025 by Crown Prince and Prime Minister Prince Mohammed bin Salman, aimed at strengthening national architectural identity, improving urban quality of life, and enhancing the Kingdom’s visual landscape.
The architecture map includes 19 architectural styles inspired by Saudi Arabia’s diverse geographical and cultural characteristics, developed through urban and historical studies reflecting the Kingdom’s building heritage.
The fourth phase introduces several region-specific styles, including Tihama foothills architecture, Tabuk coastal architecture, Bisha desert architecture, Farasan Islands architecture, Madinah rural architecture, Asir highlands architecture, and eastern Najdi architecture.
The expansion reinforces the Kingdom’s architectural diversity while promoting local identity across urban development projects.
Alongside the rollout, specialized design studios affiliated with development authorities, strategic offices, and municipal bodies continue to support implementation, ensuring high-quality urban outputs aligned with approved guidelines.
Source: Saudi Gazette