The Heritage Jewel of Saudi Arabia: A Descriptive Analysis of the Heritage Management and Development Activities in the At-Turaif District in Ad-Dir’iyah, a World Heritage Site (WHS)

Mohammed Abdulfattah Bay (), Mohammed Mashary Alnaim, Ghazy Abdullah Albaqawy and Emad Noaime
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Mohammed Abdulfattah Bay: Department of Heritage Resources Management & Tour Guidance, College of Tourism & Archaeology, King Saud University, Riyadh 12372, Saudi Arabia
Mohammed Mashary Alnaim: Department of Architectural Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Hail, Hail 2440, Saudi Arabia
Ghazy Abdullah Albaqawy: Department of Architectural Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Hail, Hail 2440, Saudi Arabia
Emad Noaime: Department of Architectural Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Hail, Hail 2440, Saudi Arabia

Sustainability, 2022, vol. 14, issue 17, 1-24

Abstract: This study explores the change over time in the World Heritage Site (WHS) of Diriyah over three critical periods, focusing on three aspects: physical, social, and economic. Using a mixed-method approach, the site’s heritage management practices and development impact are investigated, and the impact of WHS inscription on the field of heritage in Saudi Arabia is demonstrated. A methodological approach is used in this study, which includes temporal analysis, analysis of historical images and photographs, non-participant observation and semi-structured interviews with key informants, site fieldwork, analysis of archival research, the content of official documents, related media, and promotional materials. The study concludes with a three-aspect matrix demonstrating Historic Diriyah’s various development and change over time. Historic Diriyah is a WHS, and it can still project a successful massive makeover development if a sustainable development approach is used, and visual integrity and site authenticity are preserved. The site of Historic Diriyah and its surroundings were critical in promoting the site as a national identity, an international destination, and presenting a new development agenda for the entire kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It has a significant impact on policymakers who are interested in how heritage sites can be integrated into a larger vision.

Keywords: conservation; cultural heritage of Saudi Arabia; world heritage; heritage management; sustainable development; Historic Diriyah (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2022
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (3)

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