Heritage as a notion has recently been a shifting paradigm in Saudi Arabia. The novel tourism-oriented approach to heritage, especially built heritage, has developed unique projects that aim to diversify the country’s economy and have the young population partake in the process. This research proposes the enhancement of built heritage as a key factor for the ongoing nation building programme to flourish national pride, foster a skilful generation and prosper the economy. This research analyses chosen methods of regenerating built heritage, to demonstrate how the inherent values of heritage are revived. It explores the multifaceted relationship between heritage, natural resources and the continuous development of national identity.