Reconceptualizing Built Heritage in Saudi Arabia

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. The tribal town of AlUla, home to the first world heritage site of the kingdom, is evaluated as a national role model for a fast-paced cultural development. The methods implemented on the site are analysed through risk-benefit analysis to evaluate the model’s re-implementation in other contexts. Heritagisation of the oil industry is discussed to showcase its past and future contribution towards tourism and dissemination, as well as its influence on the Saudi identity. Case studies are analysed through interviews with stakeholders, detailed site visit reports and literature reviews to create a comprehensive framework of the conceptualization of heritage in the area today.