SUSTAINABLE HERITAGE CONSERVATION IN THE GULF REGIONS

Abstract

The recent urban development and growth have rapidly transformed many Gulf countries as a consequence of the oil exportation business. The direction of expansion has raised many questions about the incoming new challenges for the post-oil era of many capitals in the Middle East Area. Among the consequences of rapid urbanization, there is a growing need for local identity. The growing globalized cities need also to preserve the historical heritage and re-qualify the traditional urban fabric for rediscovering local culture and national traditions. The paper presents cases of heritage preservation and rehabilitation in the Gulf regions and in particular in Saudi Arabia. The projects are assessed by adopting sustainable heritage principles (social, cultural, and environmental). The results highlight the need to preserve the social values of historical heritage, ancient materials, and adaptive reuse methodologies as an adaptation to the climate. The research aims to promote sustainable conservative approaches in the Gulf Regions.