Tweets of Transformation: Investigating Tactical Urbanism and Social Interactions in Jeddah’s Colorful Corniche Initiative

Abstract

This qualitative study aims to explore the applicability of Twitter as a valuable data source for research on public spaces, with a particular focus on public spaces within the context of Saudi Arabia. The study’s primary objective is to demonstrate Twitter’s efficiency in providing data that would otherwise require substantial time and resources using conventional research methods. Additionally, the study aims to highlight Twitter’s role in monitoring the progress and success of a local urban project. Furthermore, it examines how individuals utilize Twitter to share their experiences and interactions with public spaces, specifically examining content related to a local placemaking initiative in one of Saudi Arabia’s largest cities. To achieve this, a convenience sample of 113 consecutive tweets associated with the local initiative was collected from Twitter. The tweets were then subjected to a thorough thematic analysis framework, yielding three overarching themes: (1) Positive impact and community engagement; (2) Enhancement of the city’s visual landscape; and (3) Community collaboration through volunteer work. These categories provide a comprehensive framework to explore and comprehend the multifaceted dimensions of public space discourse on Twitter. The research presented in this study contributes significantly to the expanding body of knowledge concerning the utilization of social media data for urban research and offers valuable practical implications for planners, designers, and policymakers involved in the development and enhancement of public spaces.