King Abdulaziz University: Documenting Architectural Heritage with Artificial Intelligence

In a pioneering step that blends the authenticity of the past with the advancements of future technologies, King Abdulaziz University , represented by the Faculty of Architecture and Planning, inaugurated the "Echoes of the Past" exhibition, organized by the Geomatics Department. The exhibition aims to document Saudi architectural identity using the latest artificial intelligence and geospatial information systems technologies. The opening ceremony was attended by Professor Dr. Mohammed Kabli, Vice President of the University for Academic Affairs, and a number of academic and student leaders.

Architectural heritage and the Kingdom's Vision 2030

This exhibition comes at a crucial national juncture, coinciding with the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which places great importance on national heritage as an integral part of the deeply rooted Saudi identity. Traditional Saudi architecture, with its unique diversity ranging from the Hijazi style in the west to the Najdi style in the central region and beyond, stands as a testament to the Saudi people's ability to adapt their environment to serve their needs. Hence, the significance of King Abdulaziz University's initiative lies in its use of technology not only for archiving but also to draw inspiration from the past for sustainable solutions and apply them to future projects, thereby enhancing the Kingdom's position as a global cultural and tourist destination.

Integrating technology with authenticity

The exhibition highlighted the aesthetics of traditional Saudi architecture, showcasing its environmental and cultural dimensions through the use of advanced technologies. Geomatics students were able to utilize spatial analysis and digital modeling tools to create accurate simulations of heritage buildings. These technologies contribute to:

• Preserving heritage assets from extinction through 3D digital documentation.
• Analyzing materials used in the past and how they dealt with the climate is useful in modern sustainability studies.
• Providing a rich visual experience for visitors that blends reality and digital imagination.

Community and educational interaction

The exhibition wasn't limited to the academic sphere; it also encompassed awareness and community engagement, welcoming student delegations from schools in Jeddah. The students viewed models and projects that embodied the architectural identity of Saudi regions with remarkable accuracy. University students presented their visitors with advanced interactive displays that introduced regional architectural styles and revealed the impact of the natural environment on shaping the local urban fabric.

The exhibition supervisor, Dr. Ryan Sahahiri, explained that the event aims to provide a modern reading of traditional architecture using spatial analysis tools and accurate digital documentation of heritage assets, stressing that this scientific methodology contributes to raising the quality of future urban projects.

The future of architecture and geomatics

This academic initiative reflects King Abdulaziz University's commitment to graduating qualified national talent capable of utilizing the latest global technologies to serve the nation. Involving school students in this event provides a rare and early opportunity to learn about urban planning and geomatics, instilling in them an awareness of architectural heritage from a contemporary scientific and technological perspective, and motivating them to be part of the Kingdom's urban and cultural development.