Journal of King Abdulaziz University: Environmental Design Sciences

Assessment Suitability Villages of Environmental for Rural Settlement in Al Madinah Al Munawwarah Using Analytic Hierarchy Process and GIS

Maleeha hamed Abadalah AL.Abdali — 2026-01-26

The study aims to evaluate suitability of village environment for rural settlement in Al Madinah region according to three models of suitability: natural, human, and comprehensive. the study relied on the analytical approach based on quantitative and cartographic methods in GIS. gradual of methodology from collecting and preparing data, determining weights using hierarchical analysis method, and merging models layers according to their weights using (Calculator GIS) to produce maps to evaluate suitability of village environment for rural settlement. The results of study showed that suitability of comprehensive indicator for rural settlement ranged between 20-78%, and more than 50% of villages are concentrated in an area characterized by moderate suitability 35-40%. there is no village where suitability rate is less than 25%. the number of villages in the area characterized by suitability 25-35% is about 46 villages, 29.49% of total villages. the villages whose environmental suitability ranges 40-45% are about 24 villages,15.39% of total villages. the villages whose environmental suitability for settlement exceeds 45% four villages, 2.56% of total number. the results of relationship between distribution of villages and comprehensive suitability for settlement show a very weak inverse relationship -0.18 that is not statistically significant. the study recommends Concentration rural development plans on reversing pattern of relationship and increasing its strength, in order to ensure functional integration between villages and cities in achieving sustainable development.

Applications of Artificial Intelligence and Remote Sensing for Air Quality Analysis in Dammam and Jubail, Saudi Arabia

Jumah bint Ibrahim Ahmed Ain — 2026-01-26

Dammam and Jubail face significant environmental and public health challenges due to elevated air pollution resulting from industrial activities and traffic emissions. This study aimed to assess air quality in both cities during the period 2019–2024 by utilizing satellite data (Sentinel-5P and MODIS) in conjunction with artificial intelligence models. The results revealed that Jubail recorded higher concentrations of fine particulate matter (PM₂.₅), averaging 45.28 μg/m³, compared to Dammam (42.04 μg/m³). Additionally, NO₂ and SO₂ levels were higher in Jubail, reflecting the pronounced impact of industrial activities, while no significant difference was observed in CO concentrations between the two cities. The XGBoost model was employed to predict air quality, achieving high accuracy (R² between 0.96 and 0.98), with prediction errors being greater in Jubail. The study confirmed that industrial emissions and traffic are the primary sources of pollution, although some improvement in certain pollutants was observed due to environmental policies. The study recommends enhancing vehicle efficiency, expanding green spaces, and developing stricter environmental policies to mitigate rising NO₂ and O₃ levels and to achieve a more sustainable environment.

An Analytical Study of Adaptive Reuse in Jeddah's Historic Buildings: Beit Jokhdar as a Model

Zaina M. Albaghajati — 2026-01-26

This research aims to study the adaptive reuse of Beit Jokhdar as a model for the restoration of historical houses, their rehabilitation, and transformation into heritage hotels (boutique hotels) or any other activity that combines sustainability while preserving their historical identity. The preservation and investment in the region's urban heritage is one of the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, and the Ministry of Culture and its relevant authorities are making diligent efforts to revitalize the Historic Jeddah area in accordance with international standards such as UNESCO and ICOMOS. The research employed a descriptive analytical methodology of Beit Jokhdar within the context of Historic Jeddah. Primary data was based on a field visit to the hotel, utilizing field observation and photographic documentation tools to analyze the architectural features that have been preserved. Additionally, a semi-structured interview was conducted with the hotel's operations management. The findings revealed that what distinguishes the revitalization of Beit Jokhdar and its conversion into a heritage hotel is the suitability of its functional spaces for use as a boutique hotel, which supports its architectural, economic, and social sustainability. From the architectural aspect, the house was restored to preserve its heritage and original splendor using traditional building materials and methods. The interior design selections were strategically implemented to complement the property's primary function as a hospitality venue, showcasing regional heritage elements through a contemporary lens, which significantly elevates the overall guest experience. In terms of economic sustainability, Beit Jokhdar has helped attract tourists from around the world as a heritage hotel and hospitality venue, resulting in social and economic impacts in the Historic Jeddah area. The research recommends studying and documenting leading practices in the restoration and repurposing of heritage buildings in Historic Jeddah and disseminating the culture and expertise of practitioners and researchers.

Producing a Spatial Signature Map of Solar Energy services Sites, in Al-Qunfudah Governorate in the Emirate of Makkah Al-Mukarramah Region KSA, Using Geographic Information System (GIS)

Khaireah Ali Hasan Alshehabi — 2026-01-26

The present study targets for producing a spatial signature map of solar energy services sites, in Al-Qunfudah Governorate in the western part of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, in the Emirate of Makkah Al-Mukarramah Region. The study used the descriptive analytical method, and techniques including the comprehensive analytical Henrik hierarchical, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for assessing similarities that include the climatic, geographic and environmental factors of the East, determining the locations and determining the network of solar power stations for electric power in Al-Qunfudah Governorate. The results reached in the present study indicated that the general elimination of the values of the total general radiation reaching the surface of the earth in Al-Qunfudah Governorate from 1984 to 2022 has gradually decreased at the annual rate. The present study revealed that many factors control the ideal sites of solar power stations; the most important is the degree of direct exposure to solar radiation, the earth's surface slope where it degrades in the governorate, from east to west at the Red Sea coast, the elevation of the earth's surface and the direction of the slope of the earth's surface. The rest of the factors are of low impact. It turns out that what we want to think about is 2.72% of the total reduction of the main sites of power stations where the neighborhood area is 140.1374 square kilometers and is capable of generating a larger amount of solar energy, especially in the center of Thulatha Al-Kharm, and the center of Sabt Al-Tijara, which is located east of Al-Qunfudah Governorate. The present study recommends the specialists work hand in hand with the authority of the governorate in making plans for establishing new energy sources in the governorate. Establishment of solar power generation services is of the most economic importance for road and the electricity networks in the south of Al-Qunfudah Governorate. The authority needs to choose many large places in other gathering sites to establish solar power generation services. Spreading awareness in the local community based on the use of home solar energy is of real importance as well. It is here to encourage the owners of agricultural lands to adopt using solar energy.

Sustainable Urban Revitalization Approach to Old City Centers: An Analytical Review of Al-Dahou District in Riyadh

Khalid Ayed Al-Otaibi — 2026-01-26

This paper aims to review the urban revitalization approach for historic city centers based on a case analysis of the Al-Dahou neighborhood in Riyadh, a heritage neighborhood that has witnessed a large-scale urban development project. The study used a descriptive and qualitative approach, including a review of previous studies, field interviews, and an analysis of official reports. The Al-Dahou neighborhood revitalization project was evaluated according to four main dimensions: cultural, economic, urban, and social. The results showed that the project succeeded in its urban and cultural aspects, particularly through the use of heritage architectural elements that reflected local identity. It also contributed to stimulating the local economy through investment activities of a cultural nature. However, the study revealed challenges in activating the social dimension, as the local community was not sufficiently involved in the planning, implementation and evaluation stages. The study recommends adopting an integrated vision based on community engagement and strengthening cultural identity.

Walkability Audit Tool for Commercial Streets in the Central Areas of GCC Cities: A Scoping Review

Bander Fahad B. Alkrides — 2026-01-26

The walkability is an important and notable issue. There are several methods, but the walkability audit tool is one of the most effective. This paper offers a literature review of walkability audit tools that can be applied to commercial streets in the central areas of the cities in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. This paper highlights important aspects of urban walkability, including functionality, safety, aesthetics, comfort, context, and applicability across various urban locations. This study uses the PRISMA technique to filter and review 30 contextual papers, categorising walkability factors into four domains and acknowledging diverse cultural, climatic, and context-specific factors in the GCC city context. The study implies the availability of a customisable and culturally appropriate walkability assessment instrument that will enhance the GCC region's urban design and planning practices.

Producing a Spatial Signature Map of Solar Energy services Sites, in Al-Qunfudah Governorate in the Emirate of Makkah Al-Mukarramah Region KSA, Using Geographic Information System (GIS)

Khaireah Ali Hasan Alshehabi — 2026-01-26