By Prince Abdulaziz bin Ayyaf
In “Architecture and Urbanism of Riyadh: The Salmani Style,” published in Al Jazeera newspaper on 27 Nov. 2017, I explored Salmani urbanism. I coined the term “Salmani architecture” to describe the approach of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz, to the local urban style of Riyadh Province. This approach retains the authenticity of heritage while adopting modern innovations, achieving an ideal synthesis of old and new, and reinforcing the local urban identity.
More than five decades ago, Riyadh’s dynamic urban development began to pulsate under the wise leadership of the then Governor of Riyadh Province, now King Salman bin Abdulaziz. His notable and inspiring personality drove the growth and progress of the province between 1963 and 2011, marking a unique transformation of the urban landscape. The city underwent unprecedented and rapid expansion under his astute guidance, leaving a clear and lasting imprint of his strategic vision on Riyadh’s urban fabric.
The urban legacy of King Salman is a distinctive architectural and urban narrative. The Salmani approach has become synonymous with the development of Riyadh, deeply rooted in the principles of Salmaneyyah, which continues to drive the city’s transformation. This transformation aligns with the Kingdom’s ambitious Vision 2030, which Salmani urbanism supports and reinforces. The Salmani approach transcends material constructs, articulating Riyadh’s identity through meticulous urban planning and its majestic horizons.
Riyadh’s attachment to King Salman is unique, not merely temporal but deeply influential, orienting and providing for its citizens and those of other Saudi cities. The capital’s rapid and remarkable development yielded spatial and residential changes, with Salman bin Abdulaziz central to its memory. Salmani principles permeate every aspect of life—urban, economic, social, administrative, and political.
Today, Riyadh thrives with projects and exemplary works that embody the Salmani urban approach. An official decree now encompasses codes and regulations that reflect this concept at the city level, aiming to nurture and expand the local urban environment. Salmani urbanism blends authenticity with modernity, fostering creativity and innovation while preserving tradition.
In a lecture delivered at the historical King Abdul Aziz Center in Riyadh in 1999 (1420 H), King Salman expertly stated that there is no conflict between authenticity and modernity. The two can coexist harmoniously. This philosophy lies at the heart of the Salmani urban approach, which transcends time and space. Salmaneyyah is not a product to be replicated indiscriminately. Viewing it superficially or attributing all urban projects during King Salman’s governorship to this philosophy dilutes its essence. Similarly, limiting Salmani urbanism to traditional Najdi architecture is incorrect. Salmaneyyah is broader, adapting to diverse historical, geographical, and environmental conditions while integrating modern attributes compatible with the era.
Salmaneyyah respects and values the architectural and urban elements of each region, incorporating new and contemporary aspects without compromising their historical, geographical, and social essence. Although rooted in Riyadh, there is an urgent need to apply it across the Kingdom. Salmaneyyah extends beyond architecture, encompassing a comprehensive urban development framework, including planning, environmental, and human considerations.
Vision 2030 has revitalized Riyadh through unprecedented projects that set global benchmarks. These efforts have ushered in a transformative era. Riyadh progresses boldly, not just through architectural innovation but through leadership that integrates authenticity, citizenship, and Salmaneyyah. The success of these projects lies not only in their scale but also in the active participation of Saudi professionals at all levels. This fosters development and propagates the spirit of Salmaneyyah.
Salmaneyyah is a transformative power rooted in Salmani wisdom, merging heritage and modernity. It provides a roadmap for harmonious coexistence between tradition and progress. As custodians of this legacy, we must embrace it fully, documenting and sharing its principles with future generations.
Riyadh’s maturity in adopting and understanding Salmaneyyah offers a unique opportunity. Universities and consulting firms must leverage this maturity and the grand Vision 2030 projects to enrich the local urban landscape. The Kingdom’s developmental revolution is unmatched. Saudi specialists should immerse themselves in it, document it, and contribute to its success.
Salmaneyyah is not confined to structures. It represents the articulation of heritage and the vision to assimilate the past while embracing the future. It serves as an outline for urban development administration and a cornerstone for resurrecting Saudi cities’ urban identity. It is crucial to understand Salmaneyyah deeply, ensuring its principles are preserved and not misinterpreted. Its harmonious integration of authenticity and modernity reinforces the national identity while fostering innovation and progress.