This episode of the “Fanjan” program revolves around the topic of architecture and the design of Arab Islamic cities, where Abdul Rahman Abu Malh hosts Dr. Saleh Al-Hadroul, a professor and researcher in the field of architecture. The discussion addresses the differences between traditional Islamic cities and modern cities, reviewing how architecture has been influenced by the religious and social values of Islamic communities. The conversation focuses on Medina as an example of a traditional city, explaining how its design was built on values like neighbor privacy and urban regulations derived from religion, contrasting this with architectural developments in Saudi Arabia, which have seen a rapid shift toward modern styles. The talk also touches upon the problems caused by modern urban planning, how the human values that once governed city design have retreated in favor of new systems emphasizing efficiency and modern technologies. At the end of the episode, there is an emphasis on the necessity of restoring the fundamental principles upon which Arab Islamic cities were built to ensure that the needs of individuals in modern cities are met.
The Architectural Character of Islamic Cities
The architectural character of Islamic cities is an integral part of the cultural and religious identity of Islamic communities. This identity reflects the religious and social values that have been shaped over the ages. The traditional Islamic city was built according to strict religious and social principles, expressing the interconnectedness and cohesion of the community through its architectural planning. The narrow and winding streets that distinguish ancient Islamic cities fostered individuals’ belonging to their communities, creating an environment where people felt intimacy and closeness to one another. For instance, homes were prohibited from having windows overlooking their neighbors, stemming from the value of privacy, which contributed to the building of interconnected communities that ensure respect for individual privacies.
When we look at Medina as one of the primary models of Islamic cities, we find that it was built around the Prophet’s Mosque, which served as the city’s beating heart. Homes were built close to the mosque, facilitating people’s access to prayer and social interaction. This urban planning was not just a matter of urban organization but reflected Islamic values concerning the importance of prayer and neighborly communication. The city also embodied the concept of ‘courtyard,’ where homes opened onto shared spaces, enhancing social interaction among the residents.
Over time, with modern urban developments, Islamic cities witnessed radical changes, as some of these core values began to fade. For example, in modern cities like Riyadh, there is a clear absence of traditional architectural character, dominated instead by a modern architectural style that relies on large spaces and highways. This change has affected social connectivity and neighborly relations, as living in these cities has become more isolated, contributing to a sense of alienation among individuals. The values that once enhanced Islamic identity are beginning to dissipate, necessitating a reconsideration of how future cities are planned to ensure that these designs reflect the community’s cultural identity.
Urban Transformations in Medina
The history of Medina reflects a profound transformation in urban planning, starting from the pre-Hijrah period when the city was a cluster of scattered neighborhoods lacking cohesion. These neighborhoods depended on agriculture, with the oasis being the main source of life. After the Prophet Muhammad’s migration, a radical shift in the city’s planning began. Migration united Muslims from Mecca and Medina, who set out to establish a new community based on Islamic principles.
The construction of the Prophet’s Mosque was the first step in this transformation, as the mosque became the center of social and religious life. It was not merely a place for prayer; it also served as the starting point for all daily activities. After the mosque was built, Muslims began constructing their homes around it, contributing to the city’s planning. This model was not random but carefully considered to reflect social and religious ties among the residents. This urban planning shaped Medina’s identity as the first Islamic city and a true representation of Islamic values.
The transformations
the changes that occurred in Medina were not limited to urban planning alone, but also included the laws and regulations governing construction and planning. For example, there were regulations prohibiting the construction of houses in a way that obstructs the neighbor’s view or prevents the arrival of light and air. These regulations embodied Islamic values of privacy and mutual respect among neighbors. Thus, Medina was considered a model of urban planning that aligns with Islamic values and reflects the true spirit of the Muslim community.
Modern Architecture in Saudi Cities
With the rapid transformations witnessed in Saudi cities, modern architecture began to move towards new models of planning, giving the city a character completely different from traditional Islamic cities. These transformations were driven by the economic and social developments that the Kingdom experienced, in addition to the urban boom that resulted from major developmental plans.
In Riyadh, the city witnessed a transition from a traditional character to a modern character, where the focus was on building large residential neighborhoods and wide streets. This new pattern of planning was not always positive, as it often led to a decline in the human values that enhance social bonds and privacy. Homes became distant from each other, contributing to a sense of isolation among residents. The modern architectural style utilized modern technologies and new materials; however, in many cases, these designs lacked consideration for the cultural identity of the community.
Unlike ancient cities, where privacy was an integral part of the design, modern architecture often neglects these values. For example, balconies and large windows overlooking the streets may be considered an aesthetic form, but they negatively impact privacy. With the increasing population, there has been significant pressure on infrastructure, necessitating a reconsideration of how cities are designed to revive human values and ensure a decent living for citizens.
Future Challenges in Architecture and Urban Planning
As part of the future challenges facing Arab and Islamic cities, planners and architects need to think more deeply about how to integrate human and religious values into architectural designs. The future requires cities that enhance social connections among individuals and provide healthy and comfortable living environments. Modern architecture should reflect Islamic principles of privacy and connectivity, while taking into account technological and environmental developments.
Sustainable urban planning will be one of the key factors in achieving this goal. Building communities characterized by a balance between green spaces and residential and commercial areas will contribute to improving the quality of life. The importance of public transportation should also be considered, as it can help reduce dependence on cars and alleviate congestion, which will positively reflect on the environment and enhance social ties among residents.
The ability to absorb the rapid changes occurring in cities while maintaining cultural and religious identity will be a significant challenge for planners. Therefore, it requires cooperation among planners, architects, and local communities to ensure that modern architecture reflects community values and meets its needs.
Urban Transformations in Arab Cities
Arab cities, especially larger ones, suffer from several challenges related to their urban planning. This is evident in traffic congestion and the loss of architectural identity, contributing to a sense of isolation and disconnection among residents. Traditional cities were characterized by designs that facilitated walking, where mosques and markets were close to residential neighborhoods, allowing for greater social interaction. In contrast, many modern cities rely on horizontal planning that requires car usage, increasing congestion and reducing public spaces designated for pedestrians.
For example, in Riyadh, new neighborhoods have seen a noticeable increase in the number of cars, leading to the prevalence of traffic congestion. This congestion is not only due to the increase in the number of vehicles but also due to road designs that promote dependence on the car as a primary means of transportation, complicating access to mosques, markets, and public facilities. Additionally, this pattern affects social interaction, as many residents find it difficult to communicate with their neighbors or participate in social activities.
Modern architecture is considered
multiple examples from other cities like Jeddah and Dammam, and the urban planning model that has been adopted, serve as case studies to learn from. It is essential to benefit from successful experiences and rethink how to develop Arab cities in a way that ensures the comfort of residents and the ease of their movement. There should be a balance between modern planning and attention to urban heritage, ensuring the sustainability of the cultural identity of the cities.
Adapting to New Transformations
Adapting to new urban changes is essential, especially for the new generations that have grown up in modern urban environments. While previous generations struggled to adapt to those changes, the current generation is growing up in environments where their nature has become part of their daily life. This disparity in experience between generations can affect social relationships and feelings associated with belonging to a place.
For example, individuals from older generations may find it difficult to adapt to the new lifestyle that requires reliance on cars for transportation, while younger generations may find that natural. This difference in experience can lead to a sense of alienation among older generations, as they feel they have lost part of their cultural and social identity due to urban transformations.
Therefore, it is important to integrate elements of traditional design into modern urban planning, allowing the opportunity to retain cultural identity and enhance the sense of belonging among residents. This should include designing public spaces that encourage social activities and walking, as well as providing facilities close to residential areas, facilitating social interaction and strengthening the bond between residents.
Challenges in Urban Development Plans
The challenges facing urban development plans in Arab cities indicate the need to reconsider how to deal with urban spaces. Many major urban projects are often influenced by central decisions that do not reflect the actual needs of the residents. Urban development plans should be characterized by flexibility and responsiveness to community requirements, not just fulfilling formal or traditional demands.
For instance, there may be projects aimed at improving infrastructure, but without considering how these projects will affect the daily lives of residents. New roads or massive commercial centers may be created, but if the impact of these projects on the social and economic life of residents is not thought about, they will fail to achieve their developmental goals.
Hence, it is crucial to involve the community in the urban planning process through organizing workshops and seminars that encourage citizens to express their needs and ideas. Urban development must be inclusive and ensure the needs of all groups are met, including the most vulnerable. This process will help enhance trust between citizens and local authorities and create a more liveable urban environment.
Balance Between the Past and the Future
Finding a balance between the past and the future presents a significant challenge in the urban planning process. While cities seek modernization and development, they must consider the cultural values and standards that are part of the community’s identity. A deep reading of the history of cities can provide valuable insights into how to develop them in a way that respects their heritage.
There are successful examples in global cities where elements of traditional architecture have been integrated into modern designs, helping to preserve cultural identity and enhance feelings of pride and belonging among residents. While some prefer to completely distance themselves from the past, many thinkers emphasize the importance of learning from the lessons of history. There should be space for dialogue between different generations on how to handle this balance.
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The Diplomatic Quarter in Riyadh is considered a good example of how to integrate contemporary designs with human considerations. Thanks to thoughtful planning, green spaces and walking areas have been provided, enhancing the quality of life for residents. However, achieving this requires a commitment from all stakeholders, including the government, developers, and civil society.
The episode was summarized using artificial intelligence ezycontent
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