Saudi Cultural Missions Theses & Dissertations
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Item Restricted Development and Characterization of Gypsum Plaster Composite Incorporated with Sheep Wool(University of Strathclyde, 2025-05) Gah, Saleh; Sillars, FionaThis study aimed to develop and characterize a sustainable gypsum plaster composite incorporating sheep wool fibers to enhance thermal insulation properties while maintaining adequate mechanical performance. Samples with varying sheep wool concentrations (1%, 2%, and 3% by weight) were prepared using a layering technique. Thermal properties were evaluated using a heat flow meter method following BS EN 12667:2001, while mechanical performance was assessed through three-point bending tests according to BS EN 13279-2:2014. Results demonstrated significant improvements in thermal insulation, with thermal conductivity reduced by up to 51% in the 2% wool composite (0.122 W/m·K) compared to the reference sample (0.246 W/m·K). However, flexural strength decreased with wool fiber addition, with reductions ranging from 45-54% across reinforced samples, though all maintained values above the minimum requirement of 1.0 MPa for building applications. Microstructural analysis revealed that 2% wool content represented an optimal balance between thermal and mechanical properties, as higher concentrations led to fiber agglomeration and clustering that negatively affected performance. This research contributes to sustainable construction by demonstrating that sheep wool, a renewable material, can effectively enhance the thermal insulation of gypsum plaster while maintaining structural integrity for building applications.6 0Item Restricted EVALUATION AND IMPROVEMENT OF SUSTAINABILITY AND ITS INTEGRATION IN ARCHITECTURAL ENGINEERING(The Pennsylvania State University, 2025-05) Alhassani, Faisal; Messner, JohnSustainability has emerged as a prominent concern globally, extending its influence into various domains, including education. It is recognized as of utmost importance to address global environmental challenges. However, a critical gap exists in the perception of innovative teaching strategies, i.e., interdisciplinary collaboration, experiential learning, and targeted approaches, to improve sustainability literacy and its applications. This work discusses the assessment and improvement of sustainability education and how to evaluate the impacts of structured interventions on student learning and its applications in fostering sustainability competencies in architectural engineering. The goal is to integrate sustainability into architectural design studios and bridge the gaps in students’ knowledge and perceptions of practical design scenarios. It incorporates a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative analyses, such as pre and post-test evaluations, to provide a holistic understanding of the research questions. The methodology incorporates active learning principles into iterative educational modules, combining theoretical knowledge with practical application across key components such as initial assessments, conceptual foundations, collaborative learning, critical engagement, and applied learning in design studios. These components guide students from the basic understanding of sustainability to its practical application in design projects, fostering experts through team learning and ensuring a thorough grasp of sustainability. The results suggest substantial improvements following the implementation of targeted interventions, evidenced by the statistical analyses indicating significant differences (p-value <.001) across various sustainability principles, i.e., environmental, economic, and social. The post-intervention data underscores the confidence in applying sustainability principles, supported by the improved project scores and skill levels. To foster holistic decision-making and increase students’ knowledge and perceptions of sustainability concepts, interdisciplinary collaboration emerged as a transformative factor in achieving and overcoming sophisticated sustainability challenges. The importance of self-reflection exercises, project-based learning, and dynamic instructional methods was highlighted, as well as promoting critical thinking and engagement, as indicated by the qualitative data. These interventions not only enhance students’ performance but also their awareness of sustainability relevance, underlining the effectiveness of experiential and interdisciplinary approaches. Although sustainability interventions have led to many successful outcomes, this work identifies structural barriers and challenges, including curriculum rigidity and inconsistent faculty training, as key challenges to integrating sustainability within architectural engineering education. The need for early exposure to sustainability concepts was highlighted as the students’ initial baseline knowledge of sustainability was considerably low within foundational courses. These findings highlight the pressing need for more systematic reforms, including improved sustainability within course content and expanded resources for interdisciplinary collaboration. Further, the comparative analysis suggests the broader implications of sustainability across other engineering and design disciplines. This work provides actionable recommendations for integrating sustainability into the education curriculum. Future implications can incorporate scalable interdisciplinary modules and leverage targeted interventions, providing insights into frameworks for reshaping and organizing the AE course curriculum, which would serve as a benchmark for other fields that promote sustainability competencies.50 0Item Restricted The One Billion Trees(University of Portsmouth, 2025) Alshayea, Abdulaziz; Brymer, KatharineThis assignment explores the One Billion Trees initiative in Mongolia through the lens of project management, cultural dynamics, leadership, change management, and risk analysis. The project, launched in 2021, aims to combat desertification and climate change by planting one billion trees by 2030. The discussion begins with an examination of the role of national and organisational culture, applying Hofstede’s Cultural Dimensions and addressing its limitations through complementary models like Schein’s Organisational Culture Model. Leadership theories—including Situational, Action-Centred, and Transformational Leadership—are assessed for their relevance in mobilising diverse stakeholders, such as government bodies, private companies, and local communities. Change management is evaluated using Kotter’s 8-Step Model and Lewin’s Change Model, with Kotter’s approach recommended for its structured stakeholder engagement and long-term adaptability. A comprehensive risk analysis is provided through a detailed risk register and commentary, identifying key threats such as climate variability, seed shortages, and funding delays, along with proposed mitigation strategies. Overall, the assignment highlights the importance of integrating cultural sensitivity, adaptive leadership, stakeholder-driven change models, and proactive risk management to ensure the success and sustainability of large-scale environmental projects.37 0Item Restricted The impact of hosting the 2022 World Cup on promoting Sustainable Development in Qatar(Manchester Metropolitan University, 2024) Ismail, Yousef; Norrito, AlessioThe 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar provided a unique case study to examine mega-events impact on sustainable development in host nations. The purpose of this study is to assess the extent to which the FIFA World Cup affected the country’s sustainability plan both in the environmental, social, economic and governance fronts. To cater for the impacts of carbon emissions for the occasion, the government employed some strategies that focused on sustainability as elaborated below; the use of modular structures to construct stadia, integration of renewable energy sources, and planting of trees for greening of urban space (Kucukvar et al.,2021). The efforts to promote innovation in the countries have been analysed in the study following the pillars of human development, governance, social returns and environmental perspective. The World Cup raised issues concerning infrastructure and sustainability in Qatar, it brought awareness for sustainability especially on infrastructures but at the same time, there were rising concerns with rate of sustainable development due to the high growth rates that were evident (Al-Emadi et al., 2016). It would be quantitative for environmental indicators and qualitative for the policies’ implementation as well as the views of the stakeholders (Ghanad,2023). This method made it possible for the research to gain an understanding of the different silicon encounters between mega-event host nations and sustainable development. This study's theoretical foundation rendered ideas of sustainable event management, resource management efficiency, and sustainable social benefits to evaluate the possibilities of Qatar's World Cup sustainability efficient strategies (Van der Waldt, 2020). The research protrudes knowledge of mega-events and sustainability by analysing how this event impacted Qatar's environmental politics, economy and social fabric (Brannagan & Reiche, 2022). To achieve these objectives, the researcher adopted a descriptive statistic, collecting data mainly through online survey questionnaire administered to a large sample of 150 participants who voluntarily participated in the study. Moreover, the research highlights a few positive correlations between the World Cup in Qatari human development and governance and the social side of sustainability. It led to education, health and technology reform and promoted intercultural understanding and national pride (Knudsen et al., 2020). Increased spending on training and capacity building of the local populace to host a world-class event illustrates an enhanced drive towards human development programmes (Al-Emadi et al., 2016). There were more substantial improvements in governance structures and decision-making processes in environmental policies and labour laws to meet the international and FIFA standards (Zumbrägel, 2021). The World Cup can also be used to construct Qatari culture and identity and enable the unification of people from all over the globe, allowing for increased interaction (Griffin, 2021). These social effects also did not end with the event but through event sustainable legacies that included public spaces, cultural institutions, and society community programs that infused the growth of Qatar's social fabric (Almarri, 2020). However, the study also reveals a complex and somewhat contradictory relationship between the World Cup and environmental sustainability in Qatar. As much as the research shows the progress made in developing energy-efficient stadiums and greenhouse technologies, research demonstrates adverse effects on the ecological dimensions of sustainable development (Azzali, 2019). The purported environmental benefits of hosting a mega-event like the World Cup may be overshadowed, at least in the short term, by the substantial ecological footprint resulting from extensive construction projects and the influx of international visitors (Luerdi, 2022). Examining the impact and consequence of this approach of development and accelerative growth, which conjoins with mega-events, the study enunciates the difficulty of adopting a concept that develops net positive environmental effects. The research adds prior knowledge to Sustainable Event Management and Resource Efficiency. It may be effectively used by future mega-event’s organisers and policymakers (Al-Dosari, 2020). It needs a long-term visionary approach, monitoring mega-events within sustainable development (Mohamed et al., 2022). According to the study, if correctly managed, mega-events could facilitate progress toward sustainable development goals. On the same note, there is a need to ensure sustainable Economic Development alongside social and Environmental Conservation15 0Item Restricted EVENT OPERATION MANAGEMENT FOR HIKING SPORTS ACTIVITIES IN AL-ULA SAUDI ARABIA(Leeds Beckett University, 2024-12-17) Alanazi, Meshal; Dan, LomaxThis research aims to explore the role of event operation management in organising hiking sports activities in the Al-Ula area within Saudi Arabia. This is done through focusing on the challenges, responsibilities and innovative strategies employed by event managers. The study adopts a qualitative approach within an interpretive paradigm by using a case study strategy to understand the unique context of Al-Ula. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with six event operation managers experienced in managing outdoor adventure activities and thematic analysis was employed to identify key themes from the qualitative data. The findings reveal that successful event operation management for hiking activities hinges on comprehensive planning, effective use of technology, collaboration with local experts and balancing sustainability with participant safety and engagement. Key responsibilities identified include efficient resource allocation, proactive risk management and maintaining participant safety. Major challenges involve logistical difficulties in remote areas, unpredictable environmental conditions and managing diverse participant needs. Innovative strategies such as GPS tracking as well as utilising sustainable materials and local partnerships were highlighted as critical for ensuring smooth and interruption-free hiking events. The study proposes a conceptual framework for adaptive event management for outdoor sports which integrates dynamic risk management, sustainable practices, technology and local expertise to enhance both operational efficiency and participant satisfaction. One main limitation of the research is its narrow geographical scope which is considering solely on hiking activities in Al- Ula. This would limit the generalisability of findings to other locations or types of events. Future research should consider expanding the scope to include diverse geographical areas and applying a mixed-methods approach to further validate the findings. The results contribute to the understanding of effective event management practices in outdoor settings mainly in challenging environments like Al-Ula17 0Item Restricted Sustainable Supply Chain Practices: Benefits and Challenges in the Middle East(Dublin Business School, 2025) Hakami, Abdulaziz; Paul, PJThere is a significance of sustainable supply chain practices (SSCM) have a significant role in reducing environmental impacts. In this case, it enhances brand reputation by facilitating operational profitability. In this case, emerging technologies such as IoT, AI, and blockchain have a significant role in optimising supply chains. The study highlights the critical role of governments and regulatory bodies in developing SSCM practices through policies, frameworks, and incentives like tax benefits. However, challenges such as high costs of advanced technology, lack of sustainability awareness, and inadequate infrastructure hinder adoption. For the research, primary data collection was collected through semi-structured interviews with employees in Middle Eastern industries. It is found that effective regulatory frameworks and incentives facilitate sustainable supply chains which also improve resource efficiency. Sustainable practices like waste reduction and energy-efficient solutions provide significant environmental, economic, and social benefits that achieve global sustainability goals. However, economic and technological challenges are highlighted which emphasize the need for financial incentives, public-private partnerships, technological access, and employee skill development.9 0Item Restricted Interior Design Factors and Energy E ciency in Residential Apartments: A Simulation-based Analysis using IES-VE. Case Study: Jeddah, Saudi Arabia(University of Reading, 2024-09-26) Binzain, Afnan; Essah, Emmanuel; Jones, RoryThis study offers a comprehensive analysis of how interior design factors contribute to the energy efficiency of residential buildings in Jeddah. The motivation behind this research stems from two factors: the increasing energy demand driven by population growth and climate change challenges, and the need for proactive measures to reduce energy consumption in residential buildings. Despite its importance, particularly during the use phase, the role of interior design in energy efficiency is rarely addressed in the literature. Four standard apartments were selected as case studies, all located in the same seven-story building. The objective of this research is to evaluate how interior design parameters—specifically artificial lighting, daylight exposure, and color choices—impact energy efficiency. This analysis is conducted using detailed architectural modeling and simulation with IES-VE software. The results of this study show that incorporating the following interior design factors can lead to significant energy savings: (1) optimizing the quantity, quality, and distribution of artificial lighting, (2) ensuring sufficient daylight illuminance with the use of double-glazed windows and shading devices, and (3) choosing high reflectance color schemes. Implementing these strategies can reduce lighting energy consumption by 23 percent, and total energy consumption by 3.4 percent to 4.6 percent annually. However, these results depend on maintaining sufficient space between buildings to allow for adequate daylight, which may require policy consideration. Therefore, one of the key recommendations of this paper is to make real estate developers aware of the importance of interior design features during the design and construction phases. Additionally, ensuring appropriate building distances in new districts is crucial to optimize daylight use and foster a more sustainable environment .25 0Item Restricted Attitudes and Perceptions of English Language Teachers at Umm Al-Qura University in Saudi Arabia Towards Integrating Sustainability Topics into the English Language Curriculum and its Potential Impact on Students' Learning(University of Essex, 2024-09-18) Alharthi, Saad; Gkonou, ChristinaThis dissertation investigates English language teachers' attitudes and perceptions towards integrating sustainability topics at Umm Al-Qura University's English Language Institute (ELI). It addresses the under-researched area of sustainability in English Language Teaching (ELT) within the Saudi Arabian context. Employing a holistic approach, the study explores the factors influencing teachers' acceptance and implementation of sustainability education, considering the impact on students' learning skills. The research examines teachers' attitudes, potential demographic influences, perceived impacts on students, and challenges and opportunities related to sustainability integration. By providing empirical evidence from a specific cultural context, the study fills a gap in the literature and aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The findings contribute to informing curriculum development, teacher training, and policy decisions to advance sustainability education in Saudi Arabia and beyond.43 0Item Restricted Parametric Analysis and Life Cycle Cost Assessment for Optimizing PCM Application in Exterior Walls in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia(Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, 2024-11) Alamri, Uthman; James, JonesThe Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) aims to reduce CO2 emissions and mitigate its environmental impact as part of Vision 2030. The building sector has high energy consumption, particularly due to elevated cooling demands, which make up 70% of residential energy use. This is largely caused by uninsulated thermal mass and subsidized electricity rates. In addition, Vision 2030’s housing projects and labor shortage necessitate alternatives to current housing standards. Modular housing offers a solution to the labor shortage, but its success depends on lighter materials. This study proposes replacing thermal mass with PCM in modular housing and, investigates this using EnergyPlus simulations. The research investigated the optimal placement and thickness of PCM to maximize its thermal performance in SIPs. PCM application reduced the model total site energy by 12.9% to 13.7% with a thickness of 0.5–2.0 cm and significantly reduced the HVAC energy consumption by 37% to 39%. In this study, we developed LCCA models to assess the cost-effectiveness of PCM by establishing a price range per square foot that aligns with the energy savings that are usable in the KSA. This study also identified the maximum PCM production cost based on the LCCA analysis to ensure its investment use in KSA's construction industry.24 0Item Restricted Exploring the Role of Strategic Management Accounting in Enhancing Organizational Performance: A Comprehensive Literature Review(Swansea University, 2024-09) Alfaddah, Zuhair; Ojra, JafarThis dissertation explores the role of Strategic Management Accounting (SMA) in enhancing organizational performance through a comprehensive review of existing literature. SMA, which integrates financial and non-financial information with long-term strategic goals, is positioned as a critical tool for improving decision-making and maintaining competitive advantage. Key techniques such as Activity-Based Costing (ABC), the Balanced Scorecard (BSC), Target Costing, and Benchmarking are examined for their contributions to aligning management accounting with broader business strategies. The study identifies SMA’s potential to improve resource allocation, cost control, and performance measurement by linking accounting practices with strategic objectives. However, the successful implementation of SMA is challenged by factors such as complexity, high implementation costs, and resistance to cultural change within organizations. These barriers, especially prevalent in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), underscore the importance of tailoring SMA techniques to specific organizational needs and fostering cross-functional collaboration. The dissertation also highlights gaps in the literature, particularly the under-exploration of SMA in service industries and its integration with emerging business trends such as sustainability and digital transformation. Recommendations are provided for practitioners on how to overcome implementation barriers, invest in data infrastructure, and integrate SMA into strategic planning processes. In conclusion, while SMA offers significant benefits for improving long-term competitiveness and decision-making, its effectiveness depends on the organization's ability to align SMA practices with strategic goals, adapt to evolving market conditions, and overcome operational and cultural challenges. The study suggests areas for further research, including the application of SMA in non- manufacturing industries and its role in supporting sustainability initiatives24 0