Saudi Cultural Missions Theses & Dissertations
Permanent URI for this communityhttps://drepo.sdl.edu.sa/handle/20.500.14154/10
Browse
3 results
Search Results
Item Restricted How tour guides interpret and present cultural heritage: a case study in Historic Jeddah, a World Heritage Site in Saudi Arabia?(University of Sheffeild, 2024) Sayegh, Shaima; Fennelly, KatherineThe interpretation provided by tour guides at heritage sites is essential for helping visitors appreciate, understand and recognise the value of preservation. Historic Jeddah, one of the most significant World Heritage Sites in Saudi Arabia, holds great historical importance as the gateway to the two holy cities of Islam. However, a major challenge facing this site is the pressure of tourism. Effective interpretation by tour guides can play a pivotal role in addressing this challenge. This research used Historic Jeddah as a case study to examine how tour guides interpret and present cultural heritage and whether they contribute to advocating for its preservation. The research investigated how tour guides convey cultural heritage to visitors, what information and stories they share and how they create an enjoyable experience that leaves visitors with a distinct sense of the heritage's value. It used qualitative methods by conducting online interviews with two tour guides who regularly lead tours in Historic Jeddah. Results indicate that the heritage interpretation of tour guides has the potential to create a pleasant experience for visitors, leading them to recognise the importance of preserving both the tangible and intangible aspects of cultural heritage.39 0Item Restricted Witnessing Timelessness: Revitalizing Heritage Tourism in The Ruins of Saudi Arabia(Rhode Island University, 2024-06-01) Habis, Reem; Wong, Liliane; Shoaib, Jehanzeb; Khan, Hassan UddinWell-known historic sites in Saudi Arabia, such as Historic Jeddah, are designated as heritage, meaning they are protected from deterioration over time. However, in the Aseer region, there are over 4500 unprotected modest sites that provide an integral sense of identity and authenticity to the culture of not just this region, but the entire Kingdom. The absence of preservation guidelines has left these sites vulnerable to indiscriminate developments attempting revitalization. Undesignated heritage sites must be safeguarded and rehabilitated rather than neglected and left at risk of further decay, especially with the encroachment of tourism. To preserve the sites’ authenticity and existing structures, this thesis proposes a collection of non-invasive physical and digital design strategies that aim to revitalize these unprotected but culturally significant sites with minimally undisruptive interventions. By repurposing these structures to contemporary uses, such as open-air museums, they shall remain active, integral to the community, and seamlessly integrated into the contemporary urban fabric. This thesis uses Watan Emsoudah, an abandoned village on the highest peak of Saudi Arabia, as a prototype to apply these design strategies. A defined walking path will take the visitors in an interactive, immersive, and educational journey through the site; experiencing the past, present and future of what was, what is, and what could be with the use of virtual and augmented reality. A place does not have to be an overwhelming monument to be worthy of preservation and visitor attention. This rehabilitation strategy could be extended to a multitude of underprivileged sites, ensuring their longevity, engagement, and forms of protection. Ultimately, this approach aims to promote heritage tourism, attracting both tourists and locals to learn about the region’s history and cultural heritage.21 0Item Restricted Why Use Innovative Engineering Systems to Reimagine, and Revive the Ancient Islamic Craft Intarsia?(The University of the Arts London, 2024-06-20) Alamoudi, Ghada; Wright, ElizabethThis review explores the "innovative engineering systems" encompassing a range of modern technologies and techniques applied to the traditional craft of Intarsia woodworking. This includes advancements in joinery methods, and fabrication processes that enhance the craft's efficiency, flexibility, and structural integrity. The term "revival" refers to the process of breathing new life into a craft that may have faced decline or stagnation, while "re-imagination" involves exploring new creative possibilities and applications for the craft within contemporary contexts. By employing innovative engineering systems, the review seeks to preserve the cultural heritage embodied in Intarsia while also adapting it to meet the demands and challenges of the modern world.18 0