Celebrating and preserving the traditional dining culture in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

This research endeavors to investigate the pivotal role of industrial design in fostering a harmonious coexistence between traditional Saudi lifestyles and the demands of contemporary life within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The study focuses on identifying innovative approaches for reinterpreting Saudi cultural values, with particular emphasis on the time-honored communal dining practice, where individuals partake in shared meals from a single serving dish. Additionally, it explores strategies for preserving and reinvigorating this cherished tradition in the context of modern Saudi society.

The initial segment of the research delves into the historical backdrop of cultural transformations within the Gulf countries and elucidates the contemporary challenges that pose a threat to the enduring practice of communal dining. Meanwhile, the subsequent section of this study underscores the profound cultural significance of this tradition, ultimately leading to the conceptualization and development of the "Lammah" table. This innovative design solution is tailored to align seamlessly with the needs of contemporary Saudi life, as substantiated by practical experimentation.

- The term "Lammah" finds its roots in the Saudi dialect, symbolizing the essence of unity and togetherness as individuals sit in a circle, leaving no gaps between them. This innovative table design seeks to encapsulate and promote these cherished values, fostering a sense of connection and shared experience in Saudi society.