Enhancing Riyadh’s Public Realm through Socio-Cultural Urban Codes: The Case of Al-Khazzan Street in Al-Deera District.

Abstract

Riyadh’s rapid urban growth has frequently overlooked socio-cultural values, leading to the deterioration of public spaces in historic areas like Al-Deera. Al-Khazzan Street, once a vibrant connector, currently suffers from deficient pedestrian infrastructure and a fragmented identity. This study examines the integration of socio-cultural dimensions into Riyadh’s urban codes to revitalise the public realm.

Employing a qualitative single-case methodology, the research integrates policy reviews, field observations, interviews, and GIS analysis to evaluate regulatory frameworks and user experiences. The findings indicate that current codes inadequately represent local norms, including privacy, hospitality, and collective identity, resulting in underutilised spaces.

The study proposes context-sensitive code enhancements to improve walkability, preserve cultural traditions, and promote social inclusivity. The research offers practical recommendations and a theoretical framework to assist in the revitalisation of Al-Khazzan Street and other historic districts in Riyadh by aligning planning regulations with community values, thereby supporting Vision 2030 objectives of identity and liveability.