Alula A Pilot Mapping of Intangible Cultural Heritage

Abstract

Alula’s old town, a key cultural destination within Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, derives its significance from its historical depth, strategic position along the pilgrimage route, and role as a historic trade valley. This dissertation aims to examine how the preservation of its intangible cultural heritage can be balanced with sustainable tourism development. It seeks to document and analyze the oral traditions, narratives, and lived experiences of Alula’s residents to understand the cultural and social significance of the old town, while also assessing the impact of revitalization and adaptive reuse initiatives led by the Royal Commission for Alula (RCU) since 2018 on heritage preservation and community engagement . Through mapping and identifying heritage sites and spaces linked to cultural practices, rituals, and social gatherings, the research highlights the role of these places in shaping the town’s identity. It also explores intergenerational and visitor perspectives, revealing how cultural memory and tourism aspirations interact in the old town. By evaluating the strategies employed for conservation and tourism, the study provides insight into how Alula can serve as a model for sustainable cultural development . Employing a mixed-methods approach—including personal interviews, workshops, surveys, and pilot mapping—the research captures multiple perspectives, showing that younger residents view the old town as a cultural and tourism asset, while elders emphasize its traditions and communal practices. Mapping identified heritage sites connected to rituals and events, providing a framework to assess RCU’s architectural and reuse strategies. Ultimately, the study reflects decades of preservation efforts, demonstrating how the old town presents its heritage to diverse audiences while balancing accessibility with cultural and visual authenticity, positioning Alula as a model for integrating cultural preservation with sustainable development.