How memory is preserved through the redevelopment of Jeddah?

Abstract

Through analytically studying certain areas in Jeddah that are approved to be demolished, we can observe ways residents deal with loss and how they preserve their memories during the building’s final moments. This dissertation investigates this dynamic relationship between the residents and its developing neighbourhoods. Delving into the philosophical implications of demolition, this dissertation studies what redevelopment of the inner-city areas of Jeddah could mean for its communities and metaphysical landscape of memory. In addition to the resident’s ways of grief, this dissertation finds catharsis for the residents through celebrations and spirituality with their surrounding landscape and cultural context. This dissertation highlights the importance of history, memory, and emotion through times of change in Jeddah. This thesis consists of a historical case study methodology to investigate the Al Rabwah district and its process of demolition relating to its residents and their memories, while utilizing interviews and social media platforms for residents and locals as archives and spaces for locals to express and document their memories. This study contributes to the discourses around the connectivity of memory, identity and heritage specifically looking through Jeddah’s redevelopment, using it as a precedent to understand the importance of memory preservation and for local communities.