AZIZIAH DISTRICT URBAN DESIGN PLAN
The Aziziah District in MYAS, Saudi Arabia is located adjacent to a local college, the largest public hospital, and the largest regional retail mall, all within a half-mile of a national highway. The Urban Design framework for the Aziziah District is based on the integration of walkable blocks and the creation of an interconnected network of open spaces. The plan orders the unique geometry by establishing similar-sized walkable blocks with clearly defined street walls that shape the streets and open spaces.
Internal courts above shaded parking structures within each block are open only to the residents of each block. Three parks of various sizes are connected together along a central tree-lined spine that parallels the major boulevard, King Fahad Road. The central space is adjacent to the community mosque and acts as the community gathering space. Elementary schools for boys and girls are located at the northern and southern intersections but away from the main vehicular right of way.
A hotel and office complex acts as the public gateway to the district with active frontages and protected linear open space along with the ground level adjacent to the street. In order to provide shade for pedestrians, shade trees line all the streets while the building facades are brought close together to provide shade in the intense dry heat of the city.
Typology
Urban Design, Masterplan, Mixed-Use, Residential, Commercial, Civic
Location
Madinat Yanbu Al Sinaiyah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Year
2014-2015
Status
In progress
Size
85 Acres
Client
Planning Department, Royal Commission
Collaborators
Saudi Parsons
Design Team
Farooq Ameen