Introduction: The Origins and History of Sharafiya Housing
In the heart of Jeddah, specifically in the Sharafiya district, Sharafiya Housing stands as one of the first mega residential projects that changed the concepts of urban planning in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This project was the first of its kind in the city in terms of size and organization, and it is a bold experiment in collective residential planning.
The project was developed during the seventies and eighties, when Jeddah began to expand to meet the needs of its growing population. Sharafiya Housing was built to be a modern model of collective housing, taking into account the balance between high population density and the comfort of residents, making it one of the pioneering projects that influenced the development of future residential neighborhoods in the Kingdom.
Location and Urban Planning of the Projec
Sharafiya Housing is strategically located within the city of Jeddah, surrounded by a network of main roads that facilitate access to various areas of the city. The project is characterized by its integrated design that combines residential spaces and public facilities, as it consists of:
- Gated residential complexes that provide security and privacy for residents.
- Integrated service facilities including schools, mosques, markets, and health centers.
- Green spaces and internal gardens to provide a comfortable and family-friendly environment.
- Organized road network that provides a smooth flow of traffic.
The project is designed to reflect modern standards in urban planning, making it a model to be emulated in future housing projects.
Architectural design and building materials
1. Architectural design:
Al-Sharfiya Housing is characterized by a modern architectural design inspired by the contemporary architectural style, taking into account the local and Gulf character. The project stands out with its architectural style through:
- Medium-rise buildings that reach 5 – 8 floors.
- Facades decorated with local stones and plaster, giving it a modern Arabic character.
- Wide windows and doors allow natural light to pass through and improve ventilation.
- Open balconies and corridors enhance community interaction among residents.
2. Materials used in construction:
The materials used in construction were carefully selected to achieve a balance between quality and sustainability, including:
- Reinforced concrete: to ensure the strength and durability of buildings, with designs that are resistant to earthquakes and high temperatures.
- Natural stones and traditional plaster: to add an aesthetic touch and provide effective thermal insulation.
- Aluminum and reflective glass: in windows and balconies to provide natural lighting and reduce energy consumption.
- Marble and ceramic floors: that combine elegance with the ability to withstand heavy daily use.
Viewpoints from four different sources on Al-Sharfiya Housing
1. Official Saudi sources
According to the Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs, the Al-Sharafiya Housing Project is considered a successful model for planning residential complexes, as it was designed according to advanced standards in line with the Kingdom’s vision for urban development.
2. Academic studies on urban planning
A study published by King Abdulaziz University indicated that Al-Sharafiya Housing was one of the first projects that combined collective housing and sustainable planning, which contributed to improving the quality of life within the city.
3. Press and economic reports
In a report published by Al-Eqtisadiah newspaper, the role of Al-Sharafiya Housing in reducing the cost of housing in Jeddah was highlighted during the project’s boom period, which helped provide affordable housing for large segments of the population.
4. Opinions of residents and the local community
According to opinion polls conducted among the complex’s residents, the positives of the project include safety, availability of services, and a comfortable family environment, while the prominent challenges faced by residents were the need to update some public facilities and develop infrastructure.
The Urban Impact of Al-Sharfiya Housing on Jeddah
Since its establishment, Al-Sharfiya Housing has played a major role in reshaping residential neighborhoods in Jeddah. Among its most important impacts on the city are:
- A prototype for collective housing:
- The complex has become a reference for future housing projects, as many projects have adopted its planning philosophy.
- Its impact on real estate prices:
- It has helped provide affordable housing options during certain periods, allowing a wide segment of citizens to settle in organized neighborhoods.
- Stimulating infrastructure development:
- Due to the large size of the complex, development projects such as improving roads, water and electricity networks, and public facilities have been implemented.
Future Challenges and Rehabilitation
Although Al-Sharfiya Housing is a successful project, it faces challenges that require rehabilitation to ensure its continuity and suitability to the requirements of the modern era. The most prominent of these challenges are:
- Updating old facilities: The need to improve electricity, water, and sewage systems.
- Redesigning internal roads: To alleviate traffic congestion within the complex.
- Increasing green spaces: To enhance quality of life and environmental sustainability.
- Stimulating urban renewal processes: By involving the private sector in development projects.
Conclusion: Why does Al-Sharafiya Housing remain a landmark in Jeddah?
Al-Sharafiya Housing is not just a residential project, but a turning point in the urban development of Jeddah. Thanks to its modern planning, it has been adopted as an inspiration for collective housing projects in the Kingdom, and has been a successful model in reconciling the needs of residents and the capabilities of the infrastructure.
With the rapid transformations that Jeddah is witnessing today, the importance of Rehabilitating Al-Sharafiya Housing emerges to ensure its continuity as an integrated residential community that meets the aspirations of future generations. This area will remain
