Azzal Market

Client: Riyadh Municipality
Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Built-up Area: 38,000 m²
Services Provided: Landscape Architecture | Planning & Urban Design

Challenge:
The challenge was to transform AZZAL Market into a modern, vibrant cultural landmark while preserving its historical and cultural significance. The project had to balance the traditional identity of the market with the need to integrate modern infrastructure and operations, ensuring it could meet contemporary demands and attract investment. Additionally, the market needed to serve as a key economic and social hub that reflects the goals of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.

Approach:
The approach centered around an extensive analysis of the market’s social, historical, and economic value. Dr. Sami led community engagement workshops with artisans, specialists, and local stakeholders to ensure cultural authenticity. This collaborative approach helped inform the design process, allowing for a modernized market that still respected its roots. The project focused on enhancing the market’s infrastructure, surrounding landscape, and accessibility, while incorporating traditional elements to maintain its cultural identity. Modernization efforts included improving operations to make the market more attractive to investors and visitors.

Impact:
The project successfully bridged tradition and modernity, creating a market that honors its cultural heritage while serving as a dynamic, modern economic driver. AZZAL Market has become a vibrant cultural landmark, contributing to the revitalization of the area and aligning with the economic goals of Vision 2030. It now stands as a symbol of how thoughtful design can integrate the old with the new, enriching the local community and attracting investment, while preserving the rich cultural fabric of Riyadh.