FAQs

No, the Saudi Building Code addresses engineering aspects (structural, electrical, mechanical…), while the Saudi Architecture guidelines focus solely on exterior design—colors, ornamentation, and architectural elements—without conflicting with building code requirements.

Compliance with the Saudi Architecture guidelines is mandatory for obtaining construction permits. Any new project must comply, and non-compliant projects will not receive approval.

The design guidelines for Saudi Architecture have been applied beginning with major projects, governmental buildings, commercial buildings, and residential villas. The first phase covers Al-Ahsa, Taif, Abha, and Makkah, with subsequent phases to be announced.

A project submission manual is currently being developed to support the review process for the design guidelines.

All buildings without an issued construction permit are required to apply the design guidelines.

A spatial documentation of the authentic and diverse architecture across the Kingdom’s regions, highlighting the unique architectural identity of each area based on its geographical, urban, cultural, and climatic characteristics. The map showcases traditional construction methods and illustrates how they can inspire modern architectural designs, ensuring the continuity of these styles in the contemporary Saudi urban landscape.

The design guidelines for Saudi Architecture have been applied in major projects, government buildings, commercial buildings, and residential villas during the first phase in Al-Ahsa, Taif, Abha, and Makkah. Additional phases covering other cities will be announced later.

The guidelines are applied to major, governmental, commercial, and residential villa projects in the first phase in Al-Ahsa, Taif, Abha, and Makkah. Additional phases for the rest of the cities will be announced later.