DAR05 – Wahat Qiddiya – Mixed-Use Urban Development

Project Overview

Wahat Qiddiya is part of the national Qiddiya megaproject, envisioned as a major cultural and entertainment capital in Saudi Arabia. Completed during my role as Senior Architect – Coordinator at Dar Al Handasah, this 26,000 m² mixed-use development integrates retail, office buildings, public amenities, and pedestrian-oriented spaces. The project delivers a sustainable, strategic vision for an active and connected urban core serving the growing Qiddiya community.

This project highlights skills that align strongly with the needs of an architecture firm in Québec, including large-scale urban planning, mixed-use development, sustainable design, commercial and institutional architecture, and multi-disciplinary coordination.

Responsibilities and Expertise

Detailed Programming

1. Developed comprehensive functional programs for retail, office, service, and public reception spaces across nine major plots.
2. Defined operational needs and spatial relationships aligned with international development standards.

Site Analysis & Urban Integration

1. Conducted in-depth analysis of the desert site and its strategic location adjacent to the future Qiddiya city center.
2. Integrated infrastructure, circulation systems, access routes, and public-realm elements, expertise directly transferable to urban development practices in Québec.

Concept Design & Spatial Organization

1. Established an adaptable modular grid to optimize spatial efficiency and future expansion.
2. Organized parcels around public spaces and pedestrian connections, promoting a high-quality user experience consistent with Canadian urban design expectations.

Main Buildings Designed

Office Buildings

1. Designed to support flexible rental zones with shared amenity spaces.
2. Reflects strong expertise in commercial and corporate architecture.

Retail Buildings

1. Combination of indoor and outdoor rentable spaces.
2. Multiple entrance points to enhance foot traffic.
3. Integrated delivery courtyards for efficient operations.

Fuel Station

1. Technical building including service areas, maintenance rooms, offices, and accessible restrooms.
2. Clear separation of public and service circulation flows.

Massing, Access & Circulation Strategy

1. Developed a dynamic façade strategy responding to climate and program needs.
2. Designed separate, safe circulation routes for vehicles, pedestrians, services, and emergency access—essential for functional and safe mixed-use developments.

Sustainability & Environmental Performance

1. Implemented solar-orientation strategies, shaded public areas, and passive comfort solutions.
2. Selected materials compliant with RDA standards, paralleling LEED-aligned approaches commonly used in Québec.
3. Enhanced environmental performance through reduced thermal gain and climate-responsive massing.

Technical Coordination

1. Ensured full integration of MEP systems, fire safety requirements, parking solutions, and signage strategies.
2. Coordinated closely with structural, mechanical, electrical, and safety consultants—reflecting advanced experience in multi-disciplinary collaboration.

Technical Documentation

1. Planned and produced detailed architectural drawings, technical documents, and specifications for each building and plot.
2. Delivered precise documentation consistent with international and Canadian architectural standards.