Al-Balad District Project

This project exemplified Dustin & Partners’ expertise in blending modern technology with cultural preservation, enabling the protection of one of Saudi Arabia’s most treasured heritage sites while supporting sustainable tourism and cultural engagement.

Client: Ministry of Culture, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Project Location: Al Balad, Historic Jeddah

Scope: Heritage Structure Monitoring, Environmental Impact Assessment, and Data Collection Systems

Dustin & Partners was commissioned through Sky Specialized Co. One of our partners by the Ministry of Culture to provide advanced monitoring and preservation solutions for the Al Balad district in Historic Jeddah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative to preserve and promote its cultural heritage, the project required specialized instrumentation to ensure the long-term structural integrity of the historic buildings while minimizing environmental impact.

Our role in this prestigious project involved implementing state-of-the-art monitoring systems to protect the centuries-old structures from natural and human-induced risks. Key focus areas included:

Structural Health Monitoring (SHM): We deployed a network of non-intrusive strain gauges, crack monitors, and displacement sensors across key historic buildings in Al Balad. These sensors provided real-time data on the structural integrity of the buildings, tracking any shifts or deformations that could affect their stability. This was critical for preserving the unique architectural features of the site.

Geotechnical Monitoring: To safeguard against subsidence and foundation issues, we installed inclinometers and settlement gauges to monitor ground stability in the areas surrounding the historic buildings. This ensured that any shifts in the soil or underground water levels were detected early, preventing potential damage to the foundations of these ancient structures

Vibration and Noise Monitoring: Given the proximity of modern urban activities, we installed sensitive vibration and noise monitoring systems to measure the impact of nearby construction and traffic on the fragile heritage buildings. This helped in regulating activities that could pose a threat to the preservation of the historic district.

Environmental Monitoring: To preserve the aesthetic and environmental quality of Al Balad, we implemented air quality monitoring systems to track pollution levels and mitigate potential impacts on the heritage site. Additionally, temperature and humidity sensors were installed to monitor climate conditions, which are crucial for the preservation of materials such as stone, wood, and plaster that are susceptible to deterioration in the region’s harsh climate.

Data Collection and Management: Our data platform aggregated sensor data from across the district, providing the Ministry of Culture with a comprehensive, real-time view of the site’s condition. The platform also allowed for historical data analysis, predictive maintenance, and the generation of reports that informed the Ministry’s decisions on preservation efforts.

Post-monitoring Preservation and Maintenance: Following the initial deployment of the monitoring systems, Dustin & Partners continued to provide ongoing maintenance and data analysis to ensure the long-term protection of Al Balad’s cultural assets. Regular reports were delivered to the Ministry of Culture to guide restoration efforts and ensure that preservation goals were being met.