King Salman Charter for Architecture and Urbanism

King Salman Charter for Architecture and Urbanism (KSCAU) is a national Saudi initiative, announced by the Architecture and Design Commission, one of the Ministry of Culture's commissions, in a ceremony held at Tuwaiq Palace in the Diplomatic Quarter of Riyadh, the capital of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, on December 1, 2021.

The initiative aims to define the vision of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, for architecture and local design, which in turn reflects Saudi Arabia's historical and cultural identity.

The vision of King Salman Charter for Architecture and Urbanism is based on the development of a national approach to achieve urban uniqueness and excellence, in addition to improving the quality of life through the creation of urban environments whose designs are inspired by the authenticity of the region's history, culture, and environment, while also keeping up with upcoming changes and development in urbanism.

King Salman Charter for Architecture and Urbanism consists of several fundamental principles that have been researched, drawn out, and presented as a strategy for the architectural and urban community. These principles include: stimulating urban authenticity by developing urban and architectural environments and spaces, preserving national identity, and respecting the past while keeping up with urban growth and development. Another principle entails recognizing the human being as the primary axis in the field of urban design, as well as focusing on improving the quality of life by fostering a safe, secure, and appealing environment, encouraging innovation, discovery, pursuing new opportunities, and promoting sustainability by preserving and enhancing environmental, social, and economic life.

The first phase of the strategy of the King Salman Charter for Architecture and Urbanism has been activated and includes a variety of initiatives, services, and incentives, such as the Charter Document, the Exhibition, and the Award. The Charter Document was published in a book titled King Salman Charter for Architecture and Urbanism, which details creative innovations in the Kingdom's fields of urbanization and architecture, starting from the planning stage to subsequent phases and through the building’s completion. The book serves as a reference for the urban community.

King Salman Charter for Architecture and Urbanism also offers a mobile exhibition in the Kingdom that travels through the cities of Riyadh, Dammam, Jeddah, and Abha. This exhibition introduces visitors and those who are interested in the Charter's strategy, projects, values, and objectives while giving them the chance to learn about its diverse applications.

King Salman Charter for Architecture and Urbanism has an Award granted to projects that excel in achieving the Charter's values and make a significant social impact. The Award consists of three categories: built projects, unbuilt projects, and students’ design projects.

King Salman Charter for Architecture and Urbanism Initiative offers many incentives and services, including: Guided Architectural Tours, Smart Research Toolbox, My Little Architect Academy, and the King Salman Charter for Architecture and Urbanism Exhibition.

In terms of communication and conferences, the Charter offers the King Salman Charter for Architecture and Urbanism Audiovisual Content, the Community Platform, the Ideas Contribution Portal, the Learning and Connecting Minds Cafe, the Research and Design Lab, in addition to KSCAU Competitions, KSCAU Award, KSCAU Certification Program, and KSCAU Ambassadors.