Jeddah Central Project: Understanding Community Resilience, Adaptation, and Sustainability Through a Participatory Approach

Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, has experienced significant growth, especially following the early 70 s oil discovery. The urban layout is gradually transforming to meet economic needs. In 2021, the Jeddah Central Project was initiated as part of Vision 2030. The aim is to preserve Jeddah’s rich history while adapting to modern development. However, the project impacts not only on the physical form and structure of the city but also on its residents. This study seeks to understand how residents adapt to these urban changes and to evaluate their resilience and sustainability. Using both qualitative (questionnaire) and quantitative (in-depth interview) methods, primary data was collected from affected and unaffected residents. Secondary data was drawn from academic literature and technical reports related to the project. The results show that despite facing some challenges, residents generally maintain a positive attitude toward development. Their acceptance of changes, ability to compromise with the new circumstances, and perseverance in challenges emphasize their excellent resilience. The study concludes that effective communication is key to the project’s success. This can be achieved through a participatory approach by empowering community organizations and NGOs, leveraging social media, and developing a simple app as a communication platform to connect the community and stakeholders. While many studies on urban renewal discuss its advantages and disadvantages, this research emphasizes practical solutions that can be applied not only within Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 framework but also to urban renewal projects worldwide. Additionally, it offers insights for scholars, researchers, and stakeholders involved in urban renewal initiatives.