Toward the Humanization of Outdoor Spaces in Hot-Arid Climates: An AI-Aided Parametric Approach at King Saud University

In hot-arid climate zones, university outdoor spaces are often underutilized due to environmental challenges, many of which could be addressed through a wide range of AI tools. This study addresses the central issue by employing a combination of descriptive-analytical and experimental methodologies to explore strategies for enhancing the environmental humanization of campus outdoor spaces. The theoretical framework underscores the importance of integrating social, functional, spatial, climatic, material, and technological considerations, while highlighting the potential of AI-aided tools to support designers in overcoming these challenges. The experimental phase applies a parametric approach with AI-assisted decision-making to redesign an external plaza at the female campus of King Saud University in Riyadh. Simulation results show a significant reduction in the Universal Thermal Climate Index (UTCI), lowering thermal stress in critical areas from “extreme” to “moderate” during peak summer conditions. These findings highlight the importance of embedding humanization principles into campus design. They also demonstrate how AI tools can support environmental research workflows and evidence-based, human-centered design in thermally challenging environments.