Mujassam Urban Sculpture Challenge – Architecture Competition
Thawa Sea Front, Al Khobar, Saudia Arabia – August 2025
Siraaj Al Mustaqbal
A Sculptural Icon for the Future of Al-Khobar and Saudi Arabi
As part of the prestigious “Mujassam Watan – Urban Sculpture Challenge” competition, we are honored to present our project, “Siraj Al Mustaqbal,” which translates to “The Lighthouse of the Future.” We envision this work as a humble contribution aimed at helping to redefine the new, dynamic, and exceptional identity of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Specifically designed for the iconic Tharwa waterfront site in Al-Khobar, our concept is a sculptural response in the broadest sense, meeting all the competition’s requirements.
A Convergence of Past, Present, and Future
This site isn’t just a location; it’s a true crossroads. It is a unique meeting point where the vibrant modernity of the Eastern Province dialogues with its ancient cultural heritage. Far from being a simple, monolithic sculpture, our project reveals itself as an urban development—a true “architectural sculpture.”
It’s composed of 14 distinct pieces that interact to create an immersive space. This installation, enriched with sound and visual elements, is designed not only to be seen but also to be experienced. At the heart of this composition, the lighthouse and its thirteen surrounding alcoves define a public square, whose identity is accentuated by a vast, semi-circular body of water that cradles the lighthouse and poetically reflects its ascent toward the sky.
The Lighthouse of the Future: A Guide to Modernity
The central and most imposing element of our installation is the lighthouse. Its structure rises proudly to a height of 34 meters from the ground, entirely contained within a circular wall 30 meters high. This structural layering creates a unique transitional space, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the work even before reaching the lighthouse itself. The lighthouse’s exterior is made of green wood with an octagonal plan, a material chosen for its warmth and nobility and drawing direct inspiration from traditional Saudi architecture.
Inside the lighthouse, the journey continues. A panoramic elevator is proposed for a slow, contemplative ascent to a belvedere located 25 meters high. As the elevator progresses at a measured speed, visitors are surrounded by videos and sounds projected onto an interior LED screen, transforming the space into a time capsule. These multimedia projections are a narrative of the Kingdom’s fascinating history, from its founding to its vision for the future. They celebrate the heritage, landscapes, and key figures who have shaped modern Saudi Arabia. For reasons of technical feasibility, logistics, maintenance, or budget, an alternative is provided with no loss of experience quality: an elegantly designed spiral staircase with regular resting landings, allowing for a more physical yet equally contemplative ascent.
The Thirteen Provinces: Unity in Diversity
Around the base of the lighthouse, the mineral ground hosts thirteen semi-circular alcoves, each symbolically representing one of the thirteen provinces of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The height of each exedra varies according to the geographical importance of the province.
Moreover, the opening axis of each cocoon is precisely oriented toward the capital of its corresponding province. This intentional orientation creates a strong visual and symbolic link, transforming the work into a physical and emotional map that unites the country’s different regions in one place.
These alcoves are designed as sanctuaries of coolness and tranquility. Visitors, by sitting in them, are invited to turn their backs to the sea and immerse themselves in a careful listening to regional stories. A high-pressure misting system is integrated into each alcove, uniformly projecting micro-droplets of water that create a cool island where the temperature can drop by 5 to 10 degrees Celsius. This ultra-fine mist not only improves thermal comfort but also air quality, enveloping users in an atmosphere conducive to contemplation. While resting and listening to the provincial stories, the lighthouse, with its belvedere, allows one to reconnect with the panoramic view of the sea and the corniche, offering a unique duality of experiences.
The auditory experience is at the heart of each alcove. Sounds and stories specific to each region and its capital are broadcast, offering a sonic journey across the country. The exedra representing Mecca stands out with special attention: its surface is coated in black chrome, contrasting with the classic chrome of the other twelve. This visual distinction underscores the unique and sacred status of this province, reinforcing the installation’s symbolic depth.
Sustainability, Interactivity, and Viability
The “Siraj Al Mustaqbal” project was designed with meticulous attention to the principles of sustainability and environmental respect. For the hottest months, from June to September, we have provided an elegant and ecological solution: a light, removable structure can be mounted around the alcoves. It will support a woven wicker cover, directly inspired by traditional Saudi basketry. This natural covering, which will be woven annually with recycled wicker, will provide beneficial shade and visual softness to the often-harsh environment during this period.
The longevity of the entire work is ensured by the use of noble and durable materials such as granite, marble, stainless steel, and copper. These materials were chosen for their resistance to the extreme climatic conditions of the waterfront, including intense heat and saline air.
The large, 20-meter-diameter body of water that partially surrounds the lighthouse is both a visual anchor and a powerful symbol. It recalls the proximity of the Persian Gulf and the historical and ongoing importance of water in the region’s development and heritage.
In summary, “Siraj Al Mustaqbal” transcends the idea of a simple sculpture. It is a public square that invites dialogue, exchange, and contemplation. Its structural design was conceived for efficient implementation, combining aesthetic excellence with economic viability, thereby ensuring its feasibility.
It’s an invitation to discovery, a bridge between the past and the future, and a space for contemplation and reflection for the residents of Al-Khobar, Saudis, and tourists. It is an audacious projection toward the future that seeks to profoundly honor the unique cultural heritage and universal identity of Saudi Arabia.
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