Beit Al-Manoufy

Beit Al-Manoufy as an example of the role of architecture in preserving a country's heritage and culture.

Located in Al-Balad, Jeddah's historic downtown recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014, the Beit Al-Manoufy guesthouse is an example of the local Hijazi architecture. In order to protect this iconic heritage building while promoting culture and art, Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Culture commissioned Saudi and international heritage architects and exhibition designers (Urban Phenomena, Christophe Martin Architects, La Meduse) to transform the abandoned guesthouse into a permanent museum and music center. The building now hosts the Tariq Abdulhakim Center, whose name pays tribute to the preeminent Saudi Arabian musician. The Center includes a museum showcasing a selection of the late artist's works and personal belongings, and a music archive center preserving written and audio recordings of Saudi and Arab music.