The Aleyon City Center Oasis: Preserving Madinah's Heritage
Objectives
The Aleyon City Center Oasis aims to preserve Madinah’s heritage and environment by creating a unique blend of farming, business, and residential spaces. Rooted in the historical Laayoune area, the project seeks to honor the city’s origins as a site of abundant water resources and fertile farmland while immersing visitors and residents in the original landscape of Madinah. The initiative also strives to promote local food resources and increase awareness of cultural and environmental preservation.
Scope and key Action
The project focuses on preserving and promoting iconic local food resources, particularly the Ajwa date, alongside other deeply rooted products integral to Madinah’s identity. The “Oasis” will act as a hub where tradition, education, and innovation converge to strengthen community ties and collaboration. Key actions include:
- Promoting sustainable practices such as using date palm for basket weaving, wood carving, and natural dye preparation.
- Highlighting traditional foods as sources of nutritious and healthy meals.
- Developing experiential initiatives that connect visitors and residents with Madinah’s historical and cultural landscape.
Stakeholders
The Aleyon City Center Oasis involves diverse stakeholders the Medina’s UNESCO Creative City candidature: Educational Institutions – Islamic University of Madinah, Taibah University, Ajwati Academy -, Government Entities – Ministry of Culture, Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture -, and Local Partners – Al Haidari Factory and Madinah Heritage organizations.
Expected Outcomes
The project is expected to achieve the following outcomes:
- Enhanced preservation of Madinah’s cultural and environmental heritage.
- Greater community engagement and collaboration through educational and cultural initiatives.
- Increased awareness and adoption of sustainable practices in agriculture, crafts, and food production.
- Promotion of local food products, including the Ajwa date, as cultural and economic assets.
- Creation of a unique visitor experience that connects them to the heritage of the Laayoune area.
Impact
The Aleyon City Center Oasis is expected to leave a lasting impact by fostering a deeper connection to Madinah’s heritage and environment. It will serve as a model for integrating tradition with innovation, promoting sustainable living, and strengthening the sense of community among residents and visitors. Through its initiatives, the project will contribute to the preservation of cultural identity while driving environmental and economic sustainability in the region.
