Al-Alkhalaf: A traditional defensible settlement of southwestern Saudi Arabia

Prior to the unification of Saudi Arabia in 1932, inter-tribal raiding was customary among the inhabitants of the Arabian Peninsula. Although in conflict with Islamic teachings, the practice continued due to cultural norms and harsh living conditions. Because of this, a defensible settlement was imperative. This work presents a traditional defensible settlement in southwestern Saudi Arabia. Al-Alkhalaf is a fine example of such a settlement due to its agricultural economy, compact spatial pattern, and distinguished qasabah and sabat. These physical elements are examined along with others to demonstrate how the total environment was planned and implemented to provide maximum security. The role of the social structure in its development as well as the effect of the resulting environment on the society is also discussed. It is concluded that a study of the traditional defensible settlement can contribute to todayʹs planning efforts to provide security to the modern community.