2026-10-14T04:18:01Z https://api.figshare.com/v2/oai

oai:figshare.com:article/32805935 2026-10-01T16:11:45Z portal_1172 item_type_8 month_year_10_2026

Designing the Future Port Experience: Architectural Typologies, Space, Place, Technologies and Rituals of Cruise Tourism on the Red Sea May Saeedi (24293030) PUREID: 692765220 Future Port Tourism Experience Architectural Typologies Red Sea ports Cruise Tourism Cruise ports Space, and Place Research by Design Rituals of Cruise This thesis examines ports as transitional spaces that shape user experience, as complex urban and cultural spaces where logistical functions intersect with contemporary human experience. A significant lack of literature has been observed concerning port spaces and transit experiences, as well as the factors influencing them, including visual sequencing, boundaries, identity, culture, and the sensory experience of tourists and users within these spaces, in addition to their future roles. Jeddah is used as a case study to frame the changes between the past and present in the port arrival experience.<br>To achieve a deeper understanding of these spaces and develop future port typology models that transcend traditional understandings, this study employs research by design methodology as a flexible research tool. It combines mixed qualitative approaches, such as case studies, ethnographic studies (including mind mapping and drawing maps), and interviews. The study contributed to expanding the use of these analytical tools and developing and testing them through exploratory design scenarios based on speculative design theory within the framework of "what if" questions, resulting in the generation of new themes and cognitive patterns for future ports.<br>The results revealed that contemporary ports produce fragmented movement patterns and rigid boundaries that reinforce a sense of "non-place" perceived as operational structures, a "big shed" with a specific transit function. Alternatively, historical experiences have provided a more coherent experience of perception, identity, and continuity. This research resulted in two types of contributions: (1) emerging spatial typological themes, including Dissolving Boundaries, Hybrid Port Space, and Port Symbolism; and (2) a methodological approach that develops a visual and exploratory methodology contributes by employing imaginative scenarios and vignettes as tools for knowledge production of future ports and their relation to the city. The study opens the door to a more flexible and nuanced understanding of transitional spaces within the contemporary Saudi context and globally.<br> 2026-10-01T16:11:45Z Text Thesis 10.17034/32805935.v1 https://figshare.com/articles/thesis/Designing_the_Future_Port_Experience_Architectural_Typologies_Space_Place_Technologies_and_Rituals_of_Cruise_Tourism_on_the_Red_Sea/32805935 All Rights Reserved