المملكة: Banning flashing lighting…a new policy for advertisements and commercial signs in Al-Jawf

The Strategic Office for the Development of the Al-Jawf Region proposed a policy of regulating identities Illuminated and unlit commercial signs in the region, as one of the regulatory and development initiatives aimed at controlling the visual landscape, reducing urban distortions, and achieving a balance between commercial requirements and aesthetic and cultural considerations.

The Strategic Office for the Development of the Al-Jawf Region confirmed that the new policy stems from a growing awareness of the importance of the visual landscape in shaping the impression of residents and visitors about cities, and its direct role in the quality of life, the attractiveness of investment, and the strengthening of local identity.

He explained That spread Random commercial signs, their varying designs, sizes, and colors, and the different lighting patterns used in them, often lead to distortion of urban facades, and confusion of the city’s visual identity, in addition to its negative impact on traffic safety and visual comfort.

The office stated that the policy is based on an in-depth study of the urban classification in the Al-Jawf region, where the region was divided into three main classifications: Commercial areas, administrative areas, and historical areas. This division is based on the approved planning standards, which take into account land uses, urban character, urban density, and the nature of the prevailing activities in each area.

He pointed out that this classification is not a formal procedure, but rather represents the cornerstone for understanding the urban and functional characteristics of each area, and determining the type of commercial signage that is most appropriate for it in terms of shape, size, location, and type of lighting. It also enables the competent authorities, investors and owners of commercial activities to apply the appropriate technical and regulatory standards for each urban environment, in a way that achieves visual harmony that reflects the identity of the city of Sakaka and the centers of the Al-Jawf region.

He stressed that the policy aims to unify the visual vision within the cities, and achieve urban harmony that balances modernity and local identity, provided that the study of urban classification is followed by detailed chapters devoted to the technical specifications of the signs, their different types, and their installation mechanisms, in a way that ensures the integration of the urban content with the function. Commercial without conflict or distortion.

The office explained that the commercial areas are considered one of the most vibrant urban areas in the city of Sakaka, where economic and commercial activities are concentrated, and witness heavy movement of citizens, residents, and visitors throughout the day.

These areas are spread with shops, restaurants, cafes, and major commercial centers, especially on the main axes such as King Abdulaziz Road and Prince Nayef bin Abdulaziz Road, which makes them an economic and visual interface for the city at the same time.

He explained that illuminated signs constitute an essential element in these areas, due to their role in highlighting commercial activities and attracting the attention of passers-by, especially during the evening periods.

However, the policy stressed at the same time the necessity of regulating the use of these signs in terms of dimensions, prominence, type of lighting, and installation locations, in a way that prevents visual congestion or excessive glare, and ensures that it does not negatively impact traffic safety or the comfort of road users.

He pointed out that the policy prefers the use of materials in commercial areas. Durable, with a natural appearance, such as treated wood, matte metal, or matte acrylic within well-studied limits, while avoiding glossy plastic or full glass facades that may reflect light annoyingly.

The policy set a ceiling for the dimensions of the panels and their protrusion from the level of the facade, so that the height of the panel is proportional to the height of the architectural facade of the store, and its prominence does not exceed the limits that disturb the general harmony of the commercial street.

With regard to lighting, the policy clarified that warm backlighting or lighting Direct focus on the letters is considered one of the preferred options, provided that warm, calm colors are adhered to, and the use of flashing or color-changing lighting is prohibited, as it has a negative impact on the general scene.

It emphasized that the signs should be installed vertically on the main facade of the store, and at a height consistent with the neighboring stores, in a way that enhances visual harmony between the different activities.

The office stressed that the commercial signs in these areas must reflect the transitional architectural character of northern Najdi, while encouraging the use of authentic Arabic fonts or modern fonts. Inspired by the aesthetics of Arabic calligraphy, and adhering to earthy or warm complementary colors that are in harmony with the colors of the facades, while avoiding bright or neon colors.

The office pointed out that commercial signs are part of legitimate competition between commercial activities, but this competition must take place within organized frameworks that ensure visual justice and prevent unregulated takeover of public space.

It stressed that adherence to controls and standards contributes to creating a more organized and attractive commercial environment, enhances consumer confidence, and reduces visual chaos that may negatively reflect on the city’s image.

He pointed out that modern technologies, such as smart signs and remote control systems, have become It is present in some major commercial centers, but its use is also subject to the same controls, with an emphasis that the lighting should not be annoying or distracting, especially in areas near traffic intersections or residential neighborhoods.

With regard to the administrative areas, the Strategic Office for the Development of the Al-Jawf Region explained that these areas embrace a number of government facilities and official institutions that represent symbols of public function and the administrative system in the region, such as the complex of government departments, the headquarters of the Emirate of the Al-Jawf Region, the region’s secretariat, the Strategic Office for the Development of Al-Jawf, and the Al-Jouf Chamber, in addition to branches of the Ministries of Justice, Education, Health, and others.

He indicated that the general character of these areas is characterized by calm and order, and they are surrounded by wide streets and organized entrances, which imposes special requirements. On the use of signs there.

Accordingly, the policy stressed the prohibition of the use of commercial or promotional signs that are not directly related to government agencies or service objectives, while limiting it to fixed signs that are mostly not illuminated, and which bear the names of official bodies or general instructions for visitors.

He pointed out that the policy allows in some locations the use of informational or awareness boards of an official nature, such as health or security campaigns or national initiatives, provided that they are compatible with the general character of the area in terms of Color, size, and location, and that it does not contain moving elements or dazzling lighting that might distract attention or affect the quiet work environment.

He stressed that the installation of any sign in these areas is subject to multiple approvals from the competent authorities, and is monitored in terms of quality, content, and method of installation, taking into account not blocking the view or interfering with safety elements such as traffic lights and official entrances. The policy also stressed that lighting – if used – should be soft and indirect, and serve the functional purpose without any showy appearance.

The office explained that signs in administrative areas must reflect seriousness and balance, and be designed according to a simplified approach that is in harmony with the northern Najdi style, using clear lines and neutral and calm colors, in a way that preserves the prestige of the administrative site and prevents visual confusion.

As for the historical areas, the office confirmed that the city of Sakaka includes a number of prominent historical and cultural sites that represent a cultural depth extending back thousands of years, such as Zaabal Castle, the old Sakaka Market, and a number of nearby historical villages. He stressed that dealing with these sites must be done with great sensitivity, given their historical, cultural and architectural value.

He indicated that the policy does not allow the presence of commercial signs within these areas, except in limited cases related to the services of visitors or tourists, such as restaurants, museums or tourist guide centres, and even these are subject to a strict aesthetic and heritage framework.

He stressed the preference for using unlit signs, made of natural materials such as wood or stone, and in earthy colors that are in harmony with The architectural fabric of the place.

He pointed out that the design of signs in historical areas must be based on authentic Arabic calligraphy, and must carry introductory or awareness messages related to the historical site itself, such as explaining the history of the site or its cultural importance.

It is strictly prohibited to install electronic screens or signs with strong lighting near historical sites, as this has a negative impact on the visual and cultural environment.

The office confirmed that the signs in these areas are considered part of the cultural experience. For the visitor, and not just a media outlet, which requires the involvement of heritage specialists when planning any visual intervention.

He explained that this policy contributes to protecting cultural identity and promoting sustainable tourism, by preserving the authenticity of the historical scene and preventing its distortion by extraneous elements.