Faisal, Emir of Makkah, has ordered that all buildings in the vicinity of the Grand Mosque heed the “traditional Makkah-style of architecture” both inside and out while conforming to international standards of modern construction. According to the regional head of the Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities, the Emir's orders seek to “preserve the old Makkan Islamic style of architecture” and give the area a “pleasing aesthetic appearance to evoke the spirituality of the place”. “At the same time,” Muhammad Al-Amri said, “all modern conditions and standards must be met in terms of safety features and other requirements.” He said the order entailed both the external facades and interior décor of residential and commercial buildings and tower blocks to “recall the ancient historic eras of Makkah”.
