The article explores the intersection of sustainability, cultural heritage, and immersive design through the development of a temporary (pop-up) museum installation in Al’Ula, Saudi Arabia. The project aims to revitalise the way society interacts with the natural world and cultural heritage, in line with the vision of the Royal Commission for Al’Ula (RCU) and UNESCO. The innovation lies in the integration of advanced technologies, local sustainable materials (such as 3D printed sand), and a modular design to create a temporary space that promotes correct environmental awareness through sensorial interaction. The archaeological area of Al’Ula is subject to increasing environmental pressures due to rapid population growth and climate change, with consequences for biodiversity and ecosystems.
Expected outcomes include a greater understanding of sustainability challenges and an inspiration for collective action towards a more resilient future, demonstrating how living heritage can inform sustainable development globally. The installation, therefore, represents a concrete example of how the concept of “Urban/Nomadic” can inspire new ways of interaction between society, environment, and culture.
