Geography, Planning and Development, Social Sciences, Urban Studies, Transportation
28
Scopus Publications
25
Scholar Citations
4
Scholar h-index
Scopus Publications
A Framework for Designing and Assessing Sustainable Urban Public Open Spaces: Community Parks Enhancing Quality of Life in Saudi Arabia Sara Qwaider, Mohammad Sharif Zami, Baqer M. Al-Ramadan, Mohammad A. Hassanain, Amer Al-Kharoubi Urban Science, 2026 Urban community parks are important public open spaces (POSs) that support residents’ quality of life (QoL) by aiding recreation, social interaction, and physical activity. However, evidence on how to design and assess sustainable POS in Saudi Arabia remains limited, particularly in relation to the country’s hot–arid climate, socio-cultural context, and emerging urban development priorities. This study aims to develop a context-sensitive framework for the design and assessment of sustainable POSs (a scope of urban community parks) in Saudi Arabia using a mixed-methods approach. The study combined: (i) a structured review of the literature on POSs’ sustainability and QoL/subjective well-being (SWB); (ii) naturalistic field observations in two community parks in Al-Khobar (Shells Park and Prince Ibn-Jalawy Park); (iii) an on-site questionnaire survey of park users assessing satisfaction and self-reported well-being (n = 89); and (iv) structured expert interviews to refine and prioritize the framework elements (n = 15). The quantitative analysis included descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation analysis, and reliability testing using Cronbach’s alpha, the Mann–Whitney U test, and the Kruskal–Wallis test to explore the associations between perceived park attributes, user satisfaction, and self-reported well-being. The framework was iteratively refined through triangulation via the literature, field evidence, user feedback, and expert judgement, while expert responses were synthesized using weighted mean scores, simple ranking system, and the Relative Importance Index (RII). The findings indicate that shading and thermal comfort, safety, accessibility, maintenance, and cultural alignment are the most important design priorities in the Saudi Arabian context. The empirical assessment also highlights recurrent shortcomings in the selected parks, particularly inadequate heat mitigation measures, inconsistent maintenance, limited recreational infrastructure, and the weak integration of smart support features. Based on this triangulated evidence, the study proposes a framework comprising nine categories, 43 sub-categories, with 137 indicators organized across environmental, socio-cultural, economic, and smart-enabler considerations. The framework provides a practical and context-sensitive tool for evaluating existing parks, prioritizing interventions, and guiding future community park development in support the Quality-of-Life Programme of Saudi Vision 2030.
Reframing BIM and Digital Twins for Intelligent Built Environments Abdullahi Abdulrahman Muhudin, Md Shafiullah, Baqer Al-Ramadan, Mohammad Sharif Zami, Mohammad Tahir Zamani, et al. Smart Cities, 2026 The integration of Building Information Modeling [BIM] and Digital Twins [DT] has emerged as a central driver of digital transformation in the architecture, engineering, and construction sector. Yet, its systemic impact remains constrained by conceptual fragmentation and uneven institutional adoption. This study synthesizes contemporary BIM–DT scalability and each to identify dominant technological and application dimensions, examine the governance conditions shaping scalability, and develop an analytical framework that advances understanding beyond technology-centered syntheses. A two-stage analytical design was employed, combining bibliometric keyword co-occurrence analysis of 1295 Scopus-indexed records with systematic qualitative synthesis of 56 peer-reviewed journal articles published between 2020 and 2025, following PRISMA guidelines. Six interrelated analytical dimensions characterize the current BIM–DT research landscape: BIM–DT integration advancements and applications; interoperability and visualization; safety enhancement; energy efficiency; data-driven decision making; and stakeholder collaboration. Across these dimensions, a persistent misalignment emerges between technological capability and organizational readiness, with deficiencies in standards, governance, and sociotechnical coordination constituting the principal barriers to large-scale deployment. The findings reframe BIM–DT convergence not as a discrete technological upgrade but as the emergence of a coordinated socio-technical information ecosystem spanning the full building lifecycle. By foregrounding governance conditions, data stewardship, and institutional coordination, this study extends understanding of how digital twins expand BIM from design coordination to operational governance and establishes a foundation for more systematic implementation of intelligent, resilient, and sustainable built-environment systems.
A framework to understand the design guidelines of smart and sustainable urban open space Mohammad Sharif Zami, Sara Qwaider, Baqer M. Al-Ramadan, Mohammad A. Hassanain Estoa, 2026 Smart and Sustainable Urban Open Space (Smart-SUOS) are essential for improving the quality of life (QoL). They serve as hubs for leisure, social interaction, civic activities, and environmental benefits. This study provides a comprehensive overview of the types, design elements, and guidelines necessary to design Smart-SUOS. The study aims to formulate a framework to understand the design guidelines of Smart-SUOS. To achieve the aim, a critical review of the existing literature was carried out. The analysis of the secondary data gathered 13 essential landscape design elements (LDEs), 9 smart services and technology integration, and 10 design conditions (DCs) that were utilized to formulate a design framework of Smart-SUOS. The validated design framework included an additional LDE, 2 smart services and technology integration, and 2 DCs. The framework also includes a series of challenges and measures to overcome the challenges for the successful design of Smart-SUOS.
A systematic review on GIS-based road traffic accidents analysis and road safety audit Destaw Kifile Endashaw, Kidanemariam Alula Habtegiorgis, Baqer Muhammad Al-Ramadan, Hassan Musaed Al-Ahmadi, Basha Fayissa Deressa Computational Urban Science, 2025 Road traffic accidents (RTAs) cause approximately 1.35 million deaths and 50 million injuries annually, disproportionately affecting people aged 5–29 years. The objective of this review was to synthesize how Geographic Information Systems (GIS) support RTA analysis and road safety audits. Relevant articles were searched in different electronic databases such as Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, and Google Scholar using predefined terms; after screening and eligibility checks, 75 peer‑reviewed studies were included. Dominant techniques included Kernel Density Estimation (KDE), Getis–Ord Gi* clustering, crash rate analysis, and Empirical Bayes (EB) analyses, as well as machine-learning clustering. Across contexts, GIS consistently identified spatial blackspots, supported spatiotemporal trend analysis, and informed targeted countermeasures; key limitations were heterogeneous data quality, inconsistent methodological choices, and the integration of real‑time and behavioral data. GIS is effective for blackspot detection and decision support in road safety. Future work should prioritize standardizing methods, incorporating real‑time IoT streams and deep learning, and integrating behavioral and exposure data to improve prediction and intervention design.
A Systematic Review of GIS-Driven Road Traffic Accident Evaluation Basha Fayissa Deressa, Kidanemariam Alula Habtegiogis, Destaw Kifile Endashaw, Baqer Muhammad Al-Ramadan, Hassan Musaed Al-Ahmadi Vehicles, 2025 The review has explored the application of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in evaluating road traffic crashes, stressing its role in identifying crash spatial patterns and hotspots. GIS offers a framework for integrating spatial and non-spatial data, allowing scholars and planners to visualize crash-prone areas and understand their distribution. A total of 77 research articles from the publication period of 2010–2025 were included for final reviews. A Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) approach is followed to provide well-structured, transparent, and standardized information on articles. The intention is to assess how different GIS techniques contribute to road safety analysis and to the development of effective intervention strategies. The review focused particularly on four key GIS-based spatial analysis methods: Kernel Density Estimation (KDE), Network KDE, Moran’s I (Global and Local), and Getis-Ord Gi*. Among these, KDE and Moran’s I were the most frequently adopted techniques, covering about 31.17% and 23.38% of reviewed articles, respectively. These techniques are essential for identifying statistically significant clusters and crash concentration. Despite their promising results, the studies also reveal limitations, including inconsistent data quality, high computational demands, and limited use of variables such as road geometry characteristics. Although GIS is an effective tool for planning and analyzing road safety, these deficiencies might be addressed by future studies that advance the use of real-time spatial analytics and incorporate more diversified information. Overall, the review has reinforced the critical role of GIS in improving traffic safety through real-time data-driven interventions.
Microclimate Performance Analysis of Urban Vegetation: Evidence from Hot Humid Middle Eastern Cities Sarah Al-Hajri, Baqer Al-Ramadan, Md Shafiullah, Syed Masiur Rahman Plants, 2025 Urban heat islands (UHIs) pose a growing challenge in rapidly urbanizing areas, necessitating effective mitigation strategies to enhance environmental sustainability and human well-being. This study examined the role of vegetation in regulating urban microclimates, focusing on its ability to mitigate the effects of UHIs, promote thermal comfort, and enhance urban esthetics. The study drew on existing research that employed spatial analysis and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to explore the relationship between vegetation metrics and reductions in surface temperature. Municipal initiatives in Khobar, Saudi Arabia, including tree-planting programs and street humanization projects, aimed to improve urban esthetics and pedestrian experiences. Although these efforts enhanced urban livability, they lacked a comprehensive ecological perspective, emphasizing the need for strategies that integrate thermal comfort, environmental resilience, and broader sustainability goals. The analysis demonstrated the societal and environmental benefits of tree-planting activities and linked urban vegetation plans to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The results highlighted the importance of incorporating green infrastructure in urban development to mitigate the effects of UHIs, improve air quality, and enhance overall urban livability. This paper proposed a framework for sustainable urban design, offering practical insights for policymakers and urban planners working to create resilient, environmentally conscious communities in extreme climates.
Enhancing Accessibility in Public Spaces: A Computational Study of Hatirjheel Lakefront Using Space Syntax Sharif Tousif Hossain, Baqer Al-Ramadan, Muhammad Bilal, Hamad Ahmed Altuwaijri ISPRS International Journal of Geo Information, 2025 Public spaces are vital for urban living, contributing to the environmental, social, and economic aspects of city life. Hatirjheel Lakefront, a newly developed recreational area in Dhaka, offers significant potential for enhancing accessibility and connectivity in a rapidly urbanizing metropolis. This study aims to evaluate global and local integration of access routes and propose strategies to improve pedestrian and vehicular connectivity using Space Syntax methodology and DepthmapX V10 software. The key findings indicate that while Hatirjheel demonstrates strong global integration, regional integration remains moderate, with certain access roads being underutilized due to poor connectivity. Recommendations include enhancing integration through connecting dead-end roads, improving pedestrian pathways, and constructing foot-over bridges to mitigate vehicular traffic barriers. This study contributes to urban planning by providing actionable insights to optimize accessibility in public spaces, supporting recreational and economic activities. The findings are critical for creating a more integrated urban fabric in Dhaka, ensuring sustainable urban growth. This research provides actionable strategies for urban planners to optimize the use of public spaces, reinforcing the role of Hatirjheel as a vital component of Dhaka’s urban network.
GIS Applications in Water Recourse Engineering Term Paper AA Abo-Monasar, B Al-Ramadan 2009.0
Measuring groundwater contamination in agricultural and urban areas using GIS M Al-Ahmari, B Al-Ramadan Faculty of the King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, Dhahran … , 2006 2006.0 Citations: 1
Term Paper Early Weather Warning System for Saudi Arabia Using GIS FM Al Zawad, B Al-Ramadan 2006.0
GIS applications in transportation analysis and planning MA Olba, B Al-Ramadan Final term paper, KFUMP, Dhahran , 2006 2006.0 Citations: 7
GIS Application in Water Balance Modelling HA Eltoum, B Al-Ramadan 2005.0
Usefulness of Geodemographics & GIS for Banking Sector in Pakistan AI Butt, B Al-Ramadan 2005.0
Image Analysis, Geographic Information Systems and Some of Their Applications in Geology Final Paper BA Al-Mutairi, B Al-Ramadan 2005.0
GIS IN TRANSPORTATION SA Ahmed, B Al-Ramadan 2004.0
IBRAHIM TAIWO ABDULKADIR (ID#: 230341) For CRP 514: Introduction to GIS Term 041–11 th Offer B Al-Ramadan 2004.0
GIS Applications in Optimum Site Selection for Tourist Sites: Texas State as a Case Study B Al-Ramadan, Y Aina Third International GIS Conference & Exhibition, Bahrain , 2004 2004.0 Citations: 5
Role of GIS in tracking and controlling spread of diseases SI Quadri, B Al-Ramadan CRP , 2004 2004.0 Citations: 1
Introduction to Geographic Information Systems technology and its applications B Al-Ramadan Review. College of Environmental Design, KFUPM, Dhahran, 113-120 , 2002 2002.0 Citations: 5
A Framework for a National effort towards geographic information and Geographic Information Systems in Saudi Arabia BM Al-Ramadan University of Pennsylvania , 1993 1993.0 Citations: 6
Geographical Information Systems Applications in Ecology ALD Abdullah, B Al-Ramadan
Hadi Y. Al-Kanani ID# 901369 For CRP 514: Introduction to GIS B Al-Ramadan
King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals SO Ibrahim, B Al-Ramadan
MOST CITED SCHOLAR PUBLICATIONS
GIS applications in transportation analysis and planning MA Olba, B Al-Ramadan Final term paper, KFUMP, Dhahran , 2006 2006.0 Citations: 7
A Framework for a National effort towards geographic information and Geographic Information Systems in Saudi Arabia BM Al-Ramadan University of Pennsylvania , 1993 1993.0 Citations: 6
GIS Applications in Optimum Site Selection for Tourist Sites: Texas State as a Case Study B Al-Ramadan, Y Aina Third International GIS Conference & Exhibition, Bahrain , 2004 2004.0 Citations: 5
Introduction to Geographic Information Systems technology and its applications B Al-Ramadan Review. College of Environmental Design, KFUPM, Dhahran, 113-120 , 2002 2002.0 Citations: 5
Measuring groundwater contamination in agricultural and urban areas using GIS M Al-Ahmari, B Al-Ramadan Faculty of the King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, Dhahran … , 2006 2006.0 Citations: 1
Role of GIS in tracking and controlling spread of diseases SI Quadri, B Al-Ramadan CRP , 2004 2004.0 Citations: 1
GIS Applications in Water Recourse Engineering Term Paper AA Abo-Monasar, B Al-Ramadan 2009.0
Term Paper Early Weather Warning System for Saudi Arabia Using GIS FM Al Zawad, B Al-Ramadan 2006.0
GIS Application in Water Balance Modelling HA Eltoum, B Al-Ramadan 2005.0
Usefulness of Geodemographics & GIS for Banking Sector in Pakistan AI Butt, B Al-Ramadan 2005.0
Image Analysis, Geographic Information Systems and Some of Their Applications in Geology Final Paper BA Al-Mutairi, B Al-Ramadan 2005.0
GIS IN TRANSPORTATION SA Ahmed, B Al-Ramadan 2004.0
IBRAHIM TAIWO ABDULKADIR (ID#: 230341) For CRP 514: Introduction to GIS Term 041–11 th Offer B Al-Ramadan 2004.0
Geographical Information Systems Applications in Ecology ALD Abdullah, B Al-Ramadan
Hadi Y. Al-Kanani ID# 901369 For CRP 514: Introduction to GIS B Al-Ramadan
King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals SO Ibrahim, B Al-Ramadan
