Let me explain
Contiguous linear buildings along two roads forming an arc are interrupted by courtyards, open spaces and a maidan facing the district's Friday mosque, mixing religious, commercial, administrative and cultural uses. Open arcades link all the buildings and panels shade the long passageways; the landscaping was planned as a self-sustaining ecological system using desert plants. The jury called it an ideal model for cities in Islamic and Arab societies for preserving the traditional link between the mosque and the city's other public services (Aga Khan Award for Architecture). Today the plaza is overlooked by the Royal Commission for Riyadh City buildings, the mosque (5,830 m2, 5,000 worshippers) and arcades of restaurants and cafes, with parking beneath it (Royal Commission for Riyadh City).