A Conceptual Framework for Sustainable Vertical Growth in the Housing Sector: A Case Study of the Dammam Metropolitan Area

The housing sector in major cities is facing escalating challenges due to rapid population growth and land scarcity. Consequently, vertical growth has been adopted as a strategic solution to optimize land use while balancing economic, social, and environmental needs. This study examines the phenomenon of vertical growth of the Dammam Metropolitan Area (DMA) in Saudi Arabia, from an urban sustainability perspective, focusing on evaluating the current state of multi-story buildings, their determinants, and their impact on quality of life and infrastructure efficiency. This study utilizes a systematic review methodology and a conceptual approach to develop an integrated framework for sustainable vertical growth. Furthermore, an empirical validation was conducted by projecting this framework onto vertical housing projects in Dammam, focusing on challenges related to design, construction quality, shared service management, and the suitability of apartments for family needs. The results indicate that the shift toward vertical growth achieves land-use efficiency, limits random horizontal expansion, and provides economic opportunities. However, it faces social and cultural constraints, most notably the resistance of some families to changing traditional ownership patterns, limited privacy and green spaces, and challenges in building maintenance and operations. The study highlights the importance of integrating urban planning, governance, architectural design, and infrastructure to ensure the sustainability of vertical growth and provide suitable housing alternatives. The study recommends further field research to assess social acceptance, improve quality-of-life indicators, and develop policies encouraging sustainable vertical expansion in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030 and the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ensuring cities are more resilient, efficient, sustainable, and liveable.