Kamal Raftani

Urban Heritage Conservation Specialist - Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU)

Al Ula, Al Madinah, Saudi Arabia

About

KAMAL RAFTANI PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY A highly skilled Architectural and Heritage Conservation Expert with over two decades of comprehensive experience in architectural design, project management, and heritage conservation. Possesses a robust educational foundation with degrees from esteemed institutions across Morocco, France, and Canada. Demonstrates a profound commitment to preserving cultural heritage while integrating modern project management methodologies. Expert in navigating complex regulatory environments, with significant contributions to UNESCO projects and deep familiarity with KSA Vision 2030 and heritage regulatory frameworks. A trilingual professional (English, Arabic, French), offering a versatile communication bridge in international and multicultural settings, and poised to contribute to and lead projects that bridge the gap between historical preservation and contemporary architectural needs. EDUCATION • Graduate Certificate in Project Management – Algonquin College, Ottawa, Canada • Graduate Diploma in Architectural Conservation – Carleton University, Ottawa, Canada • Diplôme Supérieur en Architecture du Patrimoine – Ecole de Chaillot de Paris & ENA de Rabat • Architect Diploma – ENA de Rabat, Morocco CORE COMPETENCIES • Architectural Design & Heritage Conservation: Demonstrated expertise in the conservation of heritage sites, with a focus on sustainable and culturally sensitive approaches • Project Coordination & Management: Extensive experience in leading projects from concept through completion, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives and compliance with local and international standards and best practices • Cultural Sensitivity & Regulatory Knowledge: Deep understanding of global heritage conservation instruments, including UNESCO guidelines and KSA Vision 2030 policies • Technical Proficiencies: Advanced skills in Microsoft Project, Office Suite, and traditional construction techniques specific to KSA and Morocco • Communication & Multilingual Proficiency: Excellent communication skills in English, Arabic, and French. PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE • Royal Commission for Al-Ula, Al-Ula, KSA Cultural Heritage Compliance Conservation Lead, August 2023 – Present • R&H Al-Khibra Consulting, Casablanca, Morocco Heritage Conservation Consultant, July 2022 – May 2023 • On Side Restoration, Gatineau, Quebec Project Administrator/Project Manager, August 2021 – June 2022 • Architect, Fez, Morocco Self-employed, May 2013 – March 2019 • UNESCO, Rabat Office, Morocco Program Officer, Jan 2009 – Dec 2012

Experience

  • Urban Heritage Conservation Specialist at The Royal Commission for AlUla
    Aug 2023 - Present · 3 yrs 4 mos

    Restauration et réhabilitation du patrimoine bâti

  • Project Manager & Heritage Conservation Specialist at Al-Khibra Consulting s.a.r.l.
    May 2015 - Mar 2019 · 3 yrs 11 mos

  • Architect, Restorer at ARK - Kamal Raftani Architect
    May 2013 - Mar 2019 · 5 yrs 11 mos

    Construction Management, Conception et réalisation de projets d'architecture and +3 skills

  • Program Officer at UNESCO
    Jan 2009 - Dec 2012 · 4 yrs