More than four decades after leaving Jeddah, a Scottish father and son returned to the Saudi Arabian city to reconnect with their family’s history and legacy. Graham Duncan, who grew up in Jeddah before departing in 1982 at age 18, traveled back to the city last week with his 20-year-old son, Joey, to explore the city where Graham’s father, Dr. George Duncan, made a lasting impact.

Dr. George Duncan was an architect and urban planner who worked closely with Jeddah’s former mayor, Mohammed Saeed Farsi, during the 1960s through the 1980s. The pair played a significant role in shaping the city’s urban development while championing the preservation of its historic core. George Duncan’s efforts focused on balancing the rapid expansion and modernization of Jeddah with the protection of its cultural and architectural heritage.

After retiring in 1985, George Duncan completed a doctoral thesis at Durham University detailing his work in Saudi Arabia before passing away in 1997. His contributions are considered instrumental in safeguarding the distinctive character of Jeddah’s old town amid ongoing development.

Joey Duncan, serving in the British Army’s Parachute Regiment, took advantage of a break between deployments to visit the city and witness firsthand the legacy left by his grandfather. “He wanted to see his grandfather’s legacy,” Graham Duncan said of his son’s motivation. Together, they toured the historic neighborhoods, reflecting on the influence George Duncan had in preserving the area’s traditional architecture and markets.

The preservation of Jeddah’s historic district, Al-Balad—known for its narrow lanes, traditional houses, and vibrant souks—has become central to the city’s identity. Recognized for its cultural significance, Al-Balad was added to UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 2014. Graham Duncan credited his father and Mayor Farsi with helping maintain the beauty and heritage that define the area today.

As Jeddah continues to evolve, the challenges of integrating modern infrastructure with historic preservation remain relevant. The efforts of George Duncan and his contemporaries serve as an early example of how urban planning can honor cultural heritage while fostering growth.