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Möbius ribbon over the desert. Saudi Arabia's new symbol in Al Qatif

Anastazja Gibas
11 of February '26
Technical data
NAME: ETERNAL HORIZON, AL QATIF
function: RESCUE
location:

AL QATIF, Saudi Arabia

studio: Studio Symbiosis

"Eternal Horizon" sculpture,
design: Symbiosis Studio

[Material prepared on the basis of the studio's author's description]

A project is being developed in Al Qatif that could revolutionize the perception of public space in the region. Eternal Horizon is a parametric sculpture that references both Saudi Arabia's rich cultural heritage and modern technology. The Studio Symbiosis studio is behind the concept. The object is being erected at the central point of the traffic circle, creating not only a landmark in the urban space, but also a symbolic carrier - an expression of the country's identity, continuity and innovation.

Parametryczna rzeźba w Arabii Saudyjskiej

Parametric sculpture in Saudi Arabia - bird's eye view

© Studio Symbiosis

Infinity Loop - form and solidity

Eternal Horizon takes the shape of a continuous spatial loop, inspired by the Möbius ribbon. This geometric form has no beginning or end, symbolizing the uninterrupted flow of time, evolution and unity. The mass of the sculpture is both sculptural and architectural - it was created based on parametric algorithms that allowed to maintain the fluidity of curves and integrity of the form from any perspective. The object's projection and plan reveal its precisely thought-out structure.

Parametryczna rzeźba w Arabii Saudyjskiej

A parametric sculpture in Saudi Arabia - Eternal Horizon takes the shape of a continuous spatial loop, inspired by a Möbius ribbon

© Studio Symbiosis

The loop is designed to respond to the movement of the sun, wind and observer, creating a dynamic and variable experience. Observing the object from different points reveals new aspects of its space, and the undulating curves allude to desert landscapes and the horizon, creating a subtle dialogue between nature and architecture.

Parametryczna rzeźba w Arabii Saudyjskiej

Parametric sculpture in Saudi Arabia

© Studio Symbiosis

Materials and integration with the landscape

The sculpture is made of reflective metal, which reflects the surrounding landscape. This treatment allows the object to merge with its environment and introduces a visual "endless horizon" effect. The surface changes depending on the time of day and the angle of light, giving the project a dynamic character. Integrated wind turbines have also been incorporated into the structure. Their function is twofold - technical, as they generate renewable energy, and aesthetic, as a visual reflection of movement. Thanks to them, the sculpture does not remain a static object, but becomes a living form, reacting to the forces of nature and introducing a kinetic element that harmonizes with the undulating curves of the mass.

Parametryczna rzeźba w Arabii Saudyjskiej

Parametric sculpture in Saudi Arabia - during the day, the surface of the sculpture reflects natural light, creating reflections that change with the position of the sun

© Studio Symbiosis

Arabic calligraphy - heritage inscribed in form

One of the most distinctive elements of the design is the Arabic calligraphy running along the underside of the loop. Motifs inspired by classical poetry and spiritual texts introduce a symbolic dimension, referring to the idea of eternity, unity and continuity. The quotes are not just decoration - they become an integral part of the space, weaving cultural heritage into a modern, parametric form. This synthesis of tradition and contemporary design demonstrates that sculpture can be a carrier of history and at the same time a sign of progress, where aesthetics and function meet in a coherent spatial narrative.

Parametryczna rzeźba w Arabii Saudyjskiej

Parametric sculpture in Saudi Arabia - one of the most distinctive elements of the design is the Arabic calligraphy running along the underside of the loop

© Studio Symbiosis

Lighting and interaction with the space

The design incorporates energy-efficient LED lighting, powered by energy generated by turbines. During the day, the sculpture's surface reflects natural light, creating reflections that change with the position of the sun. After dark, the object illuminates with a soft glow, becoming a landmark in the urban space. The lighting emphasizes the dynamism and continuity of the form, making each perspective reveal new details and interpretations.

Parametryczna rzeźba w Arabii Saudyjskiej

Parametric sculpture in Saudi Arabia - the object is being created at the central point of a traffic circle

© Studio Symbiosis

Symbolism and meaning

Form, surface, calligraphy and kinetic elements work together to create a coherent message: history and heritage meet modern technology and environmental awareness here. The project reflects the direction of Saudi Arabia, where culture and innovation do not compete, but coexist, creating new qualities in public space. The sculpture becomes an experiential space - the viewer becomes part of it, and the object's changing light, shadow and movement engage the senses and imagination. It is an example of architecture that not only represents, but also educates and inspires. The sculpture integrates landscape, traffic and cultural heritage, becoming a landmark and a symbol of progress. It is an example of multi-layered architecture, in which form, function and meaning combine to form a coherent narrative.

Compiled by Anastazja Gibas

Illustrations provided courtesy of Studio Symbiosis.

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