Article	Modern trade and entertainment centers in the Middle East (souk) as a symbiosis of tradition and innovation
Authors	Zorin K.L., Moscow Architectural Institute (State Academy), Moscow, Russia
Abstract	The article is devoted to the study of the transformation of a traditional eastern market – souk – into a modern trade and entertainment center in the Middle East and North Africa. The author analyzes the historical origins of the souk as a site of temporary trade and cultural events, as well as its role in shaping the region's cultural identity. The paper examines contemporary practices in constructing new souks that combine traditional stylistic motifs with trade and entertainment center planning solutions, along with their functional components, including cinemas, fitness centers, and social spaces. Special attention is given to a comparative analysis of the popularity of trade and entertainment centers located in central city districts versus suburban areas, highlighting the significance of location for attracting visitors. Examples from projects in Manama, Doha, Abu Dhabi, Beirut and other cities illustrate how traditional architectural elements are integrated into modern commercial complexes. The article emphasizes the trend of blending tradition and innovation and discusses the role of modern trade and entertainment center as key centers in leisure and cultural spaces that preserve regional cultural identity.
Keywords:	shopping mall, souk, Arab world, commercial architecture
	Article (RUS)
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	UDC 725.1:339.175(5-15) DOI: 10.24412/1998-4839-2026-1-57-68 EDN: HGGIJZ
For citation	Zorin K.L. Modern trade and entertainment centers in the Middle East (souk) as a symbiosis of tradition and innovation. Architecture and Modern Information Technologies, 2026, no. 1(74), pp. 57-68. Available at: https://marhi.ru/AMIT/2026/1kvart26/PDF/04_zorin.pdf DOI: 10.24412/1998-4839-2026-1-57-68 EDN: HGGIJZ
Article	Received by the editors on 19.12.2025; approved after review on 05.03.2026; accepted for publication on 10.03.2026; publication date: 15.03.2026