Continuous care and engineering development at the Prophet's Mosque
is undergoing The Prophet's Mosque a unique architectural and engineering transformation, primarily aimed at providing the utmost comfort and tranquility for visitors and pilgrims, especially during the Hajj and Umrah seasons, which witness millions of visitors from around the world. Among these engineering achievements are the system of retractable domes andgiant umbrellas, which not only offer a practical solution for ventilation and shading but also represent an artistic masterpiece reflecting the beauty of modern Islamic architecture.
Historical context: Massive expansions to serve the pilgrims
Historically, the Two Holy Mosques have received great attention from the leadership of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia since its founding. The idea of retractable domes emerged as part of the Grand Saudi Expansion Project during the reign of King Fahd bin Abdulaziz – may God have mercy on him – the foundation stone of which was laid in 1405 AH. This expansion was the largest in the history of the Prophet's Mosque at the time, and it aimed to accommodate the increasing numbers of Muslims, while introducing modern technologies that ensured air circulation and the entry of natural light without compromising the spirituality and tranquility that characterize the place.
Moving Domes: Amazing Numbers and Engineering Facts
The Prophet's Mosque features 27 movable domes, designed and constructed with meticulous engineering precision. Each dome weighs approximately 80 tons and moves smoothly along iron rails totaling 1,573 meters in length. These domes operate automatically via advanced computer control systems, opening and closing based on climatic changes and temperatures to regulate natural airflow into the mosque's arcades.
Aesthetically, these domes are adorned both inside and out with architectural and decorative details inspired by the rich Islamic heritage. Their designs incorporate luxurious wooden elements, turquoise tiles, and ceramics in shades of sand and turquoise, creating a visual character that harmonizes with the aesthetic identity of the Prophet's Mosque.
250 giant umbrellas: Complete protection in outdoor areas
The attention given to the mosque's interior extended to its surrounding courtyards, which serve as a vital space and a primary place of prayer for hundreds of thousands of visitors. These courtyards are adorned with 250 giant umbrellas, specially designed for the Prophet's Mosque. These umbrellas operate on a synchronized, automated system, opening during the day to protect worshippers from the scorching sun and closing at night to allow for the release of accumulated heat and the circulation of fresh air.
These umbrellas, supported by advanced water mist fan systems, contribute to a significant reduction in temperatures, protecting pilgrims from sunstroke and heat stress, and providing a healthy and safe environment for performing religious rites with utmost devotion.
Importance and impact: locally, regionally, and internationally
At the local level, these projects reflect the General Authority for the Care of the Two Holy Mosques' commitment to providing integrated and sustainable services. At the regional and international levels, this engineering system highlights the Kingdom's leading role in crowd management and providing advanced infrastructure that serves millions of Muslims from around the world.
This ongoing development is also in line with the objectives of the “Guests of God Service Program,” which is one of the most important programs of Saudi Vision 2030, and aims to enrich the religious and cultural experience of pilgrims and Umrah performers, and enable them to perform their rituals with ease and convenience in an environment surrounded by utmost care and attention around the clock.
