Sacred Splendour: The Most Beautiful Mosques In Saudi Arabia

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by Iffat Nawaz

Sacred Splendour: The Most Beautiful Mosques In Saudi Arabia

19 Nov 2024

Photo: Getty Images

Step into the cradle of Islam, Saudi Arabia. Makkah and Medina draw millions of pilgrims annually. However, the Kingdom also features a wealth of beautiful mosques and historic sites that provide a tranquil environment for prayer and contemplation. These hidden gems offer visitors a unique opportunity to experience the spiritual richness of the region away from the bustling crowds.

Although parts of these holy cities are restricted to Muslims, many architecturally stunning mosques and significant historical landmarks throughout the country welcome all visitors. As the birthplace of Islam, Saudi Arabia invites travellers to explore its rich heritage and lively culture, making every journey a chance to connect with its profound religious roots.

Join The Sandy Times to unveil its most significant mosques in Makkah and Medina and their alternative options to visit.

The timeless beauty of Masjid Al Haram: The heart of Makkah

Located in the sacred city of Makkah, Masjid Al Haram, also known as the Great Mosque of Makkah, stands as one of the two holiest mosques in Saudi Arabia. With a rich history dating back to 638 AD, this magnificent structure has undergone numerous transformations.

As the largest mosque in the world, Masjid Al Haram can accommodate up to one million worshippers at once, attracting millions of pilgrims annually to perform Hajj and Umrah. The mosque's central sacred structure, the Holy Kaaba, is the focal point of worship, where Muslims circumambulate the sacred site. The Zamzam well, located within the mosque's premises, is another revered feature, believed to hold sacred water that never dries.

A visit to Masjid Al Haram offers a profound opportunity to delve into the rich religious and cultural customs of Islam. The prayer hall, known as the Haram area, is an expansive space with multiple levels and sections, adorned with intricate Arabic calligraphy and patterns.

The mosque's towering minarets, from which the call to prayer is proclaimed, add to its breathtaking beauty. The Abraj Al Bait clock tower, a modern addition to the complex, stands as a striking landmark, its massive clock face visible from within the mosque. Its grandeur, beauty, and spiritual significance make it an awe-inspiring place of worship.

Photo: Afif Ramdhasuma

The sublime sanctuary of Medina: Masjid al Nabawi

The Second Holiest Mosque in Islam, located in the heart of Medina, Saudi Arabia, Masjid al Nabawi stands as a testament to the rich history and spiritual significance of Islam. This sacred place, often referred to as "Heaven on Earth”, is the final resting place of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the first two caliphs, Abu Bakr (RA) and Umar (RA).

Masjid al Nabawi's extensive structure, covering 82,000 square metres, has also undergone a lot of construction since its inception in 622 AD. The current complex can house over 3.2 million worshippers, making it the second-largest mosque globally. The mosque's silver dome, adjacent to the green dome, is a relatively recent addition, built during King Fahad bin Abdul Aziz's reign using 24-karat gold-plated stainless steel.

Beyond its spectacular building design, Masjid al Nabawi serves as a hub for spiritual, social, cultural, and administrative activities. The mosque features six mihrabs, including the revered Mihrab Nabawi, used by the Prophet himself. The complex also encompasses Jannat ul Baqi, a sacred cemetery initially located on Medina's outskirts.

Photo: A Miah

Majestic Al Rajhi Grand Mosque: A Riyadh landmark

Built by the generous donation of the Al Rajhi family, this magnificent mosque serves not only as a sacred place of worship but also as a vivacious community hub. The mosque's grandeur is awe-inspiring, with an impressive capacity to adjust over 20,000 worshippers. Its elegant design and Ottoman-style Turkish construction make it a showpiece of Islamic art.

As you approach there, you will notice its striking exterior, adorned with classic rock-based tiles and illuminated by smart lighting that casts a ceremonial glow at night. Step inside, and you will be greeted by a capacious interior, complete with separate ablution and restroom facilities for both men and women.

The Al Rajhi Grand Mosque is more than just a place of worship, it is an architectural wonder that boasts two libraries, forensic science courses, and an automated utilities system. During Friday prayers, the Juma'ah Khutbah is translated into seven languages and displayed on LCD screens for the hearing impaired. Open since December 2004, this iconic landmark has become a model for integrated mosque facilities across the Middle East.

Photo: Hamza A. Durrani

The floating mosque: Al Rahma Mosque, Jeddah

Jeddah's Al Rahma Mosque, also known as Fatima Al Zahra Mosque, perched on stilts over the Red Sea, is a masterpiece of modern Islamic architecture. Witness its serene beauty at sunrise or sunset.

Built in 1985, this mosque has become one of Jeddah’s most cherished landmarks. The mosque nickname is the ‘floating mosque’, as it seems to elegantly float above the water during high tide. Its building beautifully merges ancient and modern Islamic styles, featuring a striking turquoise dome complemented by a white minaret and 52 additional outer domes.

The exterior is adorned with 23 elegant umbrellas inscribed with verses from the Holy Quran, enhancing its spiritual ambience.

Inside, the Al Rahma Floating Mosque boasts 56 intricately designed windows that reflect traditional Islamic artistry. The central dome, supported by eight majestic pillars, is a visual delight, with stained glass inlays that create a captivating play of light, highlighted by an impressive chandelier.

Equipped with modern lighting and sound systems, the mosque provides a welcoming prayer area and facilities for wudhu (ablution). Its open courtyard offers sensational views of the coast, allowing visitors to enjoy the refreshing sea breeze.

Photo: Tahir mq

Hidden gem of Riyadh: KAFD Grand Mosque

Tucked away in the King Abdullah Financial District, the KAFD Grand Mosque is an architectural gem waiting to be discovered. This mosque, designed by Omrania, draws inspiration from the desert rose, a naturally occurring crystalline structure found in Saudi Arabia's deserts. As you approach the mosque, its geometric design appears to burst forth from the ground, while its roof resembles the delicate petals of a budding rose.

Step inside, and you will be struck by the mosque's unique combination of modern architecture and symbolic cultural elements. The structure spans 6,000 square metres, accommodating up to 1,500 worshippers at once. The interior design boasts calligraphic patterns, triangulated glass muqarnas, and geometric elements, offering a fresh perspective on Islamic art.

Two imposing minarets, standing 60 metres tall, add to the mosque's grandeur. The KAFD Grand Mosque is a shining example of Islamic architecture.

Photo: Ali Lajami

by Iffat Nawaz