Saudi Arabia Revives Historic Mosques: 60 Restored Under Crown Prince Vision
Saudi Arabia has successfully restored 60 historic mosques across all 13 regions under Prince Mohammed bin Salman's development initiative. Officials announced this milestone during a Riyadh review meeting on Tuesday, marking the project's halfway point toward rehabilitating 130 treasured mosques.
The meeting outlined governance frameworks, phased implementation, and partnerships with government, nonprofit, and private sectors. Launched in 2018, the project blends architectural preservation with modern upgrades, reviving mosques as active worship and community hubs. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's oversight ensures unprecedented financial and institutional support, honoring the mosques' Islamic, cultural, and historical significance.
Community Revival Through Heritage Preservation
Restored mosques now feature enhanced capacities, women's prayer areas, and improved amenities while retaining original designs. Sheikh Abdullatif Al-Sheikh, Islamic Affairs Minister, stressed the project's role in reigniting mosques as spiritual and social landmarks. Hani Al-Muqbil, steering committee head, highlighted a five-pillar strategy: architectural conservation, neighborhood revitalization, private-sector partnerships, public awareness, and systemic collaboration.
Dr. Jasser Al-Harbash, Heritage Commission CEO, confirmed rigorous restoration standards and scientific methods to safeguard Saudi Arabia's Islamic legacy. The commission prioritizes mosques linked to the Prophet's biography, integrating historical integrity with modern functionality. Development aligns with Vision 2030, positioning the Kingdom as a global heritage guardian.
Cultural Renaissance and Neighborhood Renewal
Revitalized mosques have sparked economic and cultural revival in surrounding areas, fostering community cohesion. Saudi engineers and heritage experts lead restoration, ensuring adherence to Islamic architectural identity. With 70 mosques remaining, the project advances toward its 2030 completion, cementing Saudi Arabia's status as a cradle of Islamic civilization.
'This initiative bridges our rich past with a dynamic future,' said Al-Muqbil. 'Every restored mosque narrates Saudi Arabia's enduring legacy to the world.'
Short link :
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Arab News
a day ago
- Arab News
The women empowered through service during Hajj
RIYADH: The role played by women during Hajj has evolved considerably in recent years, highlighting their contributions to one of the world's largest gatherings of humanity. One inspiring woman involved in the pilgrimage is Alyaa Malibari, a professor at Umm Al-Qura University in Makkah. She has dedicated her career to enhancing pilgrims' experiences while also empowering other women and works with several operators to run courses for members of the public interested in volunteering during Hajj. She devised the Qaidat program, a leadership initiative for women that introduces them to various roles and responsibilities. Another, Hunna, is a female-led project that aligns with Vision 2030 and focuses on applying innovative practices during Hajj. Meanwhile, the Aguadyat program empowers women in food safety, enhancing the quality of meals provided to pilgrims. Women have been integral to Hajj ever since its inception, offering hospitality, preparing meals and sharing religious knowledge. Today, their roles have expanded to reflect their educational and professional advancements. Malibari has been a pivotal figure. With a background in leadership training and communication, she began her journey at a young age, inspired by her family's commitment to serving pilgrims. 'My earliest memories of Hajj are filled with admiration for my father and the work he did. I always knew I wanted to contribute in some way,' she said, adding that empowering women was a lifelong commitment: 'I want to ensure that women have the tools and knowledge to thrive during Hajj.' Malibari's earliest memories of Hajj are of when she was five years old and accompanied her father. Her formal involvement began in 2005 when she volunteered with the Women's Assembly at Umm Al-Qura to assist female pilgrims. She later studied abroad, which allowed her to bring international attention to Saudi efforts in serving pilgrims. 'It was important for me to share our story with the world and highlight the dedication of those who serve,' she said. In 2019, Malibari led a translation project for the Ministry of Media, producing multilingual content to enhance communication. Beyond her contributions during Hajj, Malibari is a dedicated doctor and academic. She is keen to emphasize the importance of education and aims to inspire the next generation of leaders. 'Education is the key to unlocking potential. I want my students to understand that they can make a difference,' she said.
Arab News
2 days ago
- Arab News
Saudi, Islamic leaders exchange Eid Al-Adha greetings
RIYADH: The leadership of Saudi Arabia on Thursday received telegrams from the heads of several Islamic countries on the occasion of Eid Al-Adha. King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman sent their own goodwill messages, wishing Islamic leaders progress and prosperity for the festival. The crown prince on Thursday also received a telephone call from Bahrain's King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa, the Saudi Press Agency reported. Muslims worldwide will begin the four-day celebration of Eid Al-Adha on Friday. The holiday occurs in the twelfth and final month of the Islamic calendar and coincides with the Hajj pilgrimage in Makkah, where 1.4 million pilgrims this week began their rituals.
Arab News
2 days ago
- Arab News
Saudi crown prince, Iranian President hold Eid Al-Adha call
RIYADH: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman received a phone call from Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on the occasion of Eid Al-Adha on Thursday, the Saudi Press Agency reported. During the call, President Pezeshkian thanked the Kingdom for its efforts and distinguished services provided to pilgrims. He also extended Eid greetings to the Crown Prince, who in turn offered his congratulations on the blessed occasion.
