Saudi Riwaq: Construction Icon, Saudi Architectural Milestone For Grand Mosque

The Saudi Riwaq stands as a significant achievement in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's architectural history, particularly within the Grand Mosque. This modern expansion, initiated by King Abdulaziz Al Saud, addresses the growing number of pilgrims. The Saudi Riwaq is situated behind the Abbasid Riwaq, constructed by Mohammad Al-Mahdi between 161-169 AH / 778-785 AD.

The Abbasid Riwaq has endured for nearly 1,200 years with minimal restoration, maintaining its original elements and materials. In Islamic architecture, a Riwaq refers to a corridor between columns featuring vertical arches parallel to the Qiblah wall. The term linguistically means "what surrounds something."

In 1344 AH, King Abdulaziz ordered repairs and restoration for the Grand Mosque and began planning the expansion that would include the Saudi Riwaq. The Grand Mosque has consistently received significant attention from the Saudi state, evident in the large-scale projects and expansions since the first Saudi State.

Under King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, substantial architectural transformations occurred at the Grand Mosque. These changes included massive expansions and advanced support services, making it easier for pilgrims to perform their rituals. Construction of the Saudi Riwaq began during King Saud's reign in 1375 AH / 1955 AD.

The development continued through the reigns of King Saud, King Faisal, and King Khalid between 1375/1396 AH - 1955/1976 AD. The Saudi Riwaq now consists of four floors: the courtyard floor, ground floor, first floor, and mezzanine. It extends from the western side, featuring about 1,500 columns covered with white marble and domes on the roof.

During King Fahd's reign, the Grand Mosque's area expanded to approximately 365,000 square meters with a capacity for around 1 million worshippers. This expansion included a new door named the King Fahd Gate. Further extensions occurred during King Abdullah's reign and were completed under King Salman.

Today, the Grand Mosque spans approximately 1 million square meters and can accommodate around 2 million worshippers. The Saudi Riwaq includes many columns and a gate named after King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz. Over the years, various kings have contributed to expanding the Saudi Riwaq.

The transformation increased the Grand Mosque's area from about 12,000 square meters to over 1 million square meters. This expansion reflects the special care given by Saudi leaders to the architecture of the Two Holy Mosques since the first Saudi State.

The Saudi Riwaq has become an iconic feature of Makkah's Grand Mosque. The Kingdom's government ensured that the mosque was built using top-quality designs and materials. The structure features special chandeliers, marble-covered columns in bright colours, and a brightly coloured ceiling also covered in marble.

The Abbasid Riwaq is connected to this modern structure. The Saudi Riwaq now boasts several gates, including the King Abdulaziz Gate, Umrah Gate, and Al-Fateh Gate.

With inputs from SPA