Umbrellas of the Prophet's Mosque: An engineering marvel for the comfort of the pilgrims
The umbrellas in the courtyards of the Prophet's Mosque in Medina are a unique architectural icon and a testament to the meticulous care that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia devotes to the Two Holy Mosques. They are not merely structures providing shade, but rather an integrated engineering project that combines the aesthetics of Islamic art with the latest technological advancements, aiming to create a comfortable and safe environment for the millions of worshippers and visitors who flock to the mosque throughout the year, especially during peak seasons such as Ramadan and Hajj.
Historical background: In response to an urgent need
The umbrella project was conceived as part of the second Saudi expansion of the Prophet's Mosque, the largest in its history, during the reign of King Fahd bin Abdulaziz Al Saud (may God have mercy on him). This massive expansion created vast outdoor courtyards to accommodate the increasing number of worshippers. Given the high temperatures in Medina for most of the year, there was a pressing need for an innovative and effective solution to shade these courtyards and protect worshippers from direct sunlight. Thus, the idea of retractable umbrellas was born, which have become an integral part of the mosque's visual identity.
Precise design and advanced technology
The project comprises 250 retractable canopies covering a vast area of outdoor spaces. Each canopy is meticulously designed, with a side length of 25.5 meters and a height of approximately 15 meters when open, weighing nearly 40 tons. Operated by a central automated control system, these canopies open at sunrise to provide shade and close gradually before sunset in a beautifully synchronized motion. Each canopy consists of two interlocking sections that seamlessly merge when closed.
The umbrella fabrics are made of highly durable fiberglass fabric coated with Teflon (PTFE), giving them the ability to withstand harsh weather conditions and resist fire. These fabrics are adorned with geometric patterns inspired by Islamic design, with the addition of gold-plated brass elements for a touch of luxury and elegance. The internal structure of each umbrella includes a central operating cylinder, eight supports, and multiple arms that ensure stability and smooth operation.
Project importance and global impact
The umbrellas not only provide shade but are also equipped with integrated cooling systems. Each umbrella features 436 misting fans integrated into its sides, which cool the surrounding environment and reduce the temperature, creating a more comfortable atmosphere for worshippers. They are also equipped with over 1,000 lighting units, transforming the courtyards into an oasis of light and tranquility at night. Each umbrella can accommodate more than 900 worshippers, giving the project a total capacity exceeding 228,000 worshippers at peak times.
This monumental project reflects the advanced level of attention to engineering and technical detail in the development of the Prophet's Mosque facilities. It has become a global landmark highlighting the Kingdom's efforts in serving pilgrims and presents a unique model for integrating modern architecture with rich Islamic heritage to enhance the experience of visitors and worshippers and provide the utmost comfort and tranquility within the precincts of the Prophet's Mosque.
