In the courtyards of the Prophet’s Mosque, where hearts resonate with spirituality and tranquility, the majestic shading umbrellas stand adorned, narrating a story of human ingenuity that reflects the care for the guests of Ar-Rahman. These umbrellas are not merely architectural structures but a comprehensive system meticulously designed to provide comfort and protection to worshippers and visitors of the Prophet’s Mosque (peace and blessings be upon him).
A Unique Design Complementing the Spirituality of the Place
A total of 250 retractable shading umbrellas, equipped with cutting-edge technology and the highest quality standards, have been installed to shade the courtyards surrounding the Prophet’s Mosque from all directions. Designed at two different heights, with one positioned above the other, they form an interconnected system that harmonizes with the spiritual ambiance of the place. When closed, the umbrellas reach a height of 21.7 meters, presenting a harmonious appearance that showcases architectural innovation and aesthetic beauty.
Umbrellas Designed with Innovative Technologies
Each umbrella spans an area of 25.5 × 25.5 meters and weighs approximately 40 tons. Constructed from materials resistant to natural elements like wind and rain, the umbrella arms feature carbon fibers adorned with exquisite mosaic patterns. Operating on an automatic system, the umbrellas open at sunrise and close at sunset, providing shade for worshippers during the day and protection from rain when needed.
Touches of Care and Comfort
The umbrellas are equipped with 436 misting fans that disperse water through 16 openings per fan to cool the atmosphere during hot periods. The water is purified and sanitized to ensure the quality of air and mist, creating a refreshing and serene environment, particularly during summer days. Additionally, over 1,000 lighting units illuminate the courtyards, adding beauty that instills tranquility and enhances the spiritual splendor of the place.
Service to Worshippers and Visitors
These umbrellas can accommodate over 228,000 worshippers at once, transforming the courtyards of the Prophet’s Mosque into a serene spiritual oasis that supports worshippers in their prayers. A central control room manages the umbrellas, ensuring their operation with precision and efficiency to meet the needs of visitors.
The Retractable Domes
The system includes 27 retractable domes, each weighing 80 tons and supported by a square base with an 18-meter side length. These domes move automatically along iron rails. Their exterior is covered with small ceramic pieces arranged in hexagonal mosaic patterns in light beige, accented with turquoise geometric designs. The interior is clad with solid cedar wood panels, fixed with special adhesive and adorned with intricate geometric patterns and blue turquoise pieces. The domes open automatically at varying times throughout the day to refresh the air inside the mosque, with each opening or closing taking just one minute.
A Manifestation of the Vision for Sacred Site Care
The project to shade the courtyards of the Prophet’s Mosque symbolizes the immense care the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia provides to the guests of Ar-Rahman. With its unique blend of innovative design and high specifications, the project reflects architectural beauty and profound spirituality, adding a distinctive character to the courtyards of the Prophet’s Mosque.