Project restores Al-Oudah Mosque in Diriyah using traditional Najdi methods

 

Project restores one of the oldest mosques in Diriyah

The historic Al-Oudah Mosque in Diriyah, a key heritage site in Riyadh, is undergoing a major restoration as part of the Mohammed bin Salman Project for Developing Historic Mosques. Now in its second phase, the project seeks to restore the mosque’s historical and architectural significance, using traditional Najdi construction methods to bring back its original grandeur.

One of the oldest mosques in the region, Al-Oudah Mosque has undergone three previous restorations, the most recent taking place about 15 years ago. This new restoration will expand the mosque's area from 794 square meters to 1,369.82 square meters, increasing its capacity from 510 to 992 worshippers. The expansion strikes a balance between preserving the mosque’s rich history and meeting the growing needs of the local community.

 

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Revitalization of Al-Oudah Mosque in Diriyah
This restoration is part of a broader project that includes 30 mosques across Saudi Arabia’s 13 regions. Six mosques are being restored in Riyadh, while Makkah and Madinah are each seeing five and four mosques restored, respectively. Other regions such as Aseer, the Eastern Region, Al-Jouf, and Jazan each have multiple mosques undergoing renovation, with single restorations in areas like Northern Borders, Tabuk, Al-Baha, Najran, Hail, and Qassim.

Traditional Najdi construction techniques, including mud construction and the use of natural materials suited to the desert climate, are being employed to ensure the mosque retains its historical authenticity while meeting modern sustainability standards. Leading Saudi heritage restoration companies are spearheading the effort.

The second phase of the Mohammed bin Salman Project follows the successful first phase, which restored 30 historic mosques across ten regions. This initiative is aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, focusing on the preservation of architectural heritage while integrating contemporary mosque designs.

 

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Strategic Objectives
The project's primary goals are to restore historic mosques for continued use in worship while preserving their architectural integrity. It also aims to highlight Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage and enhance the religious and cultural significance of these sites. By blending traditional construction methods with modern standards, the project ensures that mosque structures are sustainable while retaining their historical essence.

This comprehensive restoration effort demonstrates a strong commitment to preserving Saudi Arabia’s cultural landmarks, ensuring that they meet both contemporary needs and historical preservation standards. The focus on both expansion and preservation emphasizes the importance of maintaining the mosque’s historical legacy while adapting it to serve the community today.

Source: One Arabia