RIYADH: The Prince Mohammed bin Salman Project for the Development of Historic Mosques is restoring the Al-Fath Mosque in the Al-Jumum governorate, one of 60 mosques out of 130 undergoing repairs.

Al-Fath Mosque, believed to have been prayed in by the Prophet Muhammad, will expand from 455.77 sq. meters to 553.50 sq. meters, increasing its capacity from 218 to 333 worshippers.

In the first and second phases of the restoration project, workers used natural materials such as brick, basalt stone, gypsum, and wood to preserve the architectural style of the Hijaz region. Traditional elements, such as the intricate wooden balcony screens, will also be preserved.

The mosque is situated 260 meters off the road connecting Makkah and Madinah. It has been subject to prolonged neglect over the years. The last major restoration took place in 1998, during which a prayer area for women and additional facilities were added, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

It is one of the mosques being restored in the second phase of the project, which spans all 13 regions, including Riyadh, Madinah, Aseer, Jouf, and Jazan. The project is part of Vision 2030’s commitment to preserving Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage and enhancing the historical and religious significance of its mosques.