Al Manarah is a contemporary community mosque located within King Salman Park in Riyadh, envisioned as a beacon of worship, knowledge, and social connection. The project seeks to redefine the traditional role of the mosque by creating a multifunctional environment that supports spiritual practices while fostering education, cultural engagement, and community interaction. Inspired by the symbolic meaning of the minaret as a source of guidance, the design utilizes natural light, contemporary Islamic architectural principles, and inclusive spaces to create a welcoming destination for people of all ages. The project's primary objective is to strengthen the relationship between faith and community by providing an integrated setting that promotes worship, learning, belonging, and social cohesion while contributing positively to the urban and cultural identity of King Salman Park.
Al Manarah is a contemporary community mosque designed to serve as a center for worship, education, and social engagement within King Salman Park in Riyadh. The project scope includes the design of a main prayer hall, women's prayer hall, ablution facilities, a landmark minaret, Quran learning spaces, a library, community gathering areas, meeting rooms, children's facilities, and supporting administrative and service spaces. The design integrates spiritual, educational, and social functions within a cohesive architectural environment that promotes accessibility, inclusivity, and community interaction. Through the use of natural light, sustainable design strategies, and contemporary Islamic architectural principles, the project aims to create a welcoming destination that enhances the worship experience while supporting lifelong learning and strengthening social connections among users.
Project Name: Al Manarah – Community Mosque
Project Type: Religious and Community Facility
Location: King Salman Park, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Building Function: Contemporary mosque integrating worship, education, and community activities.
Total Capacity: Approximately 300 worshippers.
Building Components:
Main Prayer Hall (Men)
Women's Prayer Hall
Minaret
Ablution Areas
Imam's Office and Support Spaces
Quran Learning Rooms
Library and Reading Area
Community Majlis
Multipurpose Educational Spaces
Children's Activity Area
Administrative Offices
Service and Storage Areas
Architectural Style: Contemporary Islamic Architecture
Structural System: Reinforced concrete frame structure with long-span elements in major gathering spaces.
Primary Materials:
Natural stone cladding
Textured plaster finishes
Wood accents and wall treatments
Glass façades and openings
Aluminum and steel architectural elements
Environmental Strategies:
Daylight optimization through vertical openings and skylights
Energy-efficient LED lighting systems
High-performance glazing
Natural ventilation where applicable
Water-efficient plumbing fixtures
Sustainable material selection
Accessibility:
Barrier-free circulation
Accessible entrances and pathways
Accessible prayer and ablution facilities
Elevator access where required
Compliance with universal design principles
Building Services:
HVAC system for thermal comfort
Integrated lighting system
Fire safety and alarm systems
Security and surveillance systems
Audio system for prayers and announcements
ICT and communication infrastructure
Design Standards:
Saudi Building Code (SBC)
Ministry of Islamic Affairs guidelines
Universal Design principles
Sustainability and environmental design considerations