The Al-Ruwaybah Mosque in the city of Buraydah, in the Al-Qassim region, is one of the most prominent mosques included in the second phase of Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s project to develop historic mosques, as part of the project’s efforts to preserve the authentic architectural identity of the Kingdom’s historic mosques. The project is carrying out meticulous restoration work that preserves the mosque’s distinctive materials and spatial elements, while allowing for limited additions that do not affect its unique historical character—most notably its traditional roof, which is made of mud, athl wood, and palm fronds.
More Than 130 Years of History
The Al-Ruwayba Mosque dates back more than 130 years and is located approximately 7.5 km southeast of the municipality of Buraydah. Since its construction, the mosque has undergone only one restoration, in 1364 AH, and has retained its authentic heritage character. Despite the passage of time, prayers are still held there today. In the past, it served as a center for prayer and a school for the study of the Holy Quran, in addition to its role as a center for teaching reading, writing, and various Islamic sciences, making it a beacon of knowledge and culture for the people of the region.
Authentic Najdi Style Reflecting the Environment and Culture
Al-Ruwaiyah Mosque is distinguished by its traditional ceiling, which embodies the Najdi style of heritage architecture, known for its ability to adapt to the local environment and the hot desert climate. The structural elements of this roof—including the beams, perpendicular logs, and a layer of thatch covered with a final layer of mud— — are a prime example of traditional Najdi architecture, with the final layer of mud serving as an insulating material that protects the roof from rain and maintains its stability.
Before the renovation began, the mosque’s area was 203.93 square meters, and upon completion of the restoration work, it will increase to 232.61 square meters, with the capacity for worshippers rising from 60 to 74, reflecting the project’s commitment to combining thoughtful expansion with the preservation of original historical elements.
Development Based on Standards That Combine Authenticity and Sustainability
Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s project to develop historic mosques is based on an approach that balances traditional and contemporary construction standards, with the aim of promoting sustainability while preserving heritage identity. The work is being carried out by Saudi companies specializing in heritage buildings, with the involvement of Saudi engineers to ensure that all stages of development are executed in a way that preserves the unique architectural identity of each mosque as it has been since its founding.
Continuing the Journey of Heritage Preservation
The development of the Al-Ruwaybah Mosque is part of the second phase of the Historic Mosques Development Project, which was launched following the success of the first phase, which involved the restoration and rehabilitation of 30 historic mosques across 10 regions. The project aims to achieve four main objectives: rehabilitating historic mosques for worship and prayer; restoring the architectural authenticity of these mosques; highlighting the Kingdom’s cultural and historical heritage; and enhancing the religious and cultural significance of historic mosques.
The Historic Mosques Development Project reflects the overall direction of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, which places great emphasis on consolidating cultural and civilizational dimensions, by preserving authentic architectural features and incorporating them into the design of modern mosques, thereby combining tradition with innovation and strengthening the Kingdom’s cultural identity.
