Jawatha: Jawatha Mosque, built in the seventh year of Hijra and located in Al-Ahsa Governorate, Eastern Region, blends Islamic history with authentic architectural heritage. Now part of the second phase of the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Project for the Development of Historic Mosques, it holds the distinction of being the second mosque in Islam where Friday prayers were performed, following the Prophet's Mosque in Madinah. Its architectural style, featuring distinctive internal arches, mihrabs, windows, and doors, is also remarkable.
According to Saudi Press Agency, the mosque's construction is attributed to the Banu Qays tribe, who established it after their second delegation to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Jawatha served as the capital of ancient Hajar during the early Islamic era. Resembling the Prophet's Mosque in design, it features three arcades and a layout adapted to the region's varying climates. The development project will preserve its human-scale architectural elements.
The renovation of Jawatha Mosque, maintaining its area of 205.5 square meters and accommodating 170 worshippers, is part of this phase. The project honors the Eastern Region's architectural style, which is tailored to the coastal region's hot climate, emphasizing natural ventilation through windows, openings, balconies, and spacious courtyards.
Jawatha Mosque is one of 30 mosques across all 13 regions of the Kingdom in the project's second phase, including six mosques in Riyadh, five in Makkah, four in Madinah, three in Aseer, two each in the Eastern Region, Al-Jouf, and Jazan, and one each in the Northern Borders, Tabuk, Al-Baha, Najran, Hail, and Qassim. The second phase follows the successful completion of the first, which restored 30 historic mosques across 10 regions.
The Prince Mohammed bin Salman Project balances traditional and modern construction standards, ensuring the sustainability of mosque components while preserving heritage and historical characteristics. Saudi companies specializing in heritage restoration are carrying out the development.
The project's four strategic objectives include restoring historic mosques for worship, preserving their architectural authenticity, highlighting the Kingdom's cultural heritage, and enhancing their religious and cultural significance. It also aligns with Vision 2030 by preserving architectural heritage and integrating it into modern mosque designs.