The Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Endowments, Dawah and Guidance is planning to revamp the historic Quba Mosque in the Prophet's City at a total cost of SR100 million. The foundation of Quba, the first mosque ever built, was laid by Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) upon his arrival in Madina from Makkah. The mosque was completed in 622 C.E. Dr. Muhammad Al-Ameen Bin Khateri, Director of the ministry's Madina branch, said final details are being worked out by the Madina Mayoralty and the Madina Development Commission. “The project has been approved by the ministry in Riyadh and the study will be completed soon.” Dr. Tawfiq Al-Sudairi, Undersecretary for Mosque Affairs, at the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, was quoted by Asharq Alawsat as saying that the Quba Mosque project is the responsibility of the ministry's Madina branch. Prince Abdul Aziz Bin Majed Bin Abdul Aziz, Emir of Madina region and Chairman of the Madina Development Commission, announced the commission's approval last month to develop the Quba and Miqat areas, and the King Abdul Aziz Center near the Central Area. The project, Prince Abdul Aziz said, will be based on a study conducted by the commission which aims to highlight the urban identity of Madina. The study focuses on expanding Quba Mosque by building courtyards and parking lots covered with canopies. A total of SR30 million has been allocated for the construction of gates at the entrance, which will fit in with its traditional and cultural character. Asharq Alawsat quoted Bin Khateri as saying that the ministry started last Tuesday to expand and restore Al-Shohada Mosque in Madina. The 8,000 sq. meter project will be completed in 24 months. The total cost of mosque renovation projects is SR616.9 million, of which SR82.7 million has been allocated in this year's budget. Bin Khateri said the ministry's projects include providing maintenance and cleaning services for these mosques.
