Construction is set to begin this month on a new mosque in Hidd, which blends traditional Islamic styling with modern architectural design.
The ‘Arch Mosque’ in the Bu Shaheen area of East Hidd is being built on a 2,380sqm plot and is scheduled for completion by early-to-mid 2026.
“We initiated the design process in 2018 and completed the tender by 2020, following the finalisation of the interior details,” a spokesperson for Kuwait-based architectural firm Babnimnim Design Studio, which designed the mosque, told the GDN.
“The design concept was propelled by the intent to harmonise traditional Islamic architectural elements with modern nuances.”
Inspired by long rows of columns at the Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba in Spain, the Arch Mosque design aims to replicate these rhythmic arch patterns, while infusing them with modern elements.
Another inspiration is the conceptual design Sou Fujimoto developed for the city of Doha, Qatar, in 2013.
Through the elegant arches of this new mosque, worshippers will be guided from the structured exterior of the complex, flanked by tall palm trees symbolising the five pillars of Islam, towards the interior Qibla wall, which faces Mecca.
Focus
Mr Al Saddah
According to the architectural firm’s founding partner and creative director Jassim Al Saddah, the design focuses on creating a meaningful spiritual journey for the mosque’s visitors, combining a deep sense of tradition with thoughtful, functional innovations.
Central to the design of the Arch Mosque is the use of round arches, subtly different in size to give a three-dimensional or trompe l’oeil effect.
There will also be an inverted dome near the Mihrab, as well as strategically positioned skylights to maximise natural sunlight, fostering a tranquil atmosphere.
The mosque also includes a multipurpose hall, administrative offices and a dedicated floor for female worshippers, complete with a separate lecture hall for Quranic studies.
“Incorporating the mosque into its Al Hidd environment, we adhered to local architectural standards while embedding innovative elements such as an inverted dome and strategically positioned skylights,” Mr Al Saddah told the GDN. “The structure’s orientation is deliberately slanted towards the Qibla, optimising spiritual alignment.
“These features not only elevate the mosque’s aesthetics but also boost its functionality by maximising natural light, thereby fostering a tranquil yet captivating ambiance.”
By reducing the need for artificial lighting at cooling with its window slits and shaded ground-level windows, the Arch Mosque also seeks to be environmentally sustainable.
“As the architect of the Arch Mosque, this project is a heartfelt homage to my mother, whose spirit inspires its name,” Mr Al Saddah added. “Delving into the design, I find profound resonance in the rhythmic interplay of forms and repetitions defining its structure.
“Nestled within Al Hidd’s reclaimed residential landscape, the mosque emerges not just as a place of worship but as a stage set for the sacred rituals of Islam.
“Each architectural element is choreographed to enhance the performative aspects of prayer and purification, guiding worshippers through a journey of spiritual preparation.”
The designs for the new mosque have been approved by the Justice, Islamic Affairs and Waqf (Endowments) Ministry.
naman@gdnmedia.bh
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