An urgent proposal to restore or completely rebuild the 39-year-old Fatima Bint Al Rasul Mosque in Hamad Town has been unanimously approved by the Northern Municipal Council following growing concerns about public safety and community welfare.
The mosque, which is affiliated with the Sunni Waqf (Endowments) Directorate, is located on Road 1036 in Block 1210.
Concerned councillors and local residents have warned that the structure is now severely deteriorated and may pose a serious hazard to worshippers and people living close by.
The proposal by four councillors was led by area councillor Abdulla Al Qobaisi. “This mosque is not only a place of worship, it is a vital community centre used by residents for prayer, religious classes and social activities.
“We have received multiple complaints from citizens regarding the deteriorating conditions – inside and out – including the restrooms, ablution facilities and roof.”
He said the crumbling mosque has not undergone significant restoration in decades and now appears to be suffering from structural wear and tear.
“We cannot wait for a tragic incident to occur before action is taken,” he said. “This proposal reflects the urgent need for either full maintenance or reconstruction, in line with the directives of HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister to rehabilitate mosques across the kingdom.”
Mr Al Qobaisi confirmed that the Sunni Endowments Directorate under the Justice, Islamic Affairs and Endowments Ministry has been contacted several times about the issue and has participated in discussions.
“While there have been meetings and some understanding, no solid commitment has been made yet. We are now asking the council to formally submit a recommendation to Minister Nawaf Al Maawda to intervene swiftly,” he said.
“We are all committed to ensuring that this mosque is rebuilt stronger, safer and continues to serve generations to come.”
Council members voted unanimously to include the matter as a priority, with the proposal backed by the council’s financial, administrative and legislative committee chairman Dr Salman Abdulla, who has presented the study as a signee.
“Places of worship are sacred, but they must also be safe,” said Dr Abdulla. “The Fatima Bint Al Rasul Mosque has long served the faithful in constituency nine, but its current condition is unacceptable. We must take collective responsibility to protect both the sanctity of this space and the well-being of its users.”
He added that the mosque’s situation reflects broader issues in mosque infrastructure across older areas, and that the council is committed to pushing for solutions through co-ordination with ministries and stakeholders.
“This isn’t just about one mosque,” Dr Abdulla noted. “It’s about reaffirming our duty to preserve spiritual spaces while aligning with national development goals and urban safety standards.”
The approved motion now tasks the council’s general-secretariat, led by council chairman Dr Sayed Shubbar Al Wedaie, to draft an official recommendation to Mr Al Maawda to take immediate measures for the mosque’s restoration or reconstruction.
Council members also agreed to propose land reallocation, budgetary facilitation and expedited permit processing if required.
Sunni Waqf Directorate officials were unavailable for comment.
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