The canopies of the Prophet’s Mosque are among its most prominent engineering systems, combining aesthetic design with operational efficiency.
They protect worshippers and visitors from direct sunlight and rain, helping provide a suitable environment for performing religious rites and moving around the courtyards under varying weather conditions.
A total of 250 retractable canopies cover the courtyards surrounding the Prophet’s Mosque, spanning 143,000 square meters and providing shade for more than 228,000 worshippers.
The canopies also play an important role during rainfall, providing extensive covered areas that keep worshippers dry. They work with drainage systems to help prevent water from accumulating in the courtyards and reduce the risk of slipping.
The canopies are designed according to a sophisticated engineering system and operate automatically through dedicated mechanisms that allow them to open at sunrise and close before sunset.
The canopy system integrates technical equipment to cool the surrounding areas. It includes 436 misting fans distributed along the sides of the canopies, each equipped with 16 nozzles that spray treated water, along with more than 1,000 lighting units.
The system is managed through a central control room that monitors its operation based on courtyard needs and the number of worshippers, while improving its ability to respond efficiently to changing weather conditions.
Source: Riyadh Daily