Al Rahma - Floating Mosque - Jeddah

Location and Origin

Located on the edge of the Corniche Road in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia is the Al Rahma Floating Mosque, also known as Fatima Al Zahra Mosque. It lies on the northern tip of Jeddah’s waterfront across the Red Sea and is attached to the shore by a walkway surrounded by low walls. The mosque was built in 1985 and is one of Jeddah’s most visited mosques. 

It is known as the ‘floating mosque’ because at high tide, the mosque appears to hover over the waves of the Red Sea below and also because of the stilts that suspend it above the edge of the water.

Architecture

The mosque combines ancient and modern Islamic architecture. It is built in the form of a turquoise domed structure with a white minaret and also consists of 52 outer domes in addition to its main dome. There are also 23 external umbrellas, which are engraved with verses of the Holy Quran.

The mosque has a total of 56 windows, all designed in the Islamic style. The central dome is supported by eight pillars and the roof is inlaid with stained glass, from which hangs a chandelier. The mosque is now equipped with advanced lighting and sound systems. Facilities in the mosque include a prayer area and an area for wudhu (abulation).

The mosque has an open courtyard which offers spectacular views of the coast and a chance to enjoy the sea breeze with the sound of waves adding serenity to the ambience.

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