URBAN PLANNING CHALLENGES IN AL-MADINAH ALUrban Planning Challenges
in
MUNAWARAH –SAUDI ARABIA
Al-Madinah Al-Munawarah
Saudi Arabia
Paper submitted to IGU
Urban Commission Meeting
Held at Canterbury Christ
Church University
Canterbury, UK
August 14-20, 2011
IGU Urban Commission Meeting Held in Canterbury-UK, August 14-20,2011
URBAN PLANNING CHALLENGES IN AL-MADINAH ALMUNAWARAH –SAUDI ARABIA
Prepared by
Dr. Mohamed A. Ali
Professor of Urban Geography
(Urban and Regional Planning & GIs
Scientific Advisor for Tiabah University Institute
For Research and Consulting (TURCI)
Al-Madinah Al-Munawarah
Saudi Arabia
Email : dralgawad@yahoo.com
IGU Urban Commission Meeting Held in Canterbury-UK, August 14-20,2011
URBAN PLANNING CHALLENGES IN AL-MADINAH ALMUNAWARAH –SAUDI ARABIA
Content:
Abstract
(1) The Early Nuclei and Origin
Introduction
(2) Previous Proposals
Research Questions
(3) Existing Conditions, its Components
and Challenging Objects.
Research Objectives
Research Methodology
(4) Development Plans
C. Constrains

Data Source

Study Procedure

Spatio-Temporal Determents
D. Proposed Options of Expansions
(1) Rauwaaq and Haram Plaza (Religious
Plaza)
Spatial Analysis of Prophet
(2) New Manakha Plaza (Civic Plaza)
Mohamad's Mosque Expansion
E. Transport's Challenges in Central
Areas
A. Vision of Expansion
B. History of Expansion
Conclusion.
References
IGU Urban Commission Meeting Held in Canterbury-UK, August 14-20,2011
URBAN PLANNING CHALLENGES IN AL-MADINAH ALMUNAWARAH –SAUDI ARABIA
Abstract:
Urban Planning Challenges in Almadinah Almunawarah,
Saudi Arabia
By
Mohamed A. Ali
Almadinah Almunawarag, Saudi Arabia is the Holy City where the
Prophet Mohamed was buried and is now distinguished by the Prophet
Mohamed Mosque. Its unparalleled characteristics stem from the fact that
its central functions serve both its permanent residents as well as pilgrims
and visitors from all over the Muslim World whose number exceed the
permanent population each year. The necessary expansion of the Holy
Prophet Mohamed Mosque to accommodate the accelerating numbers of
pilgrims and visitors takes place through a process of horizontal expansion
and is usually accomplished by costly demolition of adjacent buildings and
areas.
Consequently, urban form, social structure, commercial functions and
transportation and service networks in several sections of the city are badly
affected. Increasing economic and commercial development in the areas
immediately around the Mosque have caused pressures that have resulted
in a dense accumulation of buildings with height that surpasses that of the
Minarets of Prophet Mohamed Holy Mosque.
IGU Urban Commission Meeting Held in Canterbury-UK, August 14-20,2011
URBAN PLANNING CHALLENGES IN AL-MADINAH ALMUNAWARAH –SAUDI ARABIA
Abstract:
These new developments have overwhelmed not only the Great
Mosque's architectural characteristics, but also diminish its divine
and spiritual presence. In order to solve this dilemma and these
rather complex multi-dimensional urban problems this paper
attempts to explore some comprehensive objectives and provides a
variety of urban-spatial planning solutions.
Key Words: Almadinah, Saudi Arabia, Prophet Mohamed Mosque,
Pilgrims, Urban Spatial Planning.
IGU Urban Commission Meeting Held in Canterbury-UK, August 14-20,2011
Introduction:
URBAN PLANNING CHALLENGES IN AL-MADINAH ALMUNAWARAH –SAUDI ARABIA
Holy cities worldwide are limited in numbers:
Display unique urban characteristics.
Theories of city growth and Urban spatial laws and development are partially
rather rarely applicable nor compatible to Holy Cities.
They have unparallel characteristics:
•Ancient Historical Origin, Holy and religious roots.
•Traditional growth and preservation.
•Seasonality.
Central functions to serve worshipers and visitors whose member in many
cases surpasses the permanent inhabitants.
All of the above caused critical planning issue in Makkah Almukarama and
Almadinah Almunawarah in Saudi Arabia (needs for housing services and
public utilities…... Transportation…. etc.)
Prophet Mohamad's Mosque (PBUH))
•Have considerable bearing to the increasing number of pilgrims because of :
•Visiting Prophet Mosque is essential ritual.
•The visit is usually done yearly by 99% of pilgrims.
(* ) (PBUH): Means Peace be upon Him, Muslim must say these words whenever the name of Prophet
mentioned. (In Arabic : Salla Allah Alihi Wasalm).
IGU Urban Commission Meeting Held in Canterbury-UK, August 14-20,2011
Introduction:
URBAN PLANNING CHALLENGES IN AL-MADINAH ALMUNAWARAH –SAUDI ARABIA
Historical continuous expansion of the Prophet
Mosque:
•Continued from Prophet's Time till contemporary
era.
•To accommodate increasing number of visitors.
•Usually is horizontal expansion.
•On expenses of adjacent areas (Central Area of
Almadinah Almunwarah).
•Costly demolishing operations.
•Shrinking central surrounding area around the
Prophet Mosque.
•Which on other hand experience continuous
pressure by dense and huge development and
proposed investment projects.
•Complications by traffic and transportation
problems.
IGU Urban Commission Meeting Held in Canterbury-UK, August 14-20,2011
Introduction:
URBAN PLANNING CHALLENGES IN AL-MADINAH ALMUNAWARAH –SAUDI ARABIA
Problem:
Finding the balance between the necessity of horizontal expansion of
the Mosque to accommodate million of visitors and pilgrim, and its
surrounding shrinking central area consider to be critical problem that
need spatial planning proposals , alternatives and solutions.(Figure -1)
Figure-1: Expansion Options within Shrinking Crowded Area
Source : DCM,2010
IGU Urban Commission Meeting Held in Canterbury-UK, August 14-20,2011
Research Questions:
URBAN PLANNING CHALLENGES IN AL-MADINAH ALMUNAWARAH –SAUDI ARABIA
(1)What are the major historical/spiritual deeply rooted principals that the
vision for the necessity of Prophet Mosque expansion can be build upon?
(2) What are the main elements (spatial –non spatial) of the existing Holy site
which houses the Prophet's Mosque;
 Physical character.
 Visual appearance.
 Integration with its immediate surrounding areas: the central area, and
the city as a whole?
(3) What is the required future area of expansions for the Prophet's Mosque
and what is the need and necessity for such expansion?
(4) What are the main existing constraints that affect the proposed spatial
organization and the spatial reorganization (or spatial new order) of the
Haram(*) area?
(5) How the integration between the Prophet's Mosque and the city central
area can be achieved and ensured?
(6) What are the possible scenarios (options/alternatives) for directions and
features of expansion?
(*) Haram : Means the immediate surrounding area closely attached around the Prophet's
Mosque. Haram from word "Haraam", means it should be kept away from any harmful act
or say or sins..etc, should be clean, safe, secure and peaceful.
IGU Urban Commission Meeting Held in Canterbury-UK, August 14-20,2011
Research Objectives:
URBAN PLANNING CHALLENGES IN AL-MADINAH ALMUNAWARAH –SAUDI ARABIA
(A) The Major Goal : for searching for alternatives to the horizontal
expansion of the Prophet Mohammad's Mosque is to bring up new
spatial order, or spatially reorganizing the main features in the
immediate surrounding area around the Mosque called: "Haram
Plaza". This should be done in a way that maximizes spirituality of
the place, and safeguard its divinity. This rather spiritual major
goal requires:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Creation of a well defined spiritual precinct around the
Prophet's Mosque.
Finding out ways allowing for greater pedestrian accessibility
into the spiritual precinct.
Indentifying civic space connected to the spiritual precinct and
Prophet's Mosque.
Establishing cultural and civic precinct that reinforces the
connection between the city especially the central area and the
Holy site.
IGU Urban Commission Meeting Held in Canterbury-UK, August 14-20,2011
Research Objectives:
URBAN PLANNING CHALLENGES IN AL-MADINAH ALMUNAWARAH –SAUDI ARABIA
(B) Specific Objectives: In order to achieve the above major
exploratory rather spiritual goals, more specific investigative
objectives that suggest alternatives for expansion were set,
these are:
1. Define the required future area of expansion for the Prophet's
Mosque and identify the need for expansion.
2. Propose scenarios for directions and features of such
expansion.
3. Ensure spatial and functional integration with the Mosque's
surrounding.
4. Identify the major existing constraints that affect the
proposed spatial organization.
5. Recommend Geo-informatics (Geomatics) strategy or
methodology as a spatial basis for integration and analysis.
IGU Urban Commission Meeting Held in Canterbury-UK, August 14-20,2011
Research Methodology:
URBAN PLANNING CHALLENGES IN AL-MADINAH ALMUNAWARAH –SAUDI ARABIA
1.
The study follows descriptive analytical spatial approach.
2.
Study data sources :
(A) Reports:
Growth and development Plan.
Structure Plan.
Land use Planning Strategies.
( B) Cartographic materials :
Maps with various scale.
Air-photo.
Modern Current Satellite images and Maps from Google Earth.
(C) Extensive Arabic Literature() on Almadinah Almunawarah
(*) Bibliographic sources mention that no city in the world have
such written voluminous material and accumulated literature
such as that of been written on Makka and Madinah.
IGU Urban Commission Meeting Held in Canterbury-UK, August 14-20,2011
Research Methodology:
URBAN PLANNING CHALLENGES IN AL-MADINAH ALMUNAWARAH –SAUDI ARABIA
(D) Intensive Field work:
Observation.
Recording notes.
(3) Study Procedures:
A. Building the theoretical conceptual framework.
B. Examining and analyzing the existing condition
in Haram's Plaza (area) .
C. Attempting to create a spatial data base for the
study element.
D. Analyzing the Data.
E. Answering the study posed questions.
F. Introducing some proposal, suggestions and
spatial solutions.
IGU Urban Commission Meeting Held in Canterbury-UK, August 14-20,2011
Research Methodology:
URBAN PLANNING CHALLENGES IN AL-MADINAH ALMUNAWARAH –SAUDI ARABIA
(4) Spatio-Temporal Determents:
The Expansion of Prophet's Mosque is controlled by three
determents, have sensitive nature to the spatiotemporal factors,
which have been affected by qualitative (subjective) and quantitative
(objective) factors:
A. Transportation: regarding worshipper's movements to, from and
around the Prophet's Mosque at certain seasons (Hajj, Umra(), other
peak times)
B. Population: Assumptions and projection of population (inhabitants
and visitors) growth help identify future worshipper peak periods
during Ramadan (Holy month of fasting) , Hajj , Umra and Friday
weekly prayer.
C. Open Space Strategy: Integration of the central area strategies
with city wide initiatives ensure connectivity of the Prophet's
Mosque with surroundings neighborhoods and provide link to
various historic sites as well.
(*)Umra: means conducting partial religious duties during visiting Makka such TAWA'AF
(walking around Ka'aba seven times) and SA'I (marching between little remains of two
mountains called Safa and Marwa where Hajar (Ibrahim wife ) with her child (Ismail)
son of Ibrahim were searching for water.
IGU Urban Commission Meeting Held in Canterbury-UK, August 14-20,2011
URBAN PLANNING CHALLENGES IN AL-MADINAH ALMUNAWARAH –SAUDI ARABIA
Spatial Analysis of Prophet's Mosque Expansion:
Vision of Expansion:
(A) Based on History of Islam:
 The journey of Prophet Mohamad called Hijra (from Makka to
Madinah) .
 All Muslims welcome and encourage to pray there.
 All should have equal opportunity to be accommodated.
I. Ensured a spiritual and spatial quality around the Mosque.
II. Ensure a fulfilling religious and Civic experience.
III. Secure basic needs of all visitors and residents.
IV. Accommodate the expansion pressures placed on Madinah's
C.B.D.(Central Area).
(B) Duel Planning Problem:
1) Spatial and spiritual quality of the Prophet's Mosque in order to:
 Meet the worshipers basics needs.
 Achieve self actualization and oneness with GOD.
2) Spatial Planning and its modern tools:
 Enables cities to identify, prescribe, and deliver beneficial and
preferred features for urban space.
IGU Urban Commission Meeting Held in Canterbury-UK, August 14-20,2011
URBAN PLANNING CHALLENGES IN AL-MADINAH ALMUNAWARAH –SAUDI ARABIA
Spatial Analysis of Prophet's Mosque Expansion:
(C) Four Explorative Options for Expansion of Haram Plaza:
The options:
1. Surrounding the Prophet's Mosque with Ruwaaq() or Perimeter
Prayer Buildings.
2. Redefining Northern Edge of the Haram Plaza with Prayer
Buildings.
3. Enclosing the Haram Plaza with Ruwaaq or Perimeter Prayer
Buildings.
4. Option has been developed based on feedback on the most
successful elements of the above three options.
Each of these Options:
• Developed by various agencies , Government, Consultant, people
and public opinion.
• Accommodate future expansion pressure on the Prophet's
Mosque.
• Have clear strategy and rationale.
• Ensure the sanctity of the Prophet's Mosque and Haram Plaza.
(*) Ruwaaq: Arabic word means open space, huge in area for people to meet,
socialize and rest.
IGU Urban Commission Meeting Held in Canterbury-UK, August 14-20,2011
URBAN PLANNING CHALLENGES IN AL-MADINAH ALMUNAWARAH –SAUDI ARABIA
Spatial Analysis of Prophet's Mosque Expansion:
(D) History of Expansion:
1) Early Nuclei and Origin:
 The Prophet's Mosque is situated on the site of the Prophet's
former house, whose courtyard was the first social and religious
centre of the early Muslim community.
 From its modest beginnings, the house grew into a mosque and
the mosque became the centre of a community.
 Its growth spanned fourteen centuries, with over a millennia of
that time without much significant change to its design (Figure-2)
 It is only in the last century that there has been a rapid and
systematic expansion, no doubt brought on by the pressure
placed on the Prophet's Mosque by a significant increase in
visitors facilitated by modern transportation.
Figure-2: Historical Expansion of the Prophet's Mosque
IGU Urban Commission Meeting Held in Canterbury-UK, August 14-20,2011
URBAN PLANNING CHALLENGES IN AL-MADINAH ALMUNAWARAH –SAUDI ARABIA
Spatial Analysis of Prophet's Mosque Expansion:
1910
1960
1978
1983
1970
1990
2010
Figrue-3: Recent Expansion of the Prophet's Mosque (For Last Hundred years).
Source: Various Historical Sources and (DCM, 2010) with modification
IGU Urban Commission Meeting Held in Canterbury-UK, August 14-20,2011
URBAN PLANNING CHALLENGES IN AL-MADINAH ALMUNAWARAH –SAUDI ARABIA
Spatial Analysis of Prophet's Mosque Expansion:
2) Stages and Condition of Each Expansion:
Figure-3 outlines the expansions in conjunction with progressive
clearance of the historic fabric of Central Madinah, and successive urban
interventions around the Mosque, over the past century (1910 to 2010).
Shown are conditions around:
 (1910), with the newly constructed avenue leading to the gate, of Bab
Salaam;
 (1960), after the construction of the new Saudi mosque and various
provisions for vehicular traffic, including new access to Bab Salaam
from the south;
 (1970), after clearance of part of the historic fabric west of the Haram;
 (1978), after further clearance due to the construction of temporary
prayer sheds;
 (1983), after a fire which destroyed the left portion of the Aghawat
district;
 (1990), after total clearance of the Aghawat district;
 Currently (2010-2011), after a second, much larger Saudi expansion to
the Prophet's Mosque, the clearing of an even larger area around the
Mosque and its subsequent redevelopment as a hotel district serving the
Prophet's Mosque. This current Central Area is firmly defined and
bound by the oval of the 1st Ring Road (Figure-4).
IGU Urban Commission Meeting Held in Canterbury-UK, August 14-20,2011
URBAN PLANNING CHALLENGES IN AL-MADINAH ALMUNAWARAH –SAUDI ARABIA
Spatial Analysis of Prophet's Mosque Expansion:
Figure-4: Madinah Central Area Development Plan, bounded by the oval the 1st Ring Road (2001).
Source: Al-Madinah Municipality.
IGU Urban Commission Meeting Held in Canterbury-UK, August 14-20,2011
URBAN PLANNING CHALLENGES IN AL-MADINAH ALMUNAWARAH –SAUDI ARABIA
Spatial Analysis of Prophet's Mosque Expansion:
(3) Previous Studies and Proposals for Expansion and Spatial
Reorganization Trails:
King Fahd Expansion Project (1985) :
•Arosed major concerns regarding Almadina Central Areas .
•Preparation of Almadinah Central Area Plan (Comprehensive)
 Central Area Executive Committee (1989); its main objective is:
•Regulate the development projects in CBD
•Enforce regulation of the plan.
•Develop Almadinah central area action plan:
•Seeks better integration of neighboring urban fabric with 1985
expansion;
•Faced with problems of narrow streets and Paths; which in turn:
1. Created problems for accessibility and circulation.
2. impeded traffic flew and highlighted congestion levels.
The plan sought to minimize the walking distances to the Holy
Mosque.
IGU Urban Commission Meeting Held in Canterbury-UK, August 14-20,2011
URBAN PLANNING CHALLENGES IN AL-MADINAH ALMUNAWARAH –SAUDI ARABIA
Spatial Analysis of Prophet's Mosque Expansion:
 Called for :
o The development of public parking lots beneath the central area.
o Underground public transportation station beneath the expanded
area of the Prophet's Mosque eastern Plaza.
 Upgrading the 1st Ring Road with intersections and pedestrian
underpasses, that would help to:
o Reduce the conflict between pedestrian and vehicular movement.
o Enable designated and unimpeded locations for pedestrian access
to the C.B.D.
 Other Pressing Issues:
o Conflict between use of public transit system.
o Employment of auto oriented strategies (personal private public
use)
o Failure of Plans to clearly outline (identify) the hierarchy of the
transport networks (Figure-5).
IGU Urban Commission Meeting Held in Canterbury-UK, August 14-20,2011
URBAN PLANNING CHALLENGES IN AL-MADINAH ALMUNAWARAH –SAUDI ARABIA
Spatial Analysis of Prophet's Mosque Expansion:
Figure-5: Madinah Public Transport Network (Existing Hierarchy and Proposed Additional Links)
Source: DCM, 2010
IGU Urban Commission Meeting Held in Canterbury-UK, August 14-20,2011
URBAN PLANNING CHALLENGES IN AL-MADINAH ALMUNAWARAH –SAUDI ARABIA
Spatial Analysis of Prophet's Mosque Expansion:
Dramatic Changes as a result of the Plan:
Historic buildings stock was deteriorated :
oUnable to handle growing demand for larger capacities.
oLacking the provision of necessary public service.
oUtilities network largely obsolete.
Final Result/ Conclusion:
In order to meet the growing demand for visitor's accommodation in
the central area, virtually all of the original building stock has now
been replaced.
(4) Challenging set of Objectives for the Central Area Development
Plan:
Present Plan Objectives:
o Maximization of capacity for accommodations;
o Minimization of walking distances to the Holy Mosque;
o Improvement of pedestrian circulation;
o Enhancement of vehicular flows;
o Implementation of unique building design and construction codes
that would improve the safety, comfort and the urban image of
buildings in the central area.
IGU Urban Commission Meeting Held in Canterbury-UK, August 14-20,2011
URBAN PLANNING CHALLENGES IN AL-MADINAH ALMUNAWARAH –SAUDI ARABIA
Spatial Analysis of Prophet's Mosque Expansion:
 Plan Intent:
The Plan's intent was to provide the Central Area 14.000 retail shops,
100.000 new rooms, urban open space amounting to 65% of the Central
Area, and occupancy of 3000 people with in the Central area.
 Existing Context of Central Area and its Components :
oProphet's Mosque surrounded by Haram Plaza;
oAl Baqee Cemetery;
oAl Ghamama Mosque;
oAbu Baker AS Sidique Mosque;
oUmar Bin Al Khatab Mosque;
oAli Bin Abi Talib and Othman Mosque and Al Ijab Mosque.
IGU Urban Commission Meeting Held in Canterbury-UK, August 14-20,2011
URBAN PLANNING CHALLENGES IN AL-MADINAH ALMUNAWARAH –SAUDI ARABIA
Spatial Analysis of Prophet's Mosque Expansion:
Prophet's Mosque Capacity:
The existing Prophet's Mosque capacity is estimated to be 300,000
worshippers. The Haram Plaza surrounding the Prophet's Mosque is a
large (250,000m2) pedestrian accessed space capable of accommodating
255,000 worshippers. It is divided into a 168,500m2 prayer space area
and an 81,500 m2 non-prayer area. The total worshipper capacity for the
Prophet's Mosque and the Haram Plaza currently stands at 555,000
worshippers.
Road Networks Around the Prophet's Mosque:
1. Beyond the Haram Plaza connecting to, and extending beyond the
1st Ring Road.
2. Function as additional prayer space at peak religious events.
3. But their prioritizing of motor vehicle traffic, makes them
problematic for the large volumes of pedestrians that passes through
there regularly. Along with inconveniently located ramps to parking
levels underneath the Haram Plaza, these are the issues that pose the
greatest constraints for controlled and functional movement of
worshippers to and from the plaza.
IGU Urban Commission Meeting Held in Canterbury-UK, August 14-20,2011
URBAN PLANNING CHALLENGES IN AL-MADINAH ALMUNAWARAH –SAUDI ARABIA
Spatial Analysis of Prophet's Mosque Expansion:
Constraints:
1) Poorly managed traffic, crowd and vehicular flow (result in
dangerous conflicts between car and pedestrians)
2) A general shortage for worshipper accommodations at peak prayer
times. (due to extensive road and ramp infrastructure presently
distributed around the Prophet's Mosque).
3) The above condition as a result of Car focused strategies of
Almadina Central Area development Plan which call for :
A. Improving vehicular and pedestrian flow.
B. Development of Public Parking Lots beneath the Central Area
in order to resume impediments to movement at ground level.
C. Integration of an underground Public transportation station
beneath the expanded area of the Eastern Plaza of the Prophet's
Mosque. (figure-7)
IGU Urban Commission Meeting Held in Canterbury-UK, August 14-20,2011
URBAN PLANNING CHALLENGES IN AL-MADINAH ALMUNAWARAH –SAUDI ARABIA
Spatial Analysis of Prophet's Mosque Expansion:
Figure-7-1 : 1st Ring Road and Radial Roads in the Central Area
Source : DCM, (2010).
IGU Urban Commission Meeting Held in Canterbury-UK, August 14-20,2011
URBAN PLANNING CHALLENGES IN AL-MADINAH ALMUNAWARAH –SAUDI ARABIA
Spatial Analysis of Prophet's Mosque Expansion:
Figure7.2: Central Area Traffic Volumes (vehicles per hour)-2009.
Source : DCM, (2009) and land use plan strategy of Madinah Municipality.
IGU Urban Commission Meeting Held in Canterbury-UK, August 14-20,2011
URBAN PLANNING CHALLENGES IN AL-MADINAH ALMUNAWARAH –SAUDI ARABIA
Spatial Analysis of Prophet's Mosque Expansion:
D. d. All of the above caused influx of motor vehicles (infrastructure
road and ramps has created barriers and conflicts with the majority
of pedestrian movements).
E. e. The primary function of providing access for pedestrian is being
impacted by the traffic that uses the 1st Ring Road as a through
arterial for travelling cross the city.
(4) Consequently, the pedestrian domain never clearly addressed in
integrated manner in Development Plan.
 Available space normally allocated for parking rather than
pedestrian space.
 Several bottlenecks around the Haram Plaza caused by
underground level parking entrances for vehicles occurring at most
of the entry point to the Plaza. (Figure-8)
IGU Urban Commission Meeting Held in Canterbury-UK, August 14-20,2011
URBAN PLANNING CHALLENGES IN AL-MADINAH ALMUNAWARAH –SAUDI ARABIA
Spatial Analysis of Prophet's Mosque Expansion:
Figure-8a: Existing Pedestrian Space
Figure-8b: Conflict of Pedestrians and
Traffic
Figure-8c: Existing Haram Plaza condition
Figrue-8d: Existing Haram Plaza Condition
IGU Urban Commission Meeting Held in Canterbury-UK, August 14-20,2011
URBAN PLANNING CHALLENGES IN AL-MADINAH ALMUNAWARAH –SAUDI ARABIA
Spatial Analysis of Prophet's Mosque Expansion:
Figure-8e: Existing Constraints bordering the Haram Plaza
IGU Urban Commission Meeting Held in Canterbury-UK, August 14-20,2011
URBAN PLANNING CHALLENGES IN AL-MADINAH ALMUNAWARAH –SAUDI ARABIA
Spatial Analysis of Prophet's Mosque Expansion:
Figure-8f: Plan of Existing Conditions/ Constraints to Pedestrian Flow
Source: DCM, 2010.
IGU Urban Commission Meeting Held in Canterbury-UK, August 14-20,2011
URBAN PLANNING CHALLENGES IN AL-MADINAH ALMUNAWARAH –SAUDI ARABIA
Spatial Analysis of Prophet's Mosque Expansion:
 Fences and gates that surround Prophet's Mosque Plaza stand as a
physical barrier.
o Additional congestion .
o Slow the worshipper's movement before and after prayer.
 Very narrow pinch point passage at the south –eastern edge of the
Prophet's Mosque between the fence and Al Baqee Cemetery
causing congested crowd flow.
 Shortage of space for worshipers during the peak prayers times
(Hajj, Umra season, Ramadan and weekly Friday prayer).
(D) Proposed Options of Extension:
(1) Open Space Strategy:
To release and ease the pressure.
Down grade the 1st Ring Road.
Create intermediate Ring Road further out .
Include expansion of the Haram Plaza, pedestrian boulevards and
urban Plaza.
IGU Urban Commission Meeting Held in Canterbury-UK, August 14-20,2011
URBAN PLANNING CHALLENGES IN AL-MADINAH ALMUNAWARAH –SAUDI ARABIA
Spatial Analysis of Prophet's Mosque Expansion:
(2) The Open Space Strategy will:
 Expand the Haram Plaza into pedestrian boulevards along the
Central Area's major access points;
 Allow worshippers to pray in a number of appropriate open
spaces along the major access points, allowing for the absorption
of excess worshippers during peak seasons;
 Allow visitors to gather in civic open spaces aimed at supporting
the religious and civic functions of the city.
(3) Expansion Alternatives:
(a) Expansion Concept (1) : Al-Ruwaaq and Haram Plaza (Religious
Plaza), (Figure-9)
 Space around the Prophet's Mosque.
 Consider to be a hub for visitors not only for prayer, but also to
rest, socialize and contemplate during non-prayer times.
 Will increase the capacity for prayer without necessary requiring
extensive expansion beyond the existing Plaza.
IGU Urban Commission Meeting Held in Canterbury-UK, August 14-20,2011
URBAN PLANNING CHALLENGES IN AL-MADINAH ALMUNAWARAH –SAUDI ARABIA
Spatial Analysis of Prophet's Mosque Expansion:
(b) Expansion Concept (2): New Manakha Plaza ( Civic Plaza),
(Figure-10)
 To utilize the space south of Imam of the Mosque when it can't
be need during the prayer.
 How to utilize this space?
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
Creation of civic Plaza to the south of Prophet's Mosque .
The space filled with shade and sounds of flowing water.
Grove Palm tree arranged like a grand colonnade, making
reference to the historic Palm Groves of Prophet's Nabawi era.
All of the above offer the visitors the reassuring feeling of
having arrived after long journey.
New Manakha Plaza is historical site for centuries as had been a
primary entry and arrival point for visitors arriving to Madinah
and Prophet's Mosque (arrival square, assembly point for
incoming and deporting Caravans).
New Manakha Plaza is a meeting place for social interaction and
enjoyment.
The simple composition of tree, water and the Mosque will
evoke sentiments of serenity and represent the basic elements
and needs of life.
IGU Urban Commission Meeting Held in Canterbury-UK, August 14-20,2011
URBAN PLANNING CHALLENGES IN AL-MADINAH ALMUNAWARAH –SAUDI ARABIA
Spatial Analysis of Prophet's Mosque Expansion:
Figure-9: Al Ruwaaq Expansion Alternative.
IGU Urban Commission Meeting Held in Canterbury-UK, August 14-20,2011
URBAN PLANNING CHALLENGES IN AL-MADINAH ALMUNAWARAH –SAUDI ARABIA
Spatial Analysis of Prophet's Mosque Expansion:
Figure-10: Al Manakha Expansion Alternative.
Source: DCM, (2010)
IGU Urban Commission Meeting Held in Canterbury-UK, August 14-20,2011
URBAN PLANNING CHALLENGES IN AL-MADINAH ALMUNAWARAH –SAUDI ARABIA
Spatial Analysis of Prophet’s Mosque Expansion:
(E) Transport Challenges in Central Areas:
Traffic conflict on the 1st Ring Road :
Existing conditions:
1. Encircles the Central Area.
2. Its functionality is not successful.
3. Provide Multi conflicting roles for vehicular and pedestrian
access to Haram Plaza via redial roads.
4. Host major pedestrian crossings.
5. Carries significant regional through traffic.
Proposal & Solutions:
1. Provision of municipal sidewalks on both sides of every road
leading to Central Area.
2. Introducing efficient public transport network system, to reduce
vehicle use.
3. Proposing strategic location space for transportation links with
Central Area to avoid bottlenecks situation.
IGU Urban Commission Meeting Held in Canterbury-UK, August 14-20,2011
URBAN PLANNING CHALLENGES IN AL-MADINAH ALMUNAWARAH –SAUDI ARABIA
Spatial Analysis of Prophet's Mosque Expansion:
Conclusion:
This Study;
1)
2)
3)
4)
Presented an overview of existing condition and examined options that
address the need for expanding capacity of the Prophet's Mosque.
Recommended options for future expansion of the Prophet's Mosque
and Haram Plaza that establish the Holy Site physical character, visual
appearance, as well as its integration within its immediate context and
the city as whole.
Attempt to recommend solution that address the growth of
Al-Madinah for years to come. (Figure-11-12-13)
Finally Almadinah Almunwarah badly needs introducing Geometics
techniques, methods and applications in many aspects of its urban life.
It should also seek to be smart city. Should benefit to from
Globalization era in order to be back again to its glorious past of
Prophet Mohamad enlightening era when knowledge, science and
noble teachings spread out from this holy spot.
IGU Urban Commission Meeting Held in Canterbury-UK, August 14-20,2011
URBAN PLANNING CHALLENGES IN AL-MADINAH ALMUNAWARAH –SAUDI ARABIA
Spatial Analysis of Prophet's Mosque Expansion:
Figure-11: Map overlay: Historic Madinah.
Source: DCM, (2010)
IGU Urban Commission Meeting Held in Canterbury-UK, August 14-20,2011
URBAN PLANNING CHALLENGES IN AL-MADINAH ALMUNAWARAH –SAUDI ARABIA
Spatial Analysis of Prophet's Mosque Expansion:
Figure-12: Urban limits and Proposed land use Patterns upto Twenty Years to Come (2030).
Source: MOMRA , 2006
IGU Urban Commission Meeting Held in Canterbury-UK, August 14-20,2011
URBAN PLANNING CHALLENGES IN AL-MADINAH ALMUNAWARAH –SAUDI ARABIA
Spatial Analysis of Prophet's Mosque Expansion:
Figure-13: Almadinah Almunawarah Key Sites at Present.
Source: Google Earth, With Modification (DCM,2010)
IGU Urban Commission Meeting Held in Canterbury-UK, August 14-20,2011
References:
URBAN PLANNING CHALLENGES IN AL-MADINAH ALMUNAWARAH –SAUDI ARABIA
 Ali, Mohamed, (2005), An Integrated Futuristic Urban Planning
Model for Almadinah Almunawarah Based on Early Traditional
Model (Prophecy – Nobowa Era) and Modern GIS Technology,
In: Cities in Global Perspective: Diversity and Transition,
Proceeding of IGU Conference of Commission: Monitoring
Cities of Tomorrow, Rikko University, Tokyo, Japan, August
2005.
 Ali, Mohamad, (2011), Estimation of Probable Exposition of
Almadinah Almunawarah to the Global Climatic Change:
Informational Technology Study for its Valleys System and their
Hazards Critical Points, Centre of Gulf and Arabian Peninsula,
Kuwait University , Kuwait.
 Development Commission of Makka Almukarama, Almadinah
Almunawara and Almashaer Almuqaddsa, (2010),
Comprehensive Plan, (DRAFT).
IGU Urban Commission Meeting Held in Canterbury-UK, August 14-20,2011
References:
URBAN PLANNING CHALLENGES IN AL-MADINAH ALMUNAWARAH –SAUDI ARABIA
 DCM, (2009-2010), Various Reports, (2009-2010).
 MOMRA, (2004) Urban limits of Almadinah Almunawarah,
Development and Renovation of Urban Fabric in Almadinah
Almunawarah, Almadina Almunawarah Municipality.
 MOMRA, (2006), Growth and Development Plan, Almadinah
Almunawarah Municipality.
 MOMRA, (2004), Structure Plan, Almadinah Almunawarah
Municipality.
 MOMRA, (2004), Land Use Plan Strategies, Almadinah
Almunawarah Municipality.
 Many Internet Websites has been Explored and Utilized to
Obtain Scientific Information, Maps, Figures, and Satellite
Images from Google Earth.
IGU Urban Commission Meeting Held in Canterbury-UK, August 14-20,2011