KEY POINTS
- Faisal Mosque was constructed between 1976 and 1988 with a $28 million grant from Saudi Arabia
- Located at the foothills of Margalla Hills, the mosque spans 130,000 square meters and can accommodate up to 300,000 worshippers
- Beyond its religious role, the mosque remains a major cultural and architectural landmark, symbolizing the deep Pakistan-Saudi Arabia friendship
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s iconic Faisal Mosque, a striking symbol of modern Islamic architecture and one of South Asia’s largest places of worship, is set for its first major renovation in nearly four decades with financial and technical support from Saudi Arabia.
Towering with grace against the backdrop of the Margalla Hills, Faisal Mosque has long stood as a symbol of unity, faith, and architectural brilliance.
Now, more than 36 years after its completion, this landmark is preparing for a new chapter – its first major renovation, thanks to the support of the Saudi government.
The mosque welcomes thousands of worshippers and tourists daily since its construction ended in 1988. Gift from the past
The story of Faisal Mosque began in 1966, when King Faisal bin Abdul Aziz of Saudi Arabia visited Pakistan’s newly declared capital, Islamabad.
Inspired by its potential and eager to gift the young capital a grand place of worship, King Faisal initiated the project.
An international design competition followed, with the winning entry submitted by Turkish architect Vedat Dalokay.
Blending Islamic principles with bold modernity, Dalokay’s design was revolutionary—no traditional domes, but instead, sharp, tent-like peaks rising into the sky.
In 1976, the foundation stone was laid, and after years of dedicated work, the mosque was completed in 1988, becoming not just a place of prayer but a national monument and a symbol of Pakistan’s close ties with Saudi Arabia.
New chapter begins
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has once again stepped forward to renovate the iconic Faisal Mosque. According to officials from the Capital Development Authority (CDA), the Saudi government has shown strong interest in helping with the mosque’s renovation and repair, breathing new life into the historic structure.
A memorandum of understanding (MoU) is expected to be signed soon between the Saudi government, Pakistan’s Ministry of Interior, and the CDA to formalise the plan.
Last month, CDA Chairman Mohammad Ali Randhawa met with Saudi Ambassador Nawaf bin Said Al-Malki to discuss the proposal.
The meeting was described as warm and constructive, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to deeper cooperation—not only on Faisal Mosque, but also in areas such as hospitality, urban development, and cultural exchange.
Symbol of shared faith
“Pakistan and Saudi Arabia share a special bond built on faith, respect, and enduring friendship,” Randhawa said during the meeting. “The Faisal Mosque is a living symbol of that connection.”
The Saudi ambassador echoed the sentiment, praising CDA’s efforts in making Islamabad one of the most beautiful capitals in the world.
Ambassador Al-Malki highlighted the city’s growing appeal to Saudi investors, particularly in the hotel and tourism sectors.
The Saudi ambassador also noted CDA’s achievements in urban landscaping and civic development, calling the city’s botanical work a model for other capitals in the region.
More than just a mosque
Faisal Mosque is more than a place of worship; it’s a beacon for visitors, a place where architecture meets serenity, and a reminder of the historical friendship between the two nations.
Its renovation is not just about restoring walls and tiles; it’s about reviving a legacy that has inspired millions.
As the city prepares to celebrate Saudi Arabia’s National Day on September 23, both countries are gearing up to mark the occasion with joint events and public displays of friendship.
Randhawa assured full support from CDA for the celebrations, promising a smooth and collaborative effort with all concerned departments.
Brief history & key details
Faisal Mosque is located in Sector E-8, at the northern end of Faisal Avenue, nestled against the stunning Margalla Hills in Islamabad, Pakistan’s capital.
The idea for a national mosque was proposed during King Faisal bin Abdul Aziz’s visit in 1966. After an international design competition in 1969, Turkish architect Vedat Dalokay was chosen for his unique, tent-inspired design.
Construction began in 1976 and was funded by a $28 million grant from Saudi Arabia. The mosque was completed in 1986, and the first prayer was held in 1988.
Covering an area of 130,000 square meters (33 acres), Faisal Mosque was once the largest mosque in the world and remains the largest in South Asia and sixth-largest globally.
Its striking design abandons the traditional dome for a massive eight-sided, tent-like hall, surrounded by four 90-meter (300 ft) high minarets—the tallest in South Asia.
The mosque can accommodate up to 300,000 worshippers—around 74,000 in the main prayer hall and courtyards, and another 200,000+ in the surrounding grounds.
Apart from serving as a place of worship, Faisal Mosque includes a library, a lecture hall, a museum, and a café. It was once home to the International Islamic University.
Decorated with calligraphy by Sadequain and tiles by Turkish artist Mengu Ertel, it is not only a national symbol but also a top tourist attraction and a masterpiece of modern Islamic architecture.
