The Saudi government is expected to allocate funds for the renovation of Faisal Mosque in Pakistan’s federal capital, after nearly 35 years of its completion.
Over the last more than three decades there has been no significant repair work carried out at the Grand Mosque built on King Faisal Abdul Aziz’s instructions.
The Saudi envoy Nawaf Saeed Al-Maliki made the pledge during a visit to the mosque on February 13, along with Pakistan’s caretaker Interior Minister Gohar Ijaz, Capital Development Authority (CDA) Chairman Anwarul Haq, and other officials.
The Saudi government, through its embassy, is eager to commence repair work promptly, with a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) likely to be signed among the interior ministry, CDA, and Saudi Arabia soon, sources have revealed.
The mosque remained untouched since its completion in 1988, with its parking lot and toilets deteriorating. Furthermore, improvements are required for its air-conditioning and electrical systems as well.
According to Gohar Ijaz, his decision to engage the Saudi envoy stemmed from observing the mosque’s urgent need for renovation during Friday prayers, emphasizing the importance of enhancing its aesthetics.
“40 years ago, the government of Saudi Arabia gave the gift of Shah Faisal Mosque to Pakistanis. Now the mosque would be renovated to make it more beautiful,” said the minister.
History of Shah Faisal Mosque
In 1966, King Faisal Abdul Aziz’s visit to Islamabad prompted an international design competition for the mosque, ultimately won by Turkish architect Vedat Dalokay.
Construction began in 1976, with the mosque’s completion in 1988. Now, after more than three decades, the mosque, a destination for worshippers and tourists alike, requires renovation.
Initial construction of the mosque was financed by the Saudi government, with an estimated $45 million allocated to the project, including over $28 million from Saudi Arabia.
Responsibility for mosque affairs lies with the CDA, while the Islamic International University Islamabad, another Saudi-sponsored project, oversees management and relevant matters.
Although the CDA has undertaken minor repair works, officials acknowledge that funding from both the agency and the federal government has been insufficient for proper maintenance.
The renewed interest from Saudi Arabia in supporting mosque renovations is welcomed by CDA officials, acknowledging it as a significant gesture.
Grand mosque construction at Islamic University
In addition to the mosque refurbishment, the Saudi government plans to construct a grand mosque at the Islamic International University Islamabad at a cost of $32 million, serving as a research hub. This plan was disclosed by IIUI President Dr. Hathal Homoud Alotaibi in a letter to Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa in November of last year.