The eastern wing of the Third Saudi Expansion of the Noble Prophet’s Mosque constitutes a critical component of the most extensive enlargement in the mosque’s history. This monumental architectural and infrastructural endeavor, initiated under the directive of King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and continued under King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, reflects a seamless blend of traditional Islamic design with advanced engineering technologies. The eastern expansion specifically demonstrates the strategic focus on increasing capacity, accessibility, and environmental adaptability.

It is planned to include a new prayer hall, movable glass domes for natural lighting and ventilation, electric staircases, elevators for accessibility, and shaded courtyards equipped with mechanized umbrellas—collectively designed to enhance worshiper capacity, movement, and environmental comfort.

circa 610 CE

Scope and Structure of the Eastern Wing
The eastern expansion of the Prophet’s Mosque covers a designated surface area of 100,000 square meters and extended area of 36,590 square meters. It is architecturally integrated into the broader framework of the Third Saudi Expansion, which is designed to harmonize with the earlier Second Saudi Expansion in form and spatial coherence. As part of the expansion’s elevation strategy, an additional standalone building has been constructed on the eastern flank of the mosque, covering 82,000 square meters. This building functions as both a spatial extension and a standalone worship area, effectively distributing foot traffic and minimizing congestion during peak pilgrimage seasons.

Architectural Enhancements and Technological Features
The eastern expansion incorporates a network of movable and fixed glass domes, engineered to optimize environmental conditions within the prayer spaces. These domes allow natural light and air to enter the complex, regulated through contemporary architectural systems that maintain interior temperature and air quality. The domes operate as passive cooling systems in coordination with the mosque’s integrated air conditioning network, which is shared across both the old and new expansions.

To facilitate vertical access within the expanded structures, electric staircases have been installed that lead directly to the second floor. This upper level alone is projected to accommodate approximately 180,000 worshipers. In addition, elevators tailored specifically for the elderly and individuals with special needs have been incorporated, underscoring the project’s inclusive design ethos.

Projected Impact and Capacity
With the complete integration of the eastern wing into the mosque’s prayer infrastructure, the expanded Prophet’s Mosque is expected to accommodate an additional 800,000 worshipers during the first operational phase. The eastern courtyard development, coupled with similar enhancements on the western side, is designated for completion during the second and third phases, contributing to the cumulative expansion target of 1.8 million worshipers.

Strategic Significance within the Overall Expansion
The eastern wing functions not only as a spatial addition but as a logistical artery for managing crowds, particularly during Hajj and Ramadan seasons. It provides streamlined access routes from adjoining roads and supports high-density congregation during peak prayer hours. Moreover, the expanded zone is designed to interface with enhanced transportation systems, including vehicular access, pedestrian movement corridors, and emergency response routes, all coordinated with the wider urban planning initiatives of Madinah.

The eastern expansion remains under direct supervision and royal patronage, continuing under the stewardship of King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, who has prioritized the completion and functionality of this expansion as part of a broader effort to modernize and preserve the sanctity of one of Islam’s holiest sites.