First mosque in Islamic history welcomes over 19 million worshipers amid significant expansion
More than 19 million Muslims have performed prayers this year at Quba Mosque in Medina, Saudi Arabia, according to official data.
Built in the 7th century by Prophet Mohammed (PBUH), Quba Mosque holds the distinction of being the first mosque in Islamic history, established during the Prophet’s migration from Mecca to Medina, known as the Hijra.
The mosque is undergoing its largest expansion since its founding, part of a project initiated in 2022 under the name of King Salman bin Abdulaziz. The expansion will increase the mosque’s capacity to 66,000 worshipers and extend its area to 50,000 square meters — ten times its original size, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).
Enhancements include well-maintained courtyards, 8,000 square meters of new carpeting, and improved Zamzam water storage with a capacity of 98,000 liters. Around-the-clock transportation services also facilitate access for worshipers.
Quba Mosque is a significant spiritual destination for pilgrims visiting Medina, often after performing Umrah at the Grand Mosque in Mecca. In Medina, pilgrims also pray at the Prophet’s Mosque, Islam’s second holiest site, and visit other religious landmarks.
The ongoing development echoes the Saudi government’s commitment to enhancing religious sites and services for millions of Muslim pilgrims visiting the Kingdom annually.
