Introduction
The Al-Mujadilah Center and Mosque in Doha, located in the heart of Education City, covers an area of 4,600 square meters. Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser actively led the project team as they created an environment that brings worship, education, and social dialogue together at the Al-Mujadilah Mosque. The design team based its approach on field research to understand the needs of Muslim women in capacity building. Religious education that encourages discussion and the creation of a cohesive community at the Women’s Mosque are key focus areas.
Design Philosophy
Islamic principles of sincerity, service, and knowledge form the foundation of the design, which adopts a practical approach to address the various needs of women. Extensive surveys revealed that the design of the Al-Mujadilah Mosque must consider three main areas:
- Capacity Building: Involving training in leadership, public speaking, and mental well-being. These are essential components of the Women’s Mosque vision at the Al-Mujadilah Mosque.
- Religious Education: Focusing on encouraging critical discussions rather than only traditional instruction.
- Community Building: Creating a sense of belonging among women in a diverse city like Doha is central to the Women’s Mosque’s mission.
“It was a challenge to design a mosque dedicated to women, as there wasn’t previously a space that combined worship with educational and cultural activities under one roof.”
— Statement from DS+R
Key Architectural Elements
1. Roof System and Natural Climate Considerations
- Integrated Roof Design:
Our design team crafted the roof to flow continuously. It incorporated 5,500 conical openings that distribute natural light throughout the prayer space. This reduces direct exposure to strong sunlight. - Open Structure:
A large steel span eliminates the need for interior columns. This allows users to view the surrounding landscape from inside the mosque.
2. Prayer Hall and Interior Spaces
- Spatial Organization:
The prayer hall, covering 875 square meters, is oriented at 17 degrees toward the Qibla. The design features an opening in the roof that effectively illuminates the prayer niche. This enhances the worship experience at the Women’s Mosque. - Reinterpreted Traditional Elements:
A large hand-woven carpet, developed from the design of a traditional Turkish prayer rug, preserves a consistent module layout throughout the hall at the Al-Mujadilah Mosque.
3. Reimagining the Minaret
- Dynamic Minaret:
A 39-meter tall minaret, constructed from a metal mesh, is paired with an integrated sound system. This revives the tradition of the call to prayer in a dynamic manner. This approach reinterprets the traditional role without relying solely on recorded calls, making the Women’s Mosque unique.
4. Integration with Nature and Sustainability
- Connection to the Environment:
An olive tree punctures through the roof. The surrounding landscaping is designed to evoke an oasis through sand dunes and green gardens. - Focus on Sustainability:
The project aims to achieve certifications such as LEED Gold and GSAS 4-star. This is through the use of energy-efficient lighting, recycled irrigation systems, and low-flow fixtures. These features reflect the Women’s Mosque’s commitment to sustainability.
Social and Cultural Impact
The project at Al-Mujadilah Mosque is designed to provide a space where women can engage in spiritual, educational, and intellectual activities. Events such as the annual “Jadal” summit offer a platform to discuss the role of Muslim women in public life. These initiatives enhance opportunities for dialogue and community engagement.
“It was necessary to integrate educational programs and community activities under one roof to address the diverse needs of women.”
— Statement from DS+R
Conclusion
The Al-Mujadilah Center and Mosque represents an architectural approach that responds to the current needs of Muslim women. By integrating multiple functions—worship, education, and social dialogue—the project redefines the concept of religious and educational spaces. It offers a balanced response to contemporary requirements through thoughtful design and practical solutions at the Women’s Mosque.
Summary Table
| Aspect | Main Details |
|---|---|
| Location and Area | Doha – 4,600 square meters |
| Design Philosophy | Addressing women’s needs in capacity building, religious education, and community building at the Women’s Mosque |
| Roof System | Flowing roof with 5,500 conical openings to improve light distribution and reduce direct sunlight exposure |
| Prayer Hall | 875 square meters, oriented 17 degrees toward the Qibla, with an illuminated niche at the Al-Mujadilah Mosque |
| Minaret | 39-meter metal mesh structure with an integrated dynamic sound system to revive the call to prayer |
| Integration with Nature | Olive tree puncturing the roof and a landscaped environment evoking an oasis |
| Sustainability | Use of energy-efficient lighting, recycled irrigation systems, and low-flow fixtures; aiming for LEED Gold and GSAS 4-star |
| Social Impact | Provides an educational and spiritual space for women, enhancing dialogue and community engagement at the Women’s Mosque |
