Did you notice the intricate designs above? They mark Bab Malik al-Fahad. This is no ordinary entrance. It is a portal steeped in history and reverence.
Welcome to Bab Malik al-Fahad. It is also known as the Gate of King Fahad. It stands as the main northern entrance to the Prophet’s Mosque. This gate honors King Fahd bin Abdulaziz al-Saud. He ruled Saudi Arabia from 1982 to 2005.
Bab Malik al-Fahad is the largest gate of Masjid an-Nabawi. It is truly a sight to behold. King Fahad Gate comprises three sections. These sections include five smaller gates. Gate number 20 is the right tall single-arched gate. Gate number 21 is the left tall single-arched gate. Gate number 22 is a single arched gate on the eastern flank. Another single arched gate sits on the western flank.
This grand entrance was installed during the second Saudi expansion. Fahad bin Abdulaziz oversaw this expansion of Masjid an-Nabawi. The gate features two towering minarets. These are among the six tallest added during the mosque’s second expansion. Seven doors welcome worshippers. Five domes adorn the structure.
Look closely at the wooden panels. The gold-plated panels shine brilliantly. They are plated with 23-karat gold. Expert craftsmen polished them by hand. The doors are made of teakwood. They were carved by hand in a Jeddah factory. Each panel contains 1600 handcrafted segments. Solid brass fixtures hold them together. Each door panel weighs about 2.5 tons.
Notice the domes above. Bab Malik al-Fahad is unique. It is the only gate with domes over it. Seven domes display high-quality ceramic tiles. These tiles were manufactured in England. Traditional Islamic patterns decorate them. They adorn both the inside and outside.
The minarets flanking Bab Malik al-Fahad reach 104 meters. They were the first completed during the second expansion. Masjid Nabawi has ten minarets in total.
Step inside and observe the interior. Beautiful chandeliers hang in the domes. The wooden enclosures house stairs. These stairs lead to the roof area.
Bab Malik al-Fahad is more than just an entrance. It represents King Fahad’s dedication to expanding and enhancing this sacred space. It was the most spectacular phase in Masjid Nabawi’s recent development.
As you pass through Bab Malik al-Fahad remember its history. Remember the craftsmanship and devotion that went into its creation. It is a gateway to faith and a testament to architectural grandeur.