Saudi Authority Introduces Permanent I’tikaaf Facilities in Madinah
By Abdulrazaq Auwal
The Saudi authority responsible for the Two Holy Mosques has introduced permanent I’tikaaf facilities at Masjid an-Nabawi in Madinah, replacing temporary tents previously installed for worshippers observing the spiritual retreat.
The General Authority for the Care of the Two Holy Mosques has launched the transition to fixed facilities designed to simplify preparations, reduce logistical demands and improve the worship experience at the Prophet’s Mosque.
Under the previous arrangement, workers had to install temporary tents before each I’tikaaf season and dismantle them afterward, a process that required considerable time, labour and coordination.
The new facilities eliminate the need for repeated installation and dismantling, allowing mosque management to prepare designated areas more efficiently for worshippers.
The permanent setup is also expected to provide a more consistent environment for mutakifoon, Muslims who remain in a mosque for worship and devotion while supporting improved management of worship spaces and crowd movement.
Saudi Authority Introduces Permanent I’tikaaf Facilities in Madinah
The development marks a shift in how I’tikaaf facilities are prepared at one of Islam’s holiest sites, which receives large numbers of worshippers, particularly during Ramadan.
By replacing temporary structures with fixed facilities, the new arrangement is intended to reduce recurring operational demands and make preparations for subsequent I’tikaaf seasons more straightforward.
I’tikaaf is an Islamic spiritual practice in which Muslims stay in a mosque for prayer, Qur’anic recitation, remembrance of Allah and other acts of worship.
Many Muslims observe the practice during the last ten days of Ramadan, following the tradition of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
The introduction of permanent facilities forms part of efforts to improve the organisation of services and the worship environment at Masjid an-Nabawi, which welcomes millions of worshippers and visitors throughout the year.
