RIYADH: Historic Al-Rumaila Mosque in the Al-Dhahirah district of Riyadh is one of the oldest religious sites being restored as part of a national project, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The second phase of the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Project for Historic Mosques focuses on renovating and restoring religious and cultural significance, while preserving the ancient architectural style using sustainable, environmentally friendly methods.

The project will renovate the mosque in the Najdi style, expanding its area from 1,185 sq. meters to 1,556 sq. meters, and doubling its capacity from 327 to 657 worshippers.

Although the mosque’s exact construction date is unknown, the design will reflect its original form, showcasing the architectural style of old Riyadh mosques, the SPA reported.

The project will use clay construction techniques and natural materials, primarily based on the Najdi style, which adapts well to the local environment and hot desert climate.

Al-Rumaila Mosque is one of 30 mosques in 13 regions in phase two of the project. These include six in Riyadh, five in Makkah, four in Madinah, three in Asir, and two each in the Eastern Province, Jouf, and Jazan. The Northern Borders, Tabuk, Baha, Najran, Hail, and Qassim each have one mosque in the scheme.

Phase one was completed in 2018, with 30 mosques restored in 10 regions. Saudi companies and heritage restoration experts are leading the development efforts.

The project balances traditional and modern construction standards, ensuring the sustainability of mosque components while preserving heritage.

Saudi companies and engineers specializing in heritage restoration are leading the development efforts, according to the report.

The project’s four strategic objectives include restoring historic mosques for worship, preserving architectural authenticity, highlighting the Kingdom’s cultural heritage, and enhancing the religious and cultural significance of religious sites.

RIYADH: Saudi authorities arrested 25,362 people in one week for breaching residency, work and border security regulations, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.

A total of 18,504 people were arrested for violations of residency laws, while 4,004 were held over illegal border crossing attempts, and a further 2,854 for labor-related issues.

The report showed that among the 1,533 people arrested for trying to enter the Kingdom illegally, 65 percent were Ethiopian, 30 percent Yemeni, and 5 percent were of other nationalities.

A further 62 people were caught trying to cross into neighboring countries, and nine were held for involvement in transporting and harboring violators, the SPA reported.

The Ministry of Interior said that anyone found to be facilitating illegal entry to the Kingdom, including providing transportation and shelter, could face imprisonment for a maximum of 15 years, a fine of up to SR1 million ($260,000), as well as confiscation of vehicles and property.

Suspected violations can be reported on the toll-free number 911 in the Makkah and Riyadh regions, and 999 or 996 in other regions of the Kingdom.