The long-awaited opening of what will be the largest mosque in the Maldives draws nearer with the arrival of a Saudi Arabian delegation.

While it was previously revealed that the mosque opening date will be announced following the arrival of the delegation, Spokesperson at the President’s Office Mohamed Mabrook Azeez has confirmed their arrival in the island nation.

Noting that Under Secretary of Ministry of Islamic Affairs Awwad Sabty M Alenezi is leading the delegation, Mabrook said that discussions regarding the opening of the Saudi-funded mosque will commence on Monday.

Built to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the independence of the Maldives, the mosque was funded by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, costing approximately USD 24 million. The constructor is a Turkish contractor, Turmaks Group who also built Treetop Hospital in the capital's suburban district Hulhumalé.

The construction began in 2018, and was last set to open in time for Ramadan 1442, this year. However, the Islamic Ministry revealed in a statement that the required facilities have not been completed, adding that government is working with the Saudi Arabian government to finish the facilities and services of the mosque.

Consisting of seven stories, this mosque will accommodate around 6,000 worshippers. The outward structure comprises of a mezzanine level within a multipurpose hall. The ground floor is designated for ablution, the first and second floors for prayer congregations. The third floor includes four classrooms, five seminar rooms, an Islamic library and an administrative office. The fourth floor comprises of an auditorium for conferences and seminars. The fifth floor is being established as a multi-purpose hall that can be used for religious sermons and prayers, and can accommodate up to 300 people.

Lacking a common dome, the tapered green-clad dome resembles a tent structure, similar to Maldivian vernacular roof structures. It is lined with five minarets that represent the five pillars of Islam.

This mosque represents many aspects of Islamic culture and heritage.

The Saud delegation was initially to arrive prior to Ramadan, but the visit was delayed to after Hajj season due to ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.