The President's Office has said that the King Salman Mosque constructed in the Maldives' capital, Male' City, will be opened for Ramadan this year.
The Spokesperson for the President's Office, Mabrook Azeez, said arrangements are being made to open the mosque for prayer this upcoming Ramadan.
A large percentage of the mosque's development was completed during former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayyoom's administration. The current administration has given several tentative dates on which the mosque would be opened, but the mosque continues to remain closed.
Islamic Minister Dr. Ahmed Zahir had previously said the mosque could be opened by Ramadan if the budget required to arrange necessary equipment and resources is obtained. The Finance Ministry has informed the Islamic Ministry that the budget had been allocated for the purpose. The Islamic Ministry has announced employment opportunities at the mosque.
The almost-complete mosque stands on the outskirts of Male' city overlooking the Sinamale' Bridge. Spread over a total area of 41500 square feet, the mosque can accommodate 10,000 people simultaneously. Four elevators have been installed at the mosque for easy access. The ground, first and the second floor of the five-story building, are allocated for praying. While the mosque's grounds can accommodate 6000 worshipers, 4000 people can simultaneously use the first and second floors of the mosque. The second floor is designated for female worshippers and has a separate entrance with special washrooms for women. The third floor of the mosque has an extensive library and an auditorium. The fourth floor has a part of the auditorium and a lobby, while the fifth floor has a multi-purpose hall.
