MY TRAVEL INFO: THE RED SEA & MASJID AR RAHMAH, JEDDAH

 

These images capture the serene atmosphere of Masjid Ar-Rahmah (also known as the Floating Mosque) in Jeddah back in 2012.

The mosque has a unique place in the hearts of many travelers and pilgrims. Here is some interesting context about the site you visited:

The "Floating" Landmark

• The Illusion: Built in 1985, the mosque is famous for being constructed on pillars rooted in the Red Sea. During high tide, the water surrounds the base, making it appear as if the entire structure is floating on the waves.
• A First of its Kind: It is considered the first mosque in the world to be built over the sea's surface.
• Name History: While commonly called Masjid Ar-Rahmah today, it was originally known as the Fatima Al-Zahra Mosque.

Architectural Highlights

• The Domes: The structure features one large central dome surrounded by 52 smaller outer domes.
• Stained Glass: One of its most beautiful features is the ring of stained glass at the base of the main dome, which allows sunlight to filter through, reflecting the colors of the Red Sea inside the prayer hall.
• Material Science: To survive the harsh, salty environment of the Red Sea, the mosque was built using specially isolated iron and resistant cement to prevent erosion and algae growth.

A Favorite Spot for Pilgrims

The photos you shared, especially those with the visitors by the rocky shore, reflect why this is a "must-see" stop. Since Jeddah is the gateway for Hajj and Umrah, many pilgrims visit here to enjoy the cooling sea breeze and the spiritual tranquility of the coastline before or after their journey to Makkah.

THE RED SEA

The Red Sea is much more than just a backdrop to the Floating Mosque; it is one of the most unique and historically significant bodies of water in the world.

Here is a look at what makes the Red Sea so special:

1. A Natural Wonder: "The Super Corals"

The Red Sea is home to some of the most resilient coral reefs on the planet.

• Heat Resistance: While many of the world's reefs are suffering from "bleaching" due to rising ocean temperatures, the corals in the northern Red Sea have shown a remarkable ability to survive heat. Scientists call them "Super Corals" and are studying them to see if they can help save other reefs globally.
• Biodiversity: It contains over 1,200 species of fish and 300 species of coral. Remarkably, about 10% to 15% of these species are "endemic," meaning they are found nowhere else on Earth.

2. Why is it called "Red"?

There are a few popular theories about the name:

• Algae Blooms: Seasonal blooms of a red-colored algae (Trichodesmium erythraeum) can sometimes turn the blue water a reddish-brown hue.
• The Mountains: The red-tinged mineral-rich mountains along the coast (like those in Egypt and Saudi Arabia) reflect onto the water at sunset.
• Ancient Directions: In some ancient languages, colors were used to represent directions. "Red" may have represented "South," just as the "Black Sea" represented "North."

3. Physical Extremes

• Extreme Saltiness: It is one of the saltiest bodies of water in the world. Because it is surrounded by deserts with almost no rainfall or incoming rivers, the water evaporates quickly, leaving behind a high concentration of salt.
• Exceptional Clarity: Because no rivers flow into it, there is very little silt or sediment. This is why the water is famous for its "crystal clear" visibility, making it a top destination for divers.
• A Growing Sea: The Red Sea is actually a "young" ocean. It was formed when the Arabian and African tectonic plates began to pull apart about 25 million years ago. These plates are still moving, meaning the Red Sea is slowly getting wider every year.

4. Historical & Spiritual Importance

• The Gateway to Makkah: For centuries, the Red Sea was the primary route for pilgrims from Africa, Europe, and Asia to reach the Holy Cities. Jeddah’s identity as the "Bride of the Red Sea" comes from its role as the historic port for these travelers.
• Trade Route: Since the opening of the Suez Canal in 1869, it has been one of the world's most vital shipping lanes, connecting the East to the West.

Hj Zulheimy Maamor

Lembah Keramat, K.L

29/12/2025: 4.56 p.m