Chicago Sunday, August 24th, 2025
MAKKAH – The architectural world and the Muslim Ummah mourn the loss of Engineer Muhammad Kamal Ismael, the brilliant Egyptian mastermind behind the monumental expansions of both Al-Masjid al-Haram in Makkah and Al-Masjid an-Nabawi in Madinah. He passed away in 2008, leaving behind a legacy etched in stone and faith.
A prodigy who earned his PhD from the University of London at just 23, Ismael was a pivotal figure in the Saudi government’s ambitious mid-20th century project to accommodate the rapidly growing number of pilgrims. His most renowned contribution was his ingenious design for the iconic multi-level expansion of the Mataf (the circumambulation area around the Kaaba) in Al-Haram. This innovative solution, featuring pedestrian tunnels and escalators, revolutionized pilgrim flow.
Simultaneously, he led the design team for the massive expansion of Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, seamlessly blending modern architectural needs with classical Ottoman design. Engineer Ismael’s work ensured that these sacred spaces could welcome millions while preserving their spiritual integrity and historical essence, a testament to his unparalleled skill and devotion.
