Historically, the architecture of the mosque is established and reflected by the spiritual and ethnic genius of society and represented clearly by the strong ties between the mosque and its community. However, this situation has changed since early 1950’s and mid 1970’s the relationships between the mosque and the surrounding city fabric due to the advance of modern planning with its materialistic trends. In the continuity and evolution of the mosque design, the intention behind the philosophy of the mosque design should aspire the continuation to the historical precedent and ultimately reflects the norms and principles of culture.

It is with this intention that the design concept of Al Shaikh Mohammad Bin Ibrahim mosque is to develop and establish a continuity as a bases for the evolution of Najid mosque design. Also known as Dakhna Grand Mosque, the mosque was first built in 1773 and was then renovated and rehabilitated in 1942, 1962 and 1983. In January 2001, Al-Sheikh Mohammad Bin Ibrahim Mosque was expanded and rebuilt and it was  inaugurated in early 2006.

Due to the location of this mosque within the old part of city of Riyadh, It has been paramount in the environmental design of this mosque to consider renewing the relationship between the mosque and the surrounding urban fabric. This relationship will enable the mosque as spiritual entity to function daily to assimilate the requirements of the modern life of the city in general. The feature of this environmental relationships comes in a number of ways; first, the gradual and incremental progression of spaces between the mosque and public surroundings both horizontally and vertically. Secondly, the respect and the maintaining of the visual connection between Qasr Al Hokm and the Law Courts Complex. Thirdly, blending the mosque building with the surrounding areas and streets into a manageable and approaching urban fabric especially much consideration was given to the pedestrian walkways to old market Zal Souk. Fourthly, the spatial connections between open spaces and the physical form of the mosque represented in public square located at the junction of two main streets and public pathways and patios within the mosque building complex. Much consideration was given into using environmental factors to create a sustainable building. The research into historical precedents in terms of using natural energy has been applied in a form of Wind Catchers. They will help to generate and cool natural air movement in the prayer Hall. The design has encourage indirect sun light through the use of skylights. Also the design incorporated ways of minimise the impact of direct solar radiation by the way openings were sized and oriented, screened or shaded.