The integration of architecture, interior design, and environmental comfort is gaining new contours thanks to innovative technological solutions — and the giant umbrellas that automatically open in Saudi Arabia are an inspiring example of this trend.
Located at the historic Prophet’s Mosque in Medina, these giant umbrellas are not only visually striking elements but also practical solutions to alleviate the region’s intense heat, raising the standard for functional design in outdoor environments.
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What are the giant umbrellas in Saudi Arabia?
Developed to provide shade and comfort to the thousands of worshippers who visit the mosque daily, the giant automatic umbrellas cover an area of over 143,000 square meters, making them one of the largest mobile structures in the world. Equipped with advanced technology, they open and close as needed, offering protection from the scorching desert sun.
Each umbrella covers an area of approximately 625 m² and is made from high-tech materials like Teflon (PTFE), known for its resistance to heat, UV rays, and weather conditions. The structure is supported by hydraulic arms that ensure smooth and safe movement, while integrated ventilation and misting systems help reduce the temperature under the shade by up to 8 degrees Celsius.
Impact on outdoor space design
These giant umbrellas exemplify the cutting edge of exterior design: the combination of aesthetics, functionality, and technology. For professionals and interior design enthusiasts, this project is an inspiration for creating outdoor spaces that prioritize thermal comfort, sustainability, and innovation.
Moreover, the ability to integrate automated systems that adjust shade according to sunlight demonstrates how automation can transform outdoor environments, extending their use and usability. Whether in gardens, recreational areas, restaurants, or commercial spaces, similar solutions can be adapted to offer comfort and beauty.
Trends reinforced by the umbrella project in Saudi Arabia
- Use of technological and sustainable materials: such as Teflon PTFE, which is resistant and durable, combining solar protection with structural lightness.
- Automation and responsive design: structures that automatically adapt to the environment and weather conditions.
- Integration of comfort systems: ventilation and misting to reduce heat sensation and enhance user experience.
- Scale and visual impact: grand elements that combine functionality with a strong architectural presence.
How to apply this inspiration to your project
Even though the use of large-scale automatic umbrellas is reserved for exceptional architectural projects, the concept can be adapted to residential and commercial environments. Choosing retractable awnings, pergolas with smart shading, and automated solar protection systems are trends that add value through comfort, practicality, and aesthetics.
Whether you’re creating a cozy veranda, an outdoor gourmet area, or a social space that withstands strong sunlight, the innovation brought by the Saudi Arabian umbrellas is an invitation to rethink how design can protect and beautify at the same time.
This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
