PM Masrour Barzani’s vision blends Kurdish heritage, faith and world-class design
A landmark mosque and cultural complex envisioned by Prime Minister Masrour Barzani is taking shape in Erbil, combining Kurdish heritage, modern architecture and environmental design in one of the region’s most ambitious projects.
First proposed in 2023, the project is being implemented under the Prime Minister’s supervision through the Ministry of Endowment and Religious Affairs. Designed by local firm Graph under chief engineer Goran Rashid Fattah, the complex is intended to honor the legacy of the late Mustafa Barzani while celebrating Kurdistan’s cultural identity.
Spanning more than two million square meters, the development will feature a main prayer hall with capacity for 9,000 worshippers. Inspired by Kurdish nomadic traditions, the central structure will resemble the Rashmall, or Kurdish black tent, while surrounding buildings will reflect traditional tent architecture.
The complex will also include forests and botanical gardens containing more than one million trees and flowers, along with a 48-meter artificial waterfall and a large lake.
In addition to serving as a place of worship, the site will house a library and museum dedicated to Kurdish history and manuscripts, preserving religious and national heritage.
The project aims to achieve several world records, including the largest dome, tallest doors and the world’s largest handmade artificial carpet. Four minarets equipped with elevators will offer panoramic views of Erbil.
Community facilities will include a religious school, conference hall, public dining facilities and a market for traditional Kurdish and religious products.
As construction progresses, the project is expected to become one of the Middle East’s most distinctive religious and cultural landmarks, reflecting the Kurdistan Region’s commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing modern architectural innovation.