The Effect of Mosque Acoustic Design and the Surrounding Environment on Prayer Health in Riyadh City Post-COVID-19

Abstract

The Mosques in Saudi Arabia have recently witnessed a remarkable development in audio systems. However, residents complain about the high sound levels. This research aims to measure the sound level and study the factors that affect the noise in the interior and outdoor environment, health and management. The research utilizes a sound measuring device to determine inside and outside mosque noise, distribute a questionnaire to prayers at different times during the day, including at peak times. Three case studies in Riyadh. The result shows that the indoor sound level is above 60 ± 7 dB, which is within the limit. The maximum outdoor value exceeded the 68 ± 20 dB limit, and the minimum outdoor value was 58 ± 18 dB post-COVID-19. The research recommends reducing the level of noise The research results will be applied to manage sound levels inside the mosques using smart devices.