Printing plant and exhibition on the Quran, its translations and printing.
The King Fahd Glorious Quran Printing Complex is a large printing plant and exhibition on Tabuk Road in north Madinah, in Saudi Arabia's Al Madinah region. It was established under King Fahd bin Abdulaziz and opened in 1984 (1405 AH) to print and distribute copies of the Quran, its recitations and its translations to Muslims worldwide. The complex is run by the Saudi ministry responsible for Islamic affairs and is among the largest facilities of its kind, producing tens of millions of copies over its history, distributed free to pilgrims, institutions and communities in many countries.
The site combines a working production campus with a visitor exhibition. The printing halls house presses, binding lines and quality-control departments, and the complex also includes a research and translation centre, a recording studio for recitations, and a facility for audio and Braille editions. The exhibition area explains the history of the Quran's compilation and printing, the development of the Uthmani script, and the translation of the Quran into dozens of languages. Displays typically include historic copies, calligraphy, printing tools and examples of translated editions.
The architecture is modern, with Islamic geometric motifs, large halls and landscaped grounds, and the whole complex is built on a scale suited to industrial printing. The curatorial approach is educational and thematic, covering the preservation of the text, its transmission and the modern technology used to print it. Because it is a modern institution, there is no restoration history, and the facility is maintained as an active production centre.
Visits are typically arranged as morning tours, and entry is understood to be free, though visiting conditions and times should be verified in advance since access to production areas may be restricted. A tour takes about an hour and often includes a guide who explains the process. Visitors are asked to dress modestly and follow staff instructions. The complex is a convenient stop for pilgrims and can be combined with a trip to Mount Uhud, which lies in the same northern part of Madinah.
| Admission | Free (estimate) |
|---|---|
| Hours | Morning visitor tours (verify) |
| Address | Tabuk Road, Madinah |
Location
Tabuk Road, Madinah
24.5160, 39.5414 View on map
Highlights
- One of the world's largest facilities for printing the Quran
- Exhibition on the Quran's compilation, script and translations
- Production halls, recitation recording and editions in many languages
- Typically free morning tours, subject to confirmation
Tips for visiting
- Confirm visiting days and the morning tour times before going.
- Dress modestly and follow staff instructions throughout the tour.
- Arrive at the start of the tour slot, as groups move through together.
- Combine with Mount Uhud, which is nearby in north Madinah.
- Photography may be restricted in production areas, so ask first.
When to visit
Morning, when visitor tours are scheduled; arrival at the start of the tour period avoids waiting.
Accessibility
The modern complex has wide halls, lifts and ramps, and is expected to be accessible to wheelchair users, but visitors should confirm arrangements before the visit.
Frequently asked questions
Is entry free?
Entry is understood to be free, but this should be verified before visiting.
How long does a tour take?
About one hour, depending on the group and the areas open.
Is the complex English-language friendly?
Guides and exhibits often cover several languages, including English, but confirm in advance.
Can children visit?
Families visit, and the tour is suitable for older children interested in books and printing.