Saleh was criticized in 2008 for undertaking such a grand project when the country was suffering from socio-economic problems, wherein 42% of Yemenis lived in poverty and one in five were malnourished, according to United Nations estimates at the time.

It is also mentioned that Hayel Said, a local businessman, was threatened with reprisals and annulment of his business licenses, if he did not pay for the building of the mosque.

[6] At the time, rumours circulated in Sanaa that the Houthis intended to repaint the mosque's dome green.

Of the fifteen wooden doors, ten of them are situated on the eastern and western sides, and five open south towards the Islamic college and ablution areas.

The three-storied building that includes the Quran College also contains libraries, and over two dozen classrooms,[12] enough space to accommodate 600 students.

[14] The mosque has a modern central air conditioning and sound systems, as well as full security arrangements, including bomb-sniffing dogs.

[18] The grounds include sprawling gardens, green courtyards, and parking space for thousands of vehicles, part of an integrated services plan.

The mosque also promotes moderate Islam,[20] to a large number of people, which is considered a positive feature in the light of the influence of Al-Qaeda.