The Ministry of Finance has instructed Saudi Binladin Group (SBG) to stop construction work on the expansion of the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina, without giving a reason. SBG was asked to finish some of the ongoing work on the site and cease execution of the project thereafter until further notice. These instructions were sent in a formal letter to SBG on 29 December 2015. The letter was also sent to the project consultant, Dar Al-Handasah. The General Presidency for Grand Mosque and Prophet Mosque Affairs had appointed SBG as the main contractor for the USD1.5 billion makeover of the mosque in June 2012, with a completion target of June 2016. (MEED)