Impermissibility of exchanging the house assigned as Waqf for another in another place

Q: We have a waqf (endowment) building in Makkah composed of three floors and a shop. The total revenue is 4,300 riyals. The money goes to the widows, minors and heirs of Mr. Muhammad Ramzy (may Allah be merciful to him). We wish to exchange it for another building in (Part No. 16; Page No. 158) Jeddah, as the revenue will be doubled there. Please guide us in this matter.

A: Makkah Al-Mukarramah is a blessed city, and it is the secure city of Allah. All other places are less in status. The buildings in Makkah have a better chance of being sold or rented out compared to those in Jeddah. Makkah enjoys a flourishing real estate market during the Hajj and `Umrah seasons as compared to Jeddah. Even if it is stagnant during some seasons or has some stagnant buildings, this will be temporary and will soon end. Consequently, it is not permissible for you to sell the building and buy another one with its price in any place other than Makkah. May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.