Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque (Muscat) FAQs In 2024

What is the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque?

The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is the main mosque in the Sultanate of Oman, located in Muscat. It is named after the late Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said, who ruled Oman from 1970 to 2020. The mosque is a stunning example of contemporary Islamic architecture and is one of the largest mosques in the world.

Construction of the mosque began in 1995 and was completed in 2001. The mosque was inaugurated by Sultan Qaboos on May 4, 2001.

Yes, the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque welcomes non-Muslim visitors. It is open to tourists from Saturday to Thursday during specific hours, typically in the morning. Visitors should check the current visiting hours and dress code requirements before visiting.

Visitors to the mosque are expected to dress modestly out of respect for the religious site. Women are required to cover their hair with a scarf and should wear long sleeves and long trousers or skirts. Men should wear long trousers and shirts with sleeves.

The mosque's architectural highlights include its magnificent main prayer hall with a capacity of over 6,500 worshippers, the world's second-largest hand-woven carpet, a grand chandelier that is one of the world's largest and made of Swarovski crystal, and the intricate mosaic patterns and marble wall art that adorn the mosque's interior and exterior.

Photography is generally permitted inside the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque for personal use. However, visitors should be respectful and avoid taking photos of people praying or other intimate moments. Commercial photography may require special permission.

Yes, guided tours are often available, and they can provide in-depth information about the mosque's history, architecture, and religious significance. It is advisable to check the availability of guided tours in advance or upon arrival at the mosque.

No, there is no entry fee for visiting the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. It is open to the public during visiting hours free of charge.

Tourists should expect to experience a serene environment that reflects the beauty and spirituality of Islamic culture. They should be prepared to remove their shoes before entering certain areas of the mosque and to observe silence or speak quietly when inside.

The mosque is located in the Wilayat of Bausher in Muscat and can be reached by car, taxi, or bus. Tourists staying in Muscat can easily find transportation to the mosque from their hotels or local transit services.

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