Welcome to Muscat! If there’s one landmark every visitor should start with, it is the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. Completed in 2001 as a gift from the late Sultan Qaboos bin Said to his people, this mosque is not only a place of worship but also one of the most magnificent architectural treasures in the Islamic world. Its grandeur, accessibility, and spiritual atmosphere make it a must-see for tourists and an unforgettable experience for Muslims coming to Oman.
__________________________________________________________________________________________________📍 How to Find the Grand Mosque
Tap the map to open in Google Maps
__________________________________________________________________________________________________Visiting Hours and Entry
The mosque is open to non-Muslim visitors Saturday to Thursday from 8:30 AM to 11:00 AM. Fridays are reserved for prayers. An Entry fee was introduced back in January, 2025 which was 8omr per person but as per latest news it has been removed. Visitors need to reach on-site and check. Modest dress is strictly enforced. Muslim visitors can enter throughout prayer times, with separate areas for men and women.
__________________________________________________________________________________________________Dress Code and Visitor Guidelines
Men should wear long trousers and shirts with sleeves. Women must cover their hair, arms, and legs—abayas and scarves. Photography is allowed, but avoid taking pictures during prayer times or pointing the camera directly at people in prayer.
The world’s second-largest chandelier
Handwoven Persian carpet
Architectural Highlights
The mosque’s main prayer hall houses a 21-ton handwoven Persian carpet and an enormous crystal chandelier. The central dome and five towering minarets symbolize the five pillars of Islam. White marble, Islamic calligraphy, and intricate mosaics make every corner of this mosque an architectural masterpiece.
__________________________________________________________________________________________________Guidance for Muslims
Muslims visiting can join any of the five daily prayers. Ensure purity (wudhu) before entering, and keep voices low to maintain the tranquility of the mosque. Jummah (Friday) prayers attract large congregations-arrive early to secure a spot. Respectful behavior is expected at all times.
Courtyard shining marble
Elegant marble wall engraving
Women prayer hall
Main prayer hall
💡 Travel Tips for Tourists
Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. Allocate 1–2 hours to explore the prayer halls, courtyards, library, and gardens. Taxi and car rental are the most convenient ways to reach the mosque, located about 20 minutes from Muscat International Airport. Pair your visit with a trip to the Royal Opera House or Muttrah Souq for a full Muscat experience.
__________________________________________________________________________________________________🌟 Final Word
The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is more than a landmark .It is the heart of Oman’s spiritual and cultural identity. Whether you are a tourist admiring its architecture or a Muslim seeking peace in prayer, this is the first place and a must visit place in Muscat and a timeless experience you’ll never forget.
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