Explore the Majesty of Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat Oman

Name: Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
Address: Sultan Qaboos St, Muscat, Oman, Muscat, OM
Telephone: 24 505170
Price range: $$

Nestled along Sultan Qaboos Street in the vibrant city of Muscat, Oman, the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque stands as a breathtaking testament to Islamic architecture and Omani cultural heritage. This monumental mosque opened in 2001 and boasts five soaring minarets along with a vast prayer hall that accommodates up to 20,000 worshippers, making it one of the largest and most impressive religious landmarks in the world.

Architectural wonder and visitor experience

As you approach this grand mosque, prepare to be captivated by its exquisite design featuring intricate carvings, towering domes, and splendid chandeliers that illuminate the interiors with a celestial glow. Visitors often describe the mosque as awe-inspiring, highlighting its serene atmosphere and immaculate cleanliness. The mosque's staff are known for their respectful and helpful guidance, making your visit both educational and comfortable.

Cultural insight is further enriched by the visitor center, which offers fascinating displays about Islam, Omani culture, and the mosque’s history — perfect for travelers eager to deepen their understanding.

Planning your visit

Open to visitors from Saturday to Thursday, the mosque welcomes non-Muslims daily from 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Friday is reserved exclusively for prayers, so public access is closed on that day. Entry is free of charge; however, starting in 2025, a modest entrance fee will be introduced — for the latest details, it is recommended to check official sources prior to your visit.

Dress code is strictly observed to respect the sacredness of the mosque. Women must cover their hair and wear loose, opaque clothing covering arms and legs, while men should wear long trousers and shirts with at least short sleeves. Complimentary robes are often available at the entrance for visitors who need them.

Are guided tours available? Yes, guided tours offer rich insights into the mosque’s architecture and history at a fee of 5 OMR per person.
Is photography allowed inside? Photography is permitted, but visitors are asked to be respectful and avoid flash photography during prayer times.

Visitor sentiments

Travelers consistently praise the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque for its stunning and monumental architecture, highlighting the impressive chandeliers and intricate interior carvings. The peaceful ambiance and cleanliness are frequently mentioned, as is the exceptionally welcoming and knowledgeable staff. The library and Islamic Education Center add cultural depth, making the mosque not only a place of worship but a beacon of learning and hospitality in Muscat.

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque History and Architecture Overview

Nestled in the heart of Muscat, Oman, the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque stands as a majestic symbol of Islamic art, culture, and spiritual devotion. This monumental mosque was commissioned in 1992 by Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al Said, marking an ambitious vision to create a landmark that celebrates both traditional and modern Islamic architectural excellence.

Construction timeline and architectural highlights

The project began in 1992 when Sultan Qaboos directed the construction of this grand mosque, setting in motion a series of significant developments. In 1993, a design competition was held, attracting visionary architects who blended Islamic, Middle Eastern, and distinctly Omani motifs into their proposals. Construction officially commenced in December 1994.

After six years and seven months of meticulous craftsmanship, the mosque was inaugurated on May 4, 2001, coinciding with Sultan Qaboos’s 30th year of reign. The mosque’s architecture is a harmonious fusion of cultural influences, featuring five towering minarets and vast prayer halls capable of accommodating up to 20,000 worshippers.

Cultural significance and visitor experience

The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is not only a place of worship but also a cultural beacon that reflects Oman’s rich heritage and Islamic traditions. Its grand prayer hall is famously adorned with the largest hand-woven carpet in the world, alongside one of the most stunning crystal chandeliers globally, both crafted with extraordinary attention to detail.

Visitors to the mosque are impressed by its architectural grandeur and the serene atmosphere that invites reflection and appreciation of Islamic art. The mosque welcomes tourists daily from 8 am to 11 am, offering guided tours and a visitor center with educational displays about Islam and Omani culture. Respectful dress codes are enforced to preserve the sanctity of the site.

1992: Sultan Qaboos directs the construction of the Grand Mosque.
1993: Design competition held to select the mosque’s architectural plan.
1994: Construction begins in December, marking the start of six-plus years of development.
2001: Inauguration of the mosque on May 4, celebrating Sultan Qaboos’s 30th reign anniversary.