Sabah State Mosque
A stunning example of modern Islamic architecture, the Sabah State Mosque offers a serene atmosphere and picturesque 'floating' views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light
Sabah State Mosque
Best Time
Golden hour light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning example of modern Islamic architecture, the Sabah State Mosque offers a serene atmosphere and picturesque 'floating' views.
"Great Islamic architecture with modern touch, offering a serene experience."
Modest Attire Required
Cover shoulders and knees. Women need headscarves. Respectful dress is key.
Check Prayer Times
Avoid visiting during prayer times to explore peacefully.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Stunning Islamic Architecture
Admire the modern Islamic design with a touch of contemporary flair. A truly impressive sight.
Floating Mosque Views
Known as the Likas Floating Mosque, it offers picturesque reflections on the water, especially during sunset.
Spacious Prayer Halls
Experience the serene atmosphere of the large prayer halls, accommodating up to 5,000 visitors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dress Code & Respect
Best Visiting Hours
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Modest Attire Required
Cover shoulders and knees. Women need headscarves. Respectful dress is key.
Check Prayer Times
Avoid visiting during prayer times to explore peacefully.
Recommend me activities in Kota Kinabalu for roughly 8 hours
Photography Etiquette
Be mindful of worshippers and avoid intrusive photography.
Clean Facilities
Restrooms and wudu areas are well-maintained and clean.
What to do in KK?
Tips
from all over the internet
Modest Attire Required
Cover shoulders and knees. Women need headscarves. Respectful dress is key.
Check Prayer Times
Avoid visiting during prayer times to explore peacefully.
Photography Etiquette
Be mindful of worshippers and avoid intrusive photography.
Clean Facilities
Restrooms and wudu areas are well-maintained and clean.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Sabah State Mosque for its beautiful, modern Islamic architecture and the picturesque 'floating' effect. The clean facilities and serene atmosphere are also highlighted. However, some note that it might not be a top-tier 'must-see' for those with very limited time, and traffic leaving the area can be challenging.
"Very beautiful mosque, which makes an impression. In the vicinity of this mosque you can come across a poor district, so this is a trip for someone who is not afraid of that. However, everywhere is very safe, so there is nothing to worry about. If someone has some free time in Kota Kinabalu, you can visit this mosque, but it is not a place from the category of "must have""
Robert Obłój
"Great Islamic architecture with modern touch. The facility for visitor to take rest, refresh with shower."
adnan ariffin
"Came here for Maghrib Prayer. Women area was at upstairs, same goes to Man area ( if im not mistaken ) Also got area for OKU/ Senior Citizen at downstairs. Toilet and Wudu area was very clean. Spacious parking area ."
Farhanah Sharom
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Sabah State Mosque is located near the city center. You can take a taxi or ride-sharing service, which is a quick and convenient option. Some visitors mention traffic can be a bit rough when leaving.
Yes, the mosque is a big mosque located near Kota Kinabalu International Airport. It's a good option if you have a layover and want to see a significant landmark.
While it's relatively close, walking might be a bit far depending on your starting point in the city center. Taxis or ride-sharing are generally recommended for comfort and speed.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, there is no entrance fee to visit the Sabah State Mosque. However, donations are always welcome to help with its upkeep.
The mosque is accessible outside of prayer times. It's best to check local prayer schedules to ensure you visit when it's open for visitors and not during congregational prayers.
No, advance booking is not required for general visits. You can typically walk in, provided you adhere to the dress code and visiting hours.
Tourists are usually not permitted inside during the five daily prayer times to allow worshippers to perform their prayers undisturbed.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors must dress modestly. Men should wear long pants and shirts covering their shoulders. Women must wear loose-fitting clothing that covers their arms and legs, and a headscarf is required.
Photography is generally allowed in designated areas, but it's crucial to be respectful of worshippers and avoid taking photos during prayer times or in sensitive areas.
Yes, the mosque provides clean restrooms and wudu (ablution) areas for visitors. There are also designated prayer areas for men and women, with special provisions for the elderly and disabled.
The mosque has areas designated for OKU (people with disabilities) and senior citizens, indicating a level of accessibility.
The mosque is often referred to as the Likas Floating Mosque because its design creates the illusion of floating on water, especially when viewed from certain angles or during high tide.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior, especially with the water reflections, is very photogenic. The main dome and minarets also offer great photographic opportunities.
Late afternoons during the golden hour offer beautiful lighting. Evenings are also great as the mosque is illuminated, creating a stunning visual.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally advisable to avoid drone photography at religious sites unless you have explicit permission, to respect the sanctity of the place and local regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the mosque itself is a place of worship, the visual impact of its architecture can be engaging for older children. It's a good opportunity to teach them about different cultures and religious sites. Just be mindful of prayer times and maintain a quiet demeanor inside.
📸 Photographers
Remember to be respectful of worshippers and avoid intrusive photography, especially during prayer times. Focus on the architectural details, the grand scale, and the interplay of light and shadow. The exterior offers the most flexibility for creative shots.
✈️ Day-Trippers & Layover Visitors
Allocate at least 1-2 hours for your visit, considering travel time. Ensure you adhere to the dress code and be mindful of prayer times. It's a great way to break up a long travel day and see a beautiful piece of local architecture.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvel
Visitors often remark on the mosque's impressive structure and the 'modern touch' it possesses. The building's clean lines and grand scale contribute to its awe-inspiring presence. While some parts may be under construction, the overall impression is one of grandeur and thoughtful design.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the mosque serves as a vital spiritual center. Its design prioritizes both functionality for prayer and a welcoming environment for visitors, reflecting a harmonious balance between religious devotion and community engagement.
The 'Floating' Illusion
This 'floating' characteristic enhances the mosque's picturesque quality, making it a popular backdrop for photos. The interplay of light on the water and the mosque's structure creates a serene and almost ethereal ambiance, particularly during sunrise or sunset. It's a feature that many visitors find captivating and memorable.
While it doesn't literally float, the strategic placement and architectural elements that interact with the water body contribute to its unique charm. This aspect is frequently highlighted in social media content, showcasing the mosque's beauty from various angles and times of day.
Visitor Experience & Etiquette
Crucially, visitors must adhere to a strict dress code. Modesty is paramount: men should wear long pants and shirts covering their shoulders, while women need to wear loose clothing covering their arms and legs, along with a headscarf.
While the mosque is a beautiful place to visit, some reviews mention that it might not be a 'must-have' destination for everyone, especially if time is limited. However, for those interested in Islamic architecture or seeking a moment of tranquility, it offers a unique and enriching experience.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit