Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
A breathtaking masterpiece of modern Islamic architecture, offering a serene spiritual experience and stunning visual artistry.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid crowds and heat
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
Best Time
Avoid crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking masterpiece of modern Islamic architecture, offering a serene spiritual experience and stunning visual artistry.
"Truly the highlight of Muscat, this mosque is stunning with its ornate architecture and chandeliers."
🧥 Respectful Attire
Women: Cover hair, arms, legs. Men: Long trousers. Rentals available.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Oman's heat is intense; carry water and consider a UV umbrella.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Main Prayer Hall
Interior
Experience the awe-inspiring scale, intricate details, and serene atmosphere of this magnificent space.
Architectural Grandeur
Exterior and Courtyards
Marvel at the stunning Islamic architecture, vast courtyards, and intricate marble work.
Chandeliers and Carpets
Main Prayer Hall
Admire the world's second-largest hand-loomed carpet and the breathtaking Swarovski crystal chandeliers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dress Code is Key
Timing Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque - Muscat, Visitor Hours?
🧥 Respectful Attire
Women: Cover hair, arms, legs. Men: Long trousers. Rentals available.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Oman's heat is intense; carry water and consider a UV umbrella.
Visiting Mosque if not Muslim?
Visiting Grand Mosque in Muscat
⏰ Check Opening Hours
Open Sat-Thu, 8 AM-11 AM. Closed Fridays for prayer.
🚶♀️ Explore Freely
Entry is free! Enjoy exploring the vast courtyards and prayer hall.
Visiting Sultan Qaboos mosque
Tips
from all over the internet
🧥 Respectful Attire
Women: Cover hair, arms, legs. Men: Long trousers. Rentals available.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Oman's heat is intense; carry water and consider a UV umbrella.
⏰ Check Opening Hours
Open Sat-Thu, 8 AM-11 AM. Closed Fridays for prayer.
🚶♀️ Explore Freely
Entry is free! Enjoy exploring the vast courtyards and prayer hall.
🎒 Bag Storage
Large bags can be left with security at the entrance for comfort.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque as a breathtaking and spiritually uplifting experience, highlighting its stunning architecture, immaculate maintenance, and free entry. Many appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity to learn about Islamic culture. Some note the strict dress code and the potential for heat, advising visitors to come prepared.
"Must-visit place if going through Muscat - it is stunning! Entry is free, only in the morning and not on Fridays. If you do the visit with an official guide on spot, you will pay 5 OMR per person, but definitely worth it to understand everything little detail of this majestic Mosque."
Etienne Inglebert
"A beautiful gift from Sultan Qaboos to the people of Oman. This is an iconic and must see please in Muscat. Its ornate and beautiful architecture and chandeliers are amazing. I’m glad they removed the fee for entry and set tours as these took away from the experience and freedom of exploring this great place of worship. Modest dress should be worn, with men in long trousers and women in modest loose fitting clothing and shawl to cover all their hair. You should also check the opening days/times before visiting as the mosque is closed to tourists at times to allow for prayers. Thank you to Oman for keeping this beautiful and spiritual place free and open to all."
Aaron
"Such a beautiful mosque, so peaceful and quiet especially during Eid holidays. The walk up to and around the mosque is very beautiful but as it’s really hot take plenty of water or a UV umbrella to prevent heatstroke. If you don’t have appropriate clothing you have the option to rent some, but be mindful of what you wear to respect the Islamic traditions."
Salma Shaheen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The mosque is easily accessible by taxi from most parts of Muscat. Ride-sharing apps are also a convenient option. If you're driving, there is ample parking available.
While direct public bus routes might be limited, you can often connect to areas near the mosque via Muscat's bus network and then take a short taxi ride. It's advisable to check local bus schedules.
Yes, the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque welcomes visitors of all faiths during its designated visiting hours. It's a place for everyone to appreciate its beauty and serenity.
Arriving right when the mosque opens at 8:00 AM on a weekday is generally the best strategy to experience fewer crowds and enjoy a more peaceful visit.
No, entry to the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is completely free for all visitors, making it an accessible and must-see attraction in Muscat.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Non-Muslim visitors can enter the mosque from Saturday to Thursday, between 8:00 AM and 11:00 AM. The mosque is closed to tourists on Fridays for prayers.
No advance booking is required. Entry to the mosque is free, and visitors can enter during the specified morning hours.
If you arrive outside the designated visiting hours (8 AM - 11 AM, Sat-Thu), you will not be able to enter the mosque as a tourist. It's crucial to plan your visit within these times.
Yes, official guided tours are available for a fee (around 5 OMR per person). These tours offer in-depth information about the mosque's architecture and significance.
Yes, you can leave larger bags and backpacks with the security personnel at the entrance, which makes exploring the mosque much more comfortable.
🎫 🕌 Onsite Experience
Women must cover their hair, arms, and legs completely, with only the face visible. Men should wear long trousers. Loose-fitting clothing is recommended for all.
If you don't have suitable attire, you can rent modest clothing at the entrance for a fee (around 4 OMR for scarves/wraps). It's advisable to bring your own to ensure comfort and respect.
Photography is generally allowed in most areas of the mosque, but it's important to be respectful and avoid photographing people without their permission, especially during prayer times.
A typical visit can last from 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interest in exploring the details, attending a guided tour, and taking photos.
Yes, the main prayer hall is air-conditioned, providing a pleasant and cool respite from the Omani heat, especially during warmer months.
🎫 💧 Practical Tips
Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat or umbrella for sun protection. Comfortable walking shoes are also recommended as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
Yes, restrooms are available within the mosque complex. It's always a good idea to carry your own water bottle, though.
The mosque is a very safe place to visit. Security is present, and the atmosphere is peaceful and respectful. Solo travelers are common.
Take your time to walk through the courtyards, admire the intricate marble carvings, and observe the details in the prayer hall. A guided tour can enhance this experience.
Food and drinks are generally not permitted inside the prayer halls or main areas of the mosque. It's best to consume them outside the sacred spaces.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tips for families: Bring plenty of water and snacks to keep kids comfortable, especially during warmer months. Consider a guided tour if your children are old enough to appreciate the historical and architectural explanations. The sheer scale of the prayer hall and the intricate details can capture their imagination. Remember to keep noise levels down and ensure everyone adheres to the dress code to maintain the mosque's peaceful atmosphere.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Best times for photography: Aim for early morning visits to capture soft light and fewer crowds. The golden hour before closing (if applicable) can also yield beautiful shots. Experiment with wide-angle lenses for the grand exteriors and courtyards, and telephoto lenses to capture the fine details of the carvings and calligraphy. Remember to be respectful of worshippers and avoid intrusive photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvels
Visitors are often struck by the intricate details, from the geometric patterns and floral motifs carved into the marble to the delicate calligraphy adorning the walls. The main prayer hall is particularly renowned for its world's second-largest hand-loomed carpet, a stunning piece of art that took over four years to create. Complementing the carpet are the magnificent Swarovski crystal chandeliers, one of which in the main hall is a colossal spectacle.
Beyond the main prayer hall, the mosque complex includes a library, a conference hall, and administrative buildings, all designed with the same attention to detail and aesthetic harmony. The use of pristine white marble throughout the structure reflects the Omani sun, creating a luminous and serene environment. Experiencing the interplay of light and shadow across the vast courtyards and colonnades is a photographer's dream.
Respectful Visitation
If visitors arrive without appropriate attire, there are options to rent modest clothing at the entrance. However, it's highly recommended to come prepared to ensure comfort and to fully embrace the experience without the added hassle. The rental scarves and wraps are typically around 4 OMR. Being mindful of your clothing is a sign of respect for the sanctity of the mosque.
Beyond dress, visitors are encouraged to maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor. Avoid loud conversations, running, or disruptive behavior. Photography is generally permitted, but always be considerate of worshippers and avoid taking photos of individuals without their consent. The peaceful ambiance of the mosque is a key part of its appeal, and contributing to that serenity is part of a mindful visit.
Social
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