
Al-Basha Mosque
Iconic 'floating' mosque on Jeddah's coast, offering stunning views and a serene spiritual experience within historic Al-Balad.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Al-Basha Mosque
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic 'floating' mosque on Jeddah's coast, offering stunning views and a serene spiritual experience within historic Al-Balad.
"A breathtaking mosque that appears to float on the Red Sea, a must-see in Jeddah's historic Balad."
🎯 Respectful Attire
Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. Women may need a headscarf. :womaninturban:
🅿️ Parking Challenges
Parking is tough during peak hours. Consider walking or using ride-sharing. :car:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The "Floating" Illusion
Coastal location
This mosque appears to float on the Red Sea, creating a stunning visual effect, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Architectural Charm
Exterior and interior
Admire the mosque's unique design, a blend of traditional Islamic architecture with a modern coastal aesthetic.
Historic Balad Setting
Al-Balad district, Jeddah
Experience the mosque within the vibrant context of Jeddah's historic old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Al-Basha Mosque
Navigating Balad and Mosque Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Respectful Attire
Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. Women may need a headscarf. :womaninturban:
🅿️ Parking Challenges
Parking is tough during peak hours. Consider walking or using ride-sharing. :car:
🧼 Cleanliness Note
Bathrooms can be crowded and less clean due to high visitor numbers. :toilet:
📸 Capture the View
The mosque's coastal setting offers stunning photo opportunities, especially at sunset. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Respectful Attire
Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. Women may need a headscarf. :womaninturban:
🅿️ Parking Challenges
Parking is tough during peak hours. Consider walking or using ride-sharing. :car:
🧼 Cleanliness Note
Bathrooms can be crowded and less clean due to high visitor numbers. :toilet:
📸 Capture the View
The mosque's coastal setting offers stunning photo opportunities, especially at sunset. :camerawithflash:
🚶 Explore Balad
Combine your visit with exploring the historic Al-Balad district's shops and eateries. :shopping_bags:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Al-Basha Mosque is praised for its stunning 'floating' appearance and its picturesque location in Jeddah's historic Al-Balad district. Visitors appreciate the unique architecture and the opportunity to explore the vibrant surrounding souks and traditional eateries. However, some find the mosque's restrooms to be less than clean due to high visitor traffic, and parking in the area can be a significant challenge during peak times.
"Nice mosque in Balad. The bathrooms are generally not very clean due to the immense crowd in the area. It’s an old mosque located near old NCB headquarters and within the vicinity of old Balad area. If you’re in Balad for quick shopping and/or food in the old town’s old restaurants, this is most accessible mosque to pray. Parking near the mosque is not easily available during peak hours."
Zn Sy
"A very beautiful place that calms the mind."
MH Biplob
"great and important mosque in albalad jeddah"
Hadi Maulana
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Al-Basha Mosque is located in the historic Al-Balad district of Jeddah. You can reach it by car, taxi, or ride-sharing services. Be aware that parking in Balad can be very difficult, especially during peak hours. Many visitors find it easier to park a bit further away and walk, or to use public transport options if available and convenient. Exploring the surrounding Balad area on foot is highly recommended once you arrive.
While specific bus routes might change, public transport options to the general Al-Balad area exist. However, due to the winding streets and potential for traffic, ride-sharing services or taxis are often more direct and convenient for reaching the mosque's vicinity.
From King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED), the most straightforward way to reach Al-Basha Mosque is by taxi or ride-sharing app. The journey typically takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. Ensure your driver knows you're heading to Al-Basha Mosque or Al-Rahma Mosque in Al-Balad.
Yes, Al-Basha Mosque is situated near the old NCB (National Commercial Bank) headquarters in the historic Al-Balad area. It's a well-known landmark within this vibrant district, making it relatively easy to find once you're in the vicinity.
Walking to Al-Basha Mosque from other parts of Jeddah is generally not feasible due to the distance. However, once you are in the Al-Balad area, walking is the best way to explore the mosque and its surroundings.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Al-Basha Mosque is a place of worship and entry is generally free for visitors. You do not need to purchase a ticket to enter and admire its architecture.
As a functioning mosque, Al-Basha Mosque is open during prayer times. It's advisable to visit outside of the main prayer times for a more relaxed experience, especially if you wish to take photos or explore the surroundings. Early mornings and late afternoons are often good times.
There is no admission fee to enter Al-Basha Mosque. It is a religious site open to the public for prayer and admiration of its design.
Yes, you can visit Al-Basha Mosque during Ramadan. However, be mindful that it will be busier, especially during Iftar and Taraweeh prayers. It's best to check prayer times and plan your visit accordingly to avoid disruption.
The primary restriction is to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. Women should also be prepared to cover their hair. Photography is generally allowed, but it's respectful to avoid taking pictures of people praying.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
For the best photographic opportunities, aim for the early morning or late afternoon. The 'golden hour' light during these times can create a magical glow on the mosque and its surroundings, enhancing its 'floating' appearance.
Restroom facilities are available, but reviews suggest they can be crowded and not always very clean due to the high volume of visitors in the Balad area. It's advisable to use facilities before arriving or be prepared for basic conditions.
Yes, families can visit Al-Basha Mosque. The unique 'floating' aspect can be fascinating for children. However, keep in mind that Balad can be crowded, and supervision is important. The mosque itself is a place for quiet reflection.
Al-Basha Mosque, also known as Al-Rahma Mosque, is an iconic landmark in Jeddah, built in 1985. Its unique design on the coast of the Red Sea gives it the appearance of floating, making it a notable architectural and spiritual site.
Photography inside the prayer hall might be restricted during prayer times or if it disturbs worshippers. It's always best to be discreet and respectful. The exterior and the surrounding views offer ample opportunities for stunning photos.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Absolutely! Al-Basha Mosque is located in the heart of Al-Balad, Jeddah's historic district, which is brimming with traditional Saudi restaurants and street food vendors. You can find everything from local delicacies to popular Saudi dishes right around the mosque.
In Al-Balad, you can savor authentic Hijazi cuisine, including dishes like Mandi, Saleeg, and various grilled meats. There are also numerous cafes offering traditional Arabic coffee and sweets.
Yes, dining in the Al-Balad area is a quintessential Jeddah experience. Many restaurants have been serving locals for generations, offering a taste of history and culture alongside delicious food.
Definitely. Al-Balad is known for its vibrant street food scene and local eateries that offer affordable and delicious meals. Look for smaller, bustling spots frequented by locals for the best value.
While Al-Balad is focused on traditional Saudi and Hijazi food, more modern Jeddah offers a wide range of international cuisines. However, for the authentic Balad experience, sticking to local flavors is highly recommended.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic shots are from the coastline, capturing the mosque's 'floating' effect against the Red Sea. The surrounding historic Balad architecture also provides a beautiful backdrop.
Drone usage is generally restricted in Saudi Arabia, especially in populated areas and near religious sites. It's best to assume drone photography is not permitted to avoid any issues.
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for capturing the mosque's reflection on the water. The calm sea during these times enhances the visual effect.
Many popular angles focus on the mosque appearing to rise directly from the water. Shots that include the historic Balad buildings in the foreground or background also add depth and context.
For the 'floating' effect, a wider lens can help capture the expanse of the sea and the mosque. Consider using a polarizing filter to enhance the sky and water. Adjust aperture for desired depth of field, and be mindful of low light conditions during dawn/dusk.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Plan your visit during less crowded times, like weekday mornings, to make navigating easier. Ensure children are supervised, especially in busy market areas. While the mosque is a place for quiet reflection, the surrounding area offers plenty of visual stimulation. Consider trying local snacks and treats in Balad to make the outing more enjoyable for younger ones.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Photography tips: Experiment with different angles to capture the mosque's unique relationship with the water. A wide-angle lens is ideal for encompassing the sea and sky. Be mindful of prayer times and avoid intrusive photography. The vibrant colors and details of Al-Balad's souks also present excellent photo opportunities.
🕌 Religious Visitors
While the mosque is a spiritual sanctuary, its location in the lively Al-Balad district means you can easily combine prayer with experiencing the local culture. Be aware of prayer times and be respectful of those who are observing their religious duties. The mosque's unique setting adds to its spiritual ambiance.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The "Floating" Mosque: An Architectural Marvel
The design cleverly uses the surrounding water as a natural moat, enhancing its serene and ethereal presence. The mosque's exterior often features clean lines and minimalist aesthetics, allowing the interplay of light and water to be the main focus. This approach to mosque architecture is a fascinating blend of traditional Islamic principles and modern coastal engineering, offering a unique spiritual and visual experience.
Visitors often describe the sight as breathtaking and calming, a testament to the thoughtful design. The best times to witness and photograph this phenomenon are during sunrise and sunset, when the light casts a warm glow on the structure and its reflection shimmers on the water's surface.
Exploring Historic Al-Balad
The district is a bustling hub of activity, filled with souks (markets) selling everything from spices and textiles to perfumes and traditional crafts. You'll also find numerous authentic Saudi restaurants and cafes, many of which have been serving the community for generations. It's the perfect place to immerse yourself in local culture, sample delicious Hijazi cuisine, and find unique souvenirs.
When visiting Al-Basha Mosque, dedicating time to explore Al-Balad is highly recommended. The contrast between the serene mosque and the lively atmosphere of the surrounding souks creates a dynamic and memorable experience. Be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends, and wear comfortable shoes for navigating the historic streets.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit