Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
5
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Monday
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Tuesday
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Wednesday
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Thursday
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
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- Deanosaur89Edmonton, Canada8,617 contributionsStunning Architecture and StyleThe mosque is open for tourists Saturday through Thursday ~8-11 am. You need to dress modestly so men need to wear pants and women need to wear long sleeve shirts, pants that cover ankles and a scarf around their hair. We arrived here later than expected but the staff were very welcoming and kind. Tour guides offer their services for 5 OMR per person and there are audio guides that cost 2.5 OMR but the entrance is free to everyone. We went with a tour guide and felt it was short but sweet. The mosque itself is stunning and truly a modern wonder. The materials to build the mosque come from all over the world. We spent a lot of time taking pictures of the different architectural pieces and designs. Before entering the main mosque hall everyone is expected to remove their shoes and go barefoot or with socks. Parking was plentiful and all you need to do is follow the signs during your visit to park. If you take a taxi ask to be dropped off at the information centre. Plan to spend about at least an hour here and longer if you want to check out the library or have coffee and dates. Information books are free and offered in many languages. Coffee and dates are also free but you may need to ask a staff member where to go as the signage is limited.Visited October 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 24 October 2023
- LolaGo1Washington DC, District of Columbia6,632 contributionsHighly recommended to visitI hired an English speaking driver to visit this attraction plus other places. This was our first stop. Due to time constraints, we visited first the area of the mosque reserved for female worshippers before proceeding to the main area. What impressed me are the many beautiful chandeliers hanging from the celing, the colorful tiles and intricate carvings of the walls and ceilings panels. Briefly visited the beautiful gardens as well. Note to female visitors: Be sure you are properly attired, head covering, long sleeve blouses and pants. Shoes are required when going inside the mosque so be sure you have socks on.Visited November 2023Travelled soloWritten 16 November 2023
- Ivar Herlev SCopenhagen, Denmark57 contributionsIslamic monumentalismA lavish mosque extravaganza: when money is not an issue, this is what the Sultan bestows on his subjects. Immaculate and pristine … A showcase of Arabian culture, placing Oman at the forefront - but maybe also a mosque, one can visit anywhere in one of the extremely rich Gulf states. Lacking monumental sights in Muscat, this is definitely a place to visit/photograph.Visited November 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 21 November 2023
- Adam JonesBeijing, China196 contributionsFinest in OmanSultan Qaboos Mosque is by far the finest in Oman, and as far as modern mosques in all of the Middle East and North Africa, it ranks high on my list. The exterior is huge, and the interior of the main hall is amazingly decorated. The mosque is only open from 8-11:30 and you could easily spend the whole morning just at this one mosqueVisited November 2023Travelled soloWritten 21 November 2023
- Christian MCopenhagen, Denmark6,189 contributionsTaj Mahal MomentSultan Qaboos's breathtakingly beautiful mosque makes the entire trip to Muscat worthwhile. Many years ago, we visited the Taj Mahal in India and were profoundly moved by the ethereal beauty of the place. We actually shed a tear on that occasion. The structure also holds much of the refinement experienced when visiting the ancient Iranian mosques. Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque possesses some of the same soulfulness, even though it was completed only in 2001. Must-see!! *) *) And it's entirely free.Visited November 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 21 November 2023
- davidhughtaylorMelbourne, Australia607 contributionsWorth a visit if driving car near airportWorth a visit if driving own rental car from the nearby airport. After seeing the main hall, head south (towards mountains) to the library education centre where volunteers give a free short talk on Islam. Women must cover arms and head so can bring own scarf to save paying to 2.5 OMR to buy one. Mosque only open 8~11 am.Visited December 2023Travelled with familyWritten 9 December 2023
- geo3Calgary, Canada1,893 contributionsMassiveCertainly the most beautiful building in Muscat. It's well worth a stop even if the visit is in the afternoon (as our tour was), when the interior is not open to tourists. The landscaping around the mosque is also impressive, especially given the arid climate of the area.Visited May 2023Travelled soloWritten 25 December 2023
- Jeff KPittsburgh, Pennsylvania2,352 contributionsImpressive and BeautifulI find mosques to be very hit and miss. Most are in the “miss” category as they may look great from the outside but are often pretty dull inside. I found this one to be a major exception as it is gorgeous. It’s probably has the most beautiful interior of any mosque that I have seen. The level of detail and the size of the place are both extraordinary. I was very glad that I visited here. Highly recommended.Visited January 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 13 January 2024
- Yorkshire Lad - The OriginalYork, United Kingdom1,667 contributionsYou just don't get better anywhere in the World.... but read to the end for the best bit of adviceWow! Just wow. The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. In terms of experience, for me it was right up there with the Golden Temple in Amritsar or Borobudur, the 9th-century Mahayana Buddhist temple in Central Java, Indonesia. The size, the scale, the British architecture. The Italian marble, The Austrian crystals in the chandeliers. Beautiful gardens... stunning, simply stunning. The serenity, the peace. But the best bit? Chatting to a volunteer at the end, sipping tea, eating dates and listening to what the Muslim religion is all about. Perhaps in this World if we all listened more and understood our neighbours better we'd all get on and the World would be a better place. I live in hope, but fear the worst.Visited January 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 20 January 2024
- MaximilianHong Kong, China1,814 contributionsAwe-Inspiring Visit to the Grand Mosque in MuscatOur visit to the Grand Mosque in Muscat, Oman, was an absolutely breathtaking experience. The mosque’s stunning architecture and serene ambiance make it a must-visit destination in the city. The intricate details and craftsmanship displayed throughout the mosque are a testament to its beauty and cultural significance. This visit is highly recommended for anyone traveling to Muscat, as it offers a peaceful and profound insight into the architectural and spiritual world of Oman.Visited January 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 25 January 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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5.0
6 218 reviews
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T-SGlobetrotters
Preston, UK3 806 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
There is entry to non Muslims 8am to 11am each day except Fridays. Earlier reviews have already highlighted the need to be very conservatively dressed before entering the mosque.
The entry route takes you first to the ladies hall, then onto the Grand Mosque itself as well as the opportunity to walk around parts of the extensive outlying site including immaculate gardens. Both halls and surrounding concourse can accommodate 20,000 worshippers.
The great hall qualifies as the most amazing building we have ever seen. It houses the second largest carpet ever made at 4,200 square meters and a massive 14m tall Swarovski crystal chandelier which dominates the incredible room. Workmanship is off the highest order using only the best materials and is a wonder to behold. On entry, it takes your breath away in a way few other buildings have done in our travels around the world. Volunteer Guides are available to answer any questions and they are particularly pleased to explain the Islamic approach to religion compared with other western religions in a very non-judgmental way.
There is a huge amount of free parking available on site so driving there is no problem.
An absolute ‘must see’ when visiting Muscat.
The entry route takes you first to the ladies hall, then onto the Grand Mosque itself as well as the opportunity to walk around parts of the extensive outlying site including immaculate gardens. Both halls and surrounding concourse can accommodate 20,000 worshippers.
The great hall qualifies as the most amazing building we have ever seen. It houses the second largest carpet ever made at 4,200 square meters and a massive 14m tall Swarovski crystal chandelier which dominates the incredible room. Workmanship is off the highest order using only the best materials and is a wonder to behold. On entry, it takes your breath away in a way few other buildings have done in our travels around the world. Volunteer Guides are available to answer any questions and they are particularly pleased to explain the Islamic approach to religion compared with other western religions in a very non-judgmental way.
There is a huge amount of free parking available on site so driving there is no problem.
An absolute ‘must see’ when visiting Muscat.
Written 21 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Gemma
119 contributions
Feb 2020 • Couples
Go early !!! We got there at 8 sharp and we got the first 15 mins for us together with another tourist couple only.
The audio guide is worth getting such that you get more than the actual sights. You can rent it by the entrance in one of the corners.
The details of the mosaics in the main prayer room and along the lateral corridors are simply beautiful.
The ( I guess ) volutneers at the end of the visit who offer you to tell you about Islam were super nice and I found the conversation very insightful.
The audio guide is worth getting such that you get more than the actual sights. You can rent it by the entrance in one of the corners.
The details of the mosaics in the main prayer room and along the lateral corridors are simply beautiful.
The ( I guess ) volutneers at the end of the visit who offer you to tell you about Islam were super nice and I found the conversation very insightful.
Written 21 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ana M
Slovenia37 contributions
Feb 2020 • Family
A must to see when in Muscat. You really don’t need 45-50min as agencies advice. 20min are also enough. For women - wear a long sleeve shirt/jacket and a scarf. If you don’t have, no problem, you can rent there for 2.5 OMR. Kids under 10 tears are not allowed to visit the inside of the Mosque.
Written 19 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tour624342
Syracuse, NY11 contributions
Feb 2020
The mosque holds 6500 worshippers plus 750 women so you know it is quite large. Completed in 2001, it is quite modern boasting the 2nd largest Swarovski chrystal chandelier in the world. Smaller chandeliers are hung throughout building. The outside is as beautiful as the inside and built of sandstone. The surrounding gardens are lovely as well. There is an education center onsite. The day we were there an Iman spent time with us answering questions and sharing information about his religion. Non-Muslims are welcomed here.
Written 11 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
801faisalh
Sydney, Australia39 contributions
Nov 2019
i think if u r traveling to Muscat then never miss an opportunity to visit this beautiful Masjid. every single detal of this Masjid is worth watching.especially single piece hand knitted worlds largest carpet on floor of Masjid interior.
Written 22 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
SNottIN
Singapore402 contributions
Dec 2019
Impressive from outside and in. Beautiful architecture and tasteful decor inside. Spacious gardens and outdoor walking spaces provide several photo ops. The massive chandelier, carpet and stained glass in the main prayer hall were grand sights indeed.
Open only in the mornings till 11 (closed on Fridays), and dress code is strict.
Open only in the mornings till 11 (closed on Fridays), and dress code is strict.
Written 4 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sagar25
Kolkata (Calcutta), India80 contributions
Dec 2019 • Family
It’s the main mosque of the Sultanate of Oman, and it’s nothing less than an architectural marvel. It has such amazing elements that you have to visit the place to get mesmerised by its beauty. It has the world’s 2nd largest chandelier weighing 8.5 tonnes, single piece prayer carpet weighing 21 tonnes, the meticulous craftsmanship on the walls and doors made of Burmese teakwood.. one has to visit to experience it. Words cannot be enough. P.S. check the dress code before going there
Written 6 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Moksha Jajal
Rajkot, India26 contributions
Aug 2020
Non-muslims are not generally allowed to enter the mosque. However, since this is the biggest and finest mosque of Oman, sculpted magnificently and named after the then king, Sultan Qaboos Bin Said Al Said, non-muslims are allowed to enter the premises as tourists and taken across the mosque for sight seeing on Friday mornings. However, a proper dresscode needs to be followed in order to enter, though they provide burkha and abaya inside the mosque for the visit, it is always preferred to wear "full sleeved shirts and full pants" and for ladies, the hair needs to be covered throughout the visit, they charge a certain fee for entering the mosque and additionally, if you rent the abaya/burkha, it will cost more. But the magnificent architecture of the mosque and its scenic beauty is worth every single penny and every effort!
Written 8 July 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Meeta Z
Dubai, United Arab Emirates37 contributions
Jan 2020 • Family
Go early.
Its only open from 8 until 11am i think so it can get really busy after 9.30am.
Also worth avoiding the heat by going early before 8.30am, you only need to spend an hour there max.
Be sure to wear appropriate clothing and a head scarf, fitflops are good as you will need to take shoes off in many parts of the mosque.
The grounds are beautifully maintained.
You can get an audio guide but we decided not too as this is a relatively new mosque (built in 80s or 90s) and we got all the history we needed from reading ahead of the trip.
Nice and cool inside with all the marble for my 7year old to sit when tired.
Its only open from 8 until 11am i think so it can get really busy after 9.30am.
Also worth avoiding the heat by going early before 8.30am, you only need to spend an hour there max.
Be sure to wear appropriate clothing and a head scarf, fitflops are good as you will need to take shoes off in many parts of the mosque.
The grounds are beautifully maintained.
You can get an audio guide but we decided not too as this is a relatively new mosque (built in 80s or 90s) and we got all the history we needed from reading ahead of the trip.
Nice and cool inside with all the marble for my 7year old to sit when tired.
Written 4 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
michael naccarato
Saint Louis, MO5 contributions
Jan 2020
Not only are the mosque and grounds beautiful and immaculate, our guide was great. He gave a tour to the four of us in perfect english and, when he thought that one of us was Italian, he proceeded to give us the tour in Italian and English. One of the great religious buildings in the world.
Written 11 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello
I know that google said it is not open in fridays but if i am muslim can ixvisit it in Friday?
Written 1 February 2024
You can visit on a Friday because it is open for Muslim visitors only.
It is closed to non-Muslim visitors.
Written 3 February 2024
We will be visiting during Ramadan. Will this affect our visit to the Mosque and other places in Muscat?
Written 19 February 2023
As far as I know, Mosque remains open for tourist visits between 8 am and 11 am. Official hours for other tourist places may get affected as working hours are only 6 during Ramadaan. Food options will be limited for lunch as most restaurants and cafes remain shut. However, that can be compensated with various dinner options starting from breaking the fast (sunset). It will be a great experience to visit a Gulf country during Ramadaan. I wish you a great holiday in Oman (the Jewel of Arabia)
Written 19 February 2023
About an hour to walk around but getting in could take an hour because it is a hike from parking to the entrance and then it is necessary to walk through the mall to get to the mosque itself.
Written 16 May 2020
I know the mosque is closed in Friday. However, is it possible to 'drive by' or to walk around the gardens?
We only have 1 day to visit as part of a cruise
Thanks
Written 29 January 2020
Drive by is possible. Visiting the gardens no, as they’re inside the paying area.
Even though it’s not comparable with the inside, you’ll certainly also enjoy some of the architecture from outside.
Written 29 January 2020
Есть ли официальная информация, что дети до 10 лет не допускаются непосредственно в мечеть, а лишь на территорию?
Is there official information that children under 10 years old are not allowed directly to the mosque, but only to the territory?
Written 26 January 2020
Добрый день! Не знаю, была без детей, но если мне не изменяет память, то детей я на территории не видела. Вероятно данную информацию надо искать на сайте мечети.
Written 28 January 2020
Is it easy to get from the Cruise ship terminal to the mosque? Our ship offers tours but they are around $130 each.
Written 18 January 2020
I have a guy that can take you around for 7 rials per hour will take you anywhere you want and stay with you if you want his number he took us everywhere and was great
Written 19 January 2020
tour guide
Sur, Oman
1 contribution
I'm local omani tour guide who can help you to see the beauty of Muscat and anywhere around with lowe coast
I have enough experience to guide you in Oman
Muscat city tour
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Desert & wadi bani Khalid
Nizwa & jabal akdhar
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Visit my Instagram salman_s81
Contact anytime WhatsApp
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Written 30 November 2019
Ci andremo con crociera MSC. Volevo sapere se l ingresso è a pagamento e quanto costano i taxi locali o con quale mezzo conviene andarci a partire dal porto di sbarco MSC. Grazie anticipatamente.
Written 27 October 2019
L'ingresso è gratuito, ricordati che l'abbigliamento per le donne deve essere super castigato. Altrimenti devi noleggiare all'ingresso una tunica adatta. Comunque la moschea vale assolutamente la visita. Noi abbiamo contrattato con un tassista una somma di 100 euro per una visita totale di Muscat per 7 ore. Non perderti il Souk vicino al porto. Buon viaggio.
Written 9 November 2019
Hi can pictures be taken inside the mosque?
Written 15 October 2019
Yes, as always respect the culture and the fact you are in religious building
Written 16 October 2019
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