Grand Mosque of Sultan Qaboos - Muscat
The Grande Mesquita do Sultão Qaboos, also known as the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, is a magnificent building located in Muscat, Oman. This grand mosque is a mix of Omani, Islamic, and modern architecture and can receive up to 20,000 worshippers, including 6,500 in the main prayer room. It is one of the two main buildings to visit in Muscat, along with the Royal Opera House Muscat.
The mosque was commissioned by Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said in 1992, and the construction began in 1995. The building contract was awarded to Carillion Alawi LLC, and the mosque was completed in 2001. The mosque's architectural design is a blend of Islamic, Middle Eastern, and Omani styles, and it features four minarets and a central dome. The mosque's interior is equally impressive, with a beautiful chandelier and a handwoven carpet that covers the entire prayer hall.
Key Takeaways
The Grande Mesquita do Sultão Qaboos is a magnificent building located in Muscat, Oman, and is one of the two main buildings to visit in the city.
The mosque was commissioned by Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said in 1992 and was completed in 2001.
The mosque's architectural design is a blend of Islamic, Middle Eastern, and Omani styles, and it features four minarets and a central dome.
Historical Background
The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, located in Muscat, Oman, is a magnificent architectural wonder that attracts visitors from around the world. The mosque was built in 2001 by Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said, the then Sultan of Oman, who directed that his country should have a Grand Mosque. The mosque was designed by a team of architects and engineers from around the world.
The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is an important symbol of Islam in Oman, and it is one of the largest mosques in the world. The mosque can accommodate up to 20,000 worshippers at a time. The mosque is named after Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said, who ruled Oman for over 40 years and was known for his efforts to modernize the country.
The mosque's construction was a complex process that involved many different stages. The building contract was awarded to Carillion Alawi LLC, and the construction took over six years to complete. The mosque's design is a blend of Islamic and Omani architectural styles, and it features a central dome that is 50 meters high and five minarets that represent the five pillars of Islam.
Overall, the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is a testament to the rich history and culture of Oman, and it serves as an important religious and cultural center for the country. Its impressive design and architecture have made it one of the most popular tourist attractions in Oman.
Architecture
The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is an iconic architectural wonder located in Muscat, Oman. The mosque was built in 2001 and is considered one of the most impressive examples of contemporary Islamic architecture in the world.
The mosque's architecture is a blend of traditional Islamic design and modern elements. The central dome of the mosque is 50 meters high and is surrounded by four smaller domes. The dome is made of sandstone and is adorned with intricate mosaics and calligraphy.
The mosque also features five towering minarets, each standing at 45 meters tall. The minarets are designed to represent the five pillars of Islam and are made of marble and sandstone.
The interior of the mosque is equally stunning. The prayer hall is adorned with breathtaking chandeliers and features a beautiful hand-woven Persian carpet that covers an area of over 4,000 square meters. The carpet is considered one of the largest in the world and took four years to complete.
The mosque's walls are made of Indian sandstone and are adorned with intricate carvings and calligraphy. The marble columns are also engraved with beautiful designs and patterns.
Overall, the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is a true masterpiece of Islamic architecture. Its unique blend of traditional and modern elements makes it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in architecture and design.
Interior Design
The interior design of the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat, Oman, is a stunning display of Islamic architecture and craftsmanship. The mosque's interior features intricate details, beautiful designs, and luxurious materials that create a serene and peaceful atmosphere.
One of the most striking features of the interior is the massive chandelier that hangs in the main prayer hall. The chandelier is made of Swarovski crystals and is one of the largest in the world, weighing over eight tons. It is suspended from the center of the hall's dome, which is adorned with intricate geometric patterns and Arabic calligraphy.
The prayer hall's floor is covered by a Persian carpet, which is one of the largest in the world and took four years to weave. The carpet is made of natural dyes and wool, and its intricate design features 1.7 billion knots. The carpet's colors, which include red, green, and gold, complement the hall's marble walls and create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The mosque's halls are lined with beautiful marble columns and feature intricate designs and patterns. The perimeter hallways offer stunning views of the mosque's courtyard and gardens and provide access to the library, which houses a collection of Islamic books and manuscripts.
The mosque's prayer hall is the highlight of the interior design, with its intricate details and beautiful decorations. The hall's walls are adorned with Arabic calligraphy and feature intricate geometric patterns that create a sense of harmony and balance. The hall's ceiling is also decorated with intricate designs and patterns that complement the chandelier and the carpet.
Overall, the interior design of the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is a testament to the beauty and elegance of Islamic architecture and design. The mosque's designers and craftsmen have created a space that is both awe-inspiring and peaceful, and visitors to the mosque are sure to be impressed by its beauty and grandeur.
Cultural Significance
The Grande Mesquita do Sultão Qaboos in Muscat, Oman, is not only a place of worship for the followers of Islam but also an important cultural landmark of the country. This magnificent mosque was built to honor the late Sultan Qaboos bin Said, who was a great patron of the arts and architecture. The mosque's architecture and design reflect the country's cultural heritage and its Islamic identity.
The mosque's design is a fusion of Islamic, Middle Eastern, and Omani architectural styles. The mosque's main prayer hall can accommodate up to 20,000 worshipers at a time, making it one of the largest mosques in the world. The mosque's exterior is made of sandstone, while the interior is adorned with intricate Islamic calligraphy, mosaics, and ornate chandeliers.
The mosque's significance can be seen in the five pillars of Islam that it represents. These pillars are the foundation of Islamic faith and include the declaration of faith, prayer, charity, fasting, and pilgrimage. The mosque's design and layout reflect these pillars, and the mosque's visitors can experience the importance of each pillar.
Non-Muslims are also welcome to visit the mosque and learn about Islamic culture and traditions. The mosque offers guided tours that provide visitors with an insight into Islamic beliefs and practices. The mosque's architecture and design are also a testament to the rich Islamic culture and its contribution to the world's architectural heritage.
In conclusion, the Grande Mesquita do Sultão Qaboos is a significant cultural and religious landmark of Oman. Its design and architecture reflect the country's Islamic identity and cultural heritage. The mosque's importance can be seen in the five pillars of Islam that it represents, and it is a place where both Muslims and non-Muslims can come together to learn about Islamic culture and traditions.
Visitor Information
The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is a must-visit attraction for anyone traveling to Muscat. Here are some important details to keep in mind before visiting:
Dress Code
Visitors to the mosque are required to dress modestly. Men should wear long pants and shirts with sleeves, while women should wear clothing that covers their arms and legs. Women are also required to cover their hair with a scarf. If you don't have appropriate clothing, you can borrow an abaya and scarf at the mosque entrance.
Tour Agency
If you prefer to visit the mosque with a guide, there are several tour agencies in Muscat that offer guided tours of the mosque. These tours typically include transportation to and from the mosque and a knowledgeable guide who can provide insight into the mosque's history and significance.
GPS Coordinates
The GPS coordinates for the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque are 23.58389, 58.38917. These coordinates can be entered into a GPS device or mapping app to help you navigate to the mosque.
Mosque Hours
The mosque is open to visitors every day except Friday from 8:00 am to 11:00 am. Visitors should arrive early to allow enough time to explore the mosque before it closes.
Mosque Rules
Visitors to the mosque are required to follow a few rules to ensure the sanctity of the mosque is respected. These rules include:
No shoes are allowed inside the mosque.
Visitors should be respectful and quiet while inside the mosque.
Photography is allowed in most areas of the mosque, but visitors should check with mosque staff before taking photos.
Food and drink are not allowed inside the mosque.
Accessibility
The mosque is wheelchair accessible and has designated parking spaces for visitors with disabilities. Visitors who require special assistance can contact mosque staff for assistance.
Nearby Attractions
Grande Mesquita do Sultão Qaboos is located in Muscat, Oman, a city that boasts a rich cultural heritage and a variety of attractions for visitors to explore. Here are some nearby attractions that visitors can check out:
Arts and Entertainment
For those interested in arts and culture, the Royal Opera House Muscat is a must-visit attraction. This stunning venue hosts a variety of performances throughout the year, including opera, ballet, and classical music concerts.
Nearby Cities
Muscat is also a great base for exploring nearby cities. Just a short drive away is the historic city of Nizwa, which is known for its traditional souks and impressive fort. Visitors can also explore the ancient ruins of the city of Qalhat, which dates back to the 11th century.
Hotels Nearby
Visitors to Grande Mesquita do Sultão Qaboos will find a range of accommodation options nearby. The Al Bustan Palace, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel, is a luxurious option that offers stunning views of the Gulf of Oman. The Grand Hyatt Muscat is another popular choice, with its central location and range of amenities.
Airport
Muscat International Airport is the main airport serving the city, and is located just a short drive from Grande Mesquita do Sultão Qaboos. The airport is served by a variety of airlines, including Oman Air, Emirates, and Qatar Airways.
Companies and Places Nearby
There are a number of companies and places of interest located near Grande Mesquita do Sultão Qaboos. The nearby Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre is a popular venue for conferences and events, while the Muscat City Centre Mall is a great place to shop and dine. Other nearby attractions include the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex and the Oman Automobile Association.
Accommodations
Muscat offers a wide range of accommodations for visitors to the city, including hotels and apartments. Some of the popular options near the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque include Muscat Tiger Home Hotel Apartments, Muscat Johny International Hotel, Muscat Weekend Hotel Apartments, Muscat Majan Continental Hotel, Muscat Savoy Inn Hotel, and more.
Muscat Tiger Home Hotel Apartments is a popular choice for visitors looking for a comfortable and affordable stay. The hotel offers spacious and well-equipped apartments with free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and flat-screen TVs. Muscat Johny International Hotel is another popular option, offering modern rooms with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and minibars.
For visitors who prefer to stay in apartments, Muscat Weekend Hotel Apartments is a great choice. The apartments are spacious and well-equipped, with kitchenettes, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. Muscat Majan Continental Hotel is a more upscale option, offering luxurious rooms and suites with modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, minibars, and free Wi-Fi.
Other popular options in the area include Muscat Savoy Inn Hotel, Way 3709 - Building 1094 - Sauth Al Ghoubra - Bawsher, South Al Ghubra, Bawsher behind Al Asala Tower, Bawsher- Sauth Al Ghoubra- behind Al Asala Tower, and P.O. Box 311, Ghala, next to the airport. Visitors can choose from a variety of accommodations that suit their needs and budget.
Overall, visitors to Muscat can expect to find a range of accommodations near the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, from budget-friendly options to more luxurious hotels and apartments.
International Visitors
Grande Mesquita do Sultão Qaboos is a popular destination for international visitors from various countries such as India, Malaysia, Australia, South Africa, United Kingdom, Canada, Philippines, Ukraine, Greece, Nigeria, Pakistan, Spain, and more.
Visitors from these countries are welcome to visit the mosque, but they are required to follow certain guidelines. The mosque is open to non-Muslim visitors every day except Friday, from 8:30 am to 11:00 am. Visitors are advised to dress modestly and in a way that befits a place of worship.
For female visitors, it is recommended to wear loose-fitting clothing that covers the arms and legs. The mosque provides abayas, full-length dresses that cover the ankles, for rent at the entrance. Male visitors are advised to wear long pants and shirts that cover their shoulders. Shoes must be removed before entering the mosque.
Visitors are not allowed to take photographs inside the mosque, but they can take pictures of the exterior and the surrounding gardens. The mosque has a café and a gift shop at the entrance, where visitors can buy souvenirs and refreshments.
International visitors are advised to check the local customs and laws of Oman before visiting the mosque. It is important to respect the local culture and traditions while visiting the mosque and other places in Oman.
In summary, Grande Mesquita do Sultão Qaboos welcomes visitors from around the world, but they must follow certain guidelines and respect the local customs and traditions. The mosque provides abayas for rent and has a café and gift shop at the entrance.
In Other Languages
The Grande Mesquita do Sultão Qaboos, located in Muscat, Oman, is a magnificent mosque that attracts visitors from all over the world. The mosque is also known by different names in various languages. Here are some of the names of the mosque in different languages:
Arabic: جَامِع ٱلسُّلْطَان قَابُوْس ٱلْأَكْبَر (Jāmiʿ As-Sulṭān Qābūs Al-Akbar)
Czech: mešita sultána kábúse
Hebrew: המסגד הגדול סולטאן קאבוס
French: grande mosquée du sultan qabus
Persian: مسجد السلطان قابوس الكبير
Finnish: sulttaani qaboosin suurmoskeija
German: große sultan-qabus-moschee
English: National Mosque of Oman
Norwegian: sultan qabus-stormoskeen
Dutch: sultan qaboes-moskee
Spanish: gran mezquita del sultán qaboos
Russian: мечеть султана кабуса
Norwegian: nasjonalmoskeen i oman
The mosque is a symbol of Islamic architecture and has been designed to accommodate more than 20,000 worshippers at a time. The mosque has a beautiful interior and exterior design, which includes a large prayer hall, a library, and a lecture hall. The mosque also has a beautiful garden that has been designed with various plants and flowers.
Visitors from different parts of the world come to see the mosque's beauty and learn about Islamic culture and architecture. The mosque is open to visitors from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. every day except Friday. Visitors are required to dress modestly and remove their shoes before entering the mosque.
In conclusion, the Grande Mesquita do Sultão Qaboos is a beautiful mosque that attracts visitors from all over the world. The mosque is known by different names in various languages, and it is a symbol of Islamic architecture and culture. Visitors can explore the mosque's beauty and learn about Islamic culture and architecture during their visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the history of the Grande Mesquita do Sultão Qaboos in Muscat?
The Grande Mesquita do Sultão Qaboos in Muscat, Oman, was built by Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said in 2001. The mosque was designed by architect Mohammed Saleh Makiya and is one of the largest mosques in the world.
What is the architecture of the Grande Mesquita do Sultão Qaboos in Muscat?
The Grande Mesquita do Sultão Qaboos in Muscat is an architectural masterpiece that blends traditional Islamic design with modern technology. The mosque covers an area of 416,000 square meters and can accommodate up to 20,000 worshippers. The building is made with 300,000 tons of Indian sandstone, and the prayer hall is 5535 square meters. The central dome rises to a height of 50 meters, and the main minaret is 90 meters tall, with four minarets that flank it, each 45.5 meters tall.
What are the visiting hours for the Grande Mesquita do Sultão Qaboos in Muscat?
The visiting hours for the Grande Mesquita do Sultão Qaboos in Muscat are from 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM every day except Friday, which is reserved for worshippers only. The mosque is closed to visitors during prayer times.
What is the dress code for visiting the Grande Mesquita do Sultão Qaboos in Muscat?
Visitors to the Grande Mesquita do Sultão Qaboos in Muscat are required to dress modestly. Men must wear long pants and shirts with sleeves, and women must cover their heads and wear loose-fitting clothing that covers their arms and legs.
Are there any guided tours available for the Grande Mesquita do Sultão Qaboos in Muscat?
Yes, there are guided tours available for the Grande Mesquita do Sultão Qaboos in Muscat. Visitors can book a tour in advance or hire a guide at the mosque. The tours are conducted in English, Arabic, and other languages.
What is the significance of the Grande Mesquita do Sultão Qaboos in Muscat for the local community?
The Grande Mesquita do Sultão Qaboos in Muscat is a symbol of Oman's religious and cultural heritage. The mosque is not only a place of worship but also a center for Islamic education and research. It is a source of pride for the local community and a popular tourist attraction, attracting visitors from all over the world.