Recommended Mosques to Visit: The Greatest Islamic Buildings in the World
U.A.E - Morocco - Malaysia - Qatar - Saudi Arabia - Turkey -
Islamic architecture shines with unparalleled creativity, making it one of the most sacred destinations globally, attracting immense numbers to explore and learn about its history.
If you have been searching for the most famous mosques globally, here is an article highlighting the most renowned and historic mosques that are worth your visit.
1: Masjid al-Haram
When mentioning famous mosques, the first destination that comes to mind is Masjid al-Haram in Mecca, known for its ancient history and its importance in Islam.
Masjid al-Haram is the largest mosque in the world, serving as the focal point for Hajj and Umrah rituals and the foundation for various Islamic prayers.
The Kaaba, located in the centre of the mosque, makes it a religious tourist destination, highlighting its historical significance as the first house established for people to perform prayers.
The mosque has evolved over the years since the time of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and through the eras of the Caliphs and beyond.
The mosque can accommodate over 4 million worshippers, offering a spiritual experience for those performing prayers and Hajj or Umrah.
2: Al Masjid an Nabawi
In the same country that houses Masjid al-Haram, Saudi Arabia offers another marvel, the Prophet's Mosque (Al Masjid an Nabawi), allowing visitors and worshippers to perform prayers in the second holiest site on earth.
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was the Imam of this mosque, which was built a year after his migration, adjacent to his house.
The mosque has undergone numerous expansions over centuries, reaching its current state.
Praying in this magnificent mosque is equivalent to 1,000 prayers in any other mosque, adding to the religious significance of Al Masjid an Nabawi.
3: Al-Aqsa Mosque
Al-Aqsa Mosque in Palestine is not only known for the mosque itself but also for the entire area enclosed by the rectangular wall in the southeast of Jerusalem's Old City.
Known as the first Qibla and the third holiest mosque after Masjid al-Haram and Al Masjid an Nabawi, Al-Aqsa Mosque is one of the most attractive religious tourist destinations globally.
The mosque’s architecture is similar to other mosques but is distinguished by its golden dome and extensive outdoor area.
The mosque has undergone several restorations and renovations, maintaining its beauty and significance up to the present day.
4: Masjid Quba
Masjid Quba is the first and oldest mosque in the Islamic world, dating back to the 7th century AH.
The mosque holds deep religious and spiritual significance for Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), his companions, and all Muslims, as the Prophet stayed there for 3-4 days with his close companion Abu Bakr Al-Siddiq during his migration.
Masjid Quba is a highly visited religious destination, where praying two Rak'ahs within the mosque is rewarded with the equivalent of a complete Umrah.
5: The Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque)
Don’t miss visiting the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, known as the Blue Mosque, during your trip to Istanbul.
It is one of the city's most important landmarks and one of the most beautiful and famous buildings. The mosque was built by Sultan Ahmed and can accommodate more than 10,000 worshippers.
The mosque is renowned for its magnificent architecture, featuring six minarets and eight large domes. When visiting the mosque, be sure to perform your prayers and enjoy the spiritual atmosphere, as well as explore the stunning Islamic architecture in Turkish style.
6: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is ranked as one of the most beautiful mosques in the world, known for its elegant architectural design and soothing white paint.
The mosque boasts 82 gleaming white domes and 1,096 columns inlaid with amethyst and jasper, along with numerous inscriptions adorning its walls, giving it unparalleled fluid beauty.
The mosque is also famous for its hand-woven carpet, which holds the Guinness World Record for the largest handmade carpet.
The mosque offers various services, including sermons, public religious events, and significant social initiatives.
7: Shohada Mosque
Known for its elegant architectural style and white colour, Shohada Mosque in Medina is also called the Mosque of the Martyrs.
The mosque is a significant historical landmark for Muslims because many who fought alongside the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in the Battle of Uhud, including the revered companion Hamza ibn Abdul-Muttalib, are buried nearby.
The mosque covers a large area, accommodating more than 15,000 worshippers from different countries and nationalities.
The mosque provides essential services and facilities, including ablution stations for pilgrims, special facilities for people with disabilities, and assistance in learning fundamental religious principles.
8: Imam Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab Mosque
Located in Qatar, this mosque is the largest in the country and is among the most famous religious sites globally.
Named after Imam Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab, the mosque was officially opened in 2011.
The mosque was built on a vast area of 175,000 square meters and can accommodate more than 30,000 worshippers in its courtyard.
The mosque’s exterior design is adorned with 28 large domes and 65 smaller ones, along with a Mihrab and three main entrances.
Additionally, the mosque includes three libraries, separate prayer halls, and ablution facilities for men and women, as well as special halls for Quran memorisation, making it a renowned landmark in Qatar for its splendid design and deep religious significance.
9: Hassan II Mosque
Situated in Casablanca, Morocco, the Hassan II Mosque is a landmark that reflects the rich historical and spiritual heritage of the region.
The mosque serves as a religious and cultural centre for visitors, being built on a coastal site overlooking the sea, reminiscent of the Quranic verse, "And His Throne was upon the water" (Hud, verse 7).
Unlike any other mosque, the Hassan II Mosque is distinguished by its elegant architectural design, blending authentic Moroccan architecture with modern engineering.
The mosque covers a large area, accommodating more than 25,000 worshippers inside and an additional 80,000 in the outdoor courtyard, making it a timeless religious and tourist destination.
10: Crystal Mosque (Masjid Kristal)
From its name, you can already envision the beauty of its design and Islamic architecture in its true form.
Despite being relatively new, the mosque has gained popularity among visitors from around the world. Located in the Islamic Heritage Park in Kuala Terengganu, in the northeastern part of Malaysia, its fame has grown, attracting attention for its remarkable architecture.
The mosque is made from steel, glass, and crystal, leaving a stunning impression on all who visit. The mosque is one of the largest in its country and Southeast Asia in terms of area.
Commissioned by Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin, the mosque began construction in 2006 and was completed in 2008, emerging as a glowing, crystal-coated piece of art.
