The Grand Mosque

The Grand Mosque of Kuwait, the largest and most important mosque in the country, is a magnificent example of modern Islamic architecture and one of Kuwait City's most impressive sights. Completed in 1986, it blends Persian, Andalusian and classical Islamic influences in its soaring central dome, elegant minaret, and intricately decorated interior of carved stone, calligraphy and tilework. Its vast main prayer hall, capable of holding many thousands of worshippers, is crowned by a great dome and lit by an enormous chandelier, a serene and awe-inspiring space. Non-Muslim visitors are warmly welcomed on free guided tours, offering a rare and respectful insight into the faith and its art.

History

Construction began in 1979, and the mosque was completed at Eid al-Fitr of 1407 AH, in 1986-87. It covers 45,000 square metres, 20,000 of them under the building itself; the main prayer hall, 72 metres wide on each side, holds up to 10,000 men and a separate hall up to 950 women, and the central dome, 26 metres across and 43 metres high, is decorated with the 99 names of God. The minaret at the north-west corner follows Andalusian models, and the complex includes a library of Islamic reference works (Wikipedia, Grand Mosque of Kuwait).

What's there

• The great prayer hall - the vast hall beneath the dome and chandelier.
• The central dome and minaret - the soaring architecture.
• The intricate decoration - the carved stone, calligraphy and tilework.
• The guided tour - the welcoming insight into the mosque and faith.

When to go

November to March, the cooler season, for the most comfortable visit, as Kuwait's summers are extreme; the mosque offers free guided tours for non-Muslim visitors, best arranged in advance, during which modest dress is required and provided, and which offer a warm, informative welcome. Prayer times should be respected.

Things to know

As an active place of worship, the mosque requires modest dress, provided to visitors, and is accessed by non-Muslims on guided tours arranged around prayer times rather than freely, so a little planning is needed. Kuwait overall is a conservative country with limited conventional tourism and brutal summer heat. As a magnificent, welcoming example of modern Islamic architecture, though, with its vast prayer hall, soaring dome and intricate art, and the warm insight its tours offer, the Grand Mosque is a genuine highlight.

Nearby

The Kuwait Towers, the Seif Palace and the old souq are close by.

Key facts