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Visiting mosques in Oman is a wonderful way to learn about the country’s history, architecture, and culture. The mosques in Oman are among the most ostentatious places of worship in the world, with estimated construction costs in the hundreds of millions of dollars. Non-Muslims can visit and examine several of these mosques at no cost as well.
Atheism and other faiths, too, are welcome in Oman, which is only one of the many wonderful qualities of the country. The majority may be Muslim, but it doesn't mean the law ignores those of other religions. One should also visit the two major temples of Oman, as Omani society is accommodating of other religions but yet maintains a social hierarchy system.
Did you know of these two temples in Oman?
There are two officially recognised Hindu temples in the nation. Muscat, Oman's Shiva temple (Motishwar Mandir), is among the earliest Hindu temples in the Middle Eastern area. Another one, Krishna Temple, is considered among the best temples in Muscat!
Mosques in Oman
Now onto the sacred and stunning architectural marvels that are Oman’s mosques! Here are some of the mosques that you must visit
Al Zawawi Mosque
Established in 1985, Al Zawawi Mosque stands tall in Al Khuwair. In honour of a loved one who passed away, the Al Zawawi family erected this mosque, making it a monument with a heartfelt story. Located in Al Khuwair's Ministries District, the Al Zawawi mosque stands out on a square as a haven of golden splendour amidst the city's growing chaos. On the inside walls of the mosque you may see metallic plates that have the entire Quran written on them, making it one of the most famous mosques in Oman!
Mazoon Mosque
The mother of Sultan Qaboos, Sayyidah Maizoon bint Ahmed bin Ali Al-Maashani, is commemorated by the namesake of the mosque, which goes by both Mazoon and Maizoon. In Mawalih, Muscat, you will find this stunning mosque which was constructed in 2006. It has traditional Islamic architectural forms and designs as well as a simple appearance with starry arches. Intricate calligraphy imprints, magnificent lights, and exquisitely carved wooden doors adorn the inside of this magnificent mosque. You should add it to your list since it is beautiful and peaceful. This is truly one of the best mosques in Oman.
Mosque of the Great Prophet
The main mosque for the Lawati tribe in Muscat is the Mosque of the Great Prophet. It dates back to the 15th century and was initially constructed on the corniche of Muttrah. The mosque had many renovations throughout the years, the most recent of which occurred in the 1990s. A beautiful blue dome and a blue minaret adorned with Quranic passages characterise the Mosque of the Great Prophet. At various points during the year, the mosque grounds come alive with Shia rituals and festivities.
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
This mosque is just what it sounds like—grand. This mosque is the most important in Oman, and it was named after Sultan Qaboos, the present sovereign of Oman. This magnificent mosque took seven years to construct and was completed in 2001. A massive 416,000 square meters in size, the mosque can accommodate up to 20,000 worshippers simultaneously. The mosque's exterior is stunning, but the inside is where its true beauty lies. The mosque's 14-meter-tall centre chandelier is crafted from Swarovski crystal. Moreover, a unique Persian rug, the second largest in the world, covers the mosque's floor. This mosque should be on your radar because of its beauty and grandeur—it is absolutely unmissable if you are travelling to Oman!
Al Khor Mosque
After changing its name from Masjid Al Shuhadaa, the Al Khor Mosque is currently known as the "Family Mosque" since it is frequented by prominent members of the royal family. The two domes of the historic mosque are a beautiful blue in tone. Golden inscriptions from the Quran adorn the walls, while blue, white, and brown tiles adorn the ceiling. The 99 names of God are inscribed in golden-coloured Arabic calligraphy on blue and white tiles that surround the ceiling of the mosque. The mosque's architecture and the famous crystal chandelier in the middle of the ceiling are a stunning feature of this mosque!
Mohamed Al Ameen Mosque
Muscat's Mohamed Al Ameen Mosque, sometimes called Bahwan Mosque, opened to the public in 2014. It can accommodate about 2,100 worshippers at once because of its size of about 20,300 square meters. The fact that it is visible from any roadway leading to Muscat is the mosque's finest feature. The mesmerising golden-coloured and illuminated domes are beautifully accentuated by the blue lights that encircle the mosque, so make sure you visit in the evening to see it all lit and beautiful!
In the middle of your sightseeing, make sure you also explore the street food in Oman. Or if fancy establishments is what you prefer, Omani restaurants in Muscat are perfect. Once done with these historical and spiritual marvels, you can also head to Oman's shopping destinations for some TLC, and make sure while there, you experience Omani coffee, which is actually made of dates, and not coffee beans.