Most iconic mosques in Qatar

Mosques are one of the most notable features of Islamic countries around the world.

In the Middle East, where Islam is a predominant religion, mosques play a pivotal role in not just serving as places of worship but also as centers where community spirit, brotherhood, and unity flourish.

As an Islamic country, Qatar is home to over 2000 mosques that are spread across its different regions. These are managed by the country's Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs.

Here's a quick look at some of the most iconic mosques in Qatar which form an integral part of the country's rich identity and are recognized for their architectural beauty.

Abdullah bin Zaid Al Mahmoud Islamic Cultural Center

Anyone who has visited Qatar would be familiar with this prominent landmark. Although not an ancient construction, this spiral mosque housed in the Souqs area has become one of the most notable mosques in the country.

Just parallel to Souq Waqif, the Abdullah bin Zaid Al-Mahmoud Islamic Cultural Center, also known as Fanaar, is not a traditional Qatari mosque but a replica of the Great Mosque of Al-Mutawwakil in Samarra in Iraq.

The Center presents Islam as a way of life for all people and works on motivating non-Muslims to become more informed about Islam.

It strives to develop a social environment for people of different cultural backgrounds to come together and learn the hospitable Qatari culture and rich traditions of the people of Qatar. 

Among other activities, the center offers Arabic language courses and the unique opportunity to attend the khutbah (Friday sermon) in English.

To learn more about the center, click here.

Imam Muhammad bin Abdulwahhab Mosque

This is the national mosque of Qatar, more popularly known as the State Mosque. It is one of the largest mosques in the country and has been renamed after the great Muslim reformer of the 18th century, ‘Imam Muhammad Ibn Abdul Wahhab’.

The mosque features an imposing building with many domes and was built with a fascinating mix of both traditional Arabic and modern architecture which includes sparkling half-moons, a minaret, and large open outdoor spaces.

It reflects elements of traditional Islamic architecture with its distinguishing domed roof. The mosque adds to Qatar's stunning architectural landscape and is one of the most prominent landmarks in the country.

The state mosque has a capacity of 30,000 worshipers at peak times and events and spans over a total area of about 175,000 meters.

Education City Mosque 

This is one of the relatively newer mosques in Qatar which is located within Education City, Qatar Foundation in Al Rayyan.

It is one of the most breathtaking mosques in the country and stands out for its exquisite design. 

The Education City Mosque is located in the Minaretein building, which rests on five large columns representing the five pillars of Islam, with each featuring a verse drawn from the Holy Qur’an.

With the capacity to host 1,800 worshippers in its main prayer hall and another 1,000 in its exterior courtyard, it also serves as a community mosque for the surrounding Al Rayyan area.

Katara Mosque

The Masjid (mosque) of Katara is one of the most beautiful Masjids in Qatar. It is designed by the globally-known Turkish mosque designer, Zainab Fadil Oglu.

The decorations of this mosque were designed by a team of restoration specialists from Dolma Palace in Istanbul.

The mosque features an outer surface garnished with turquoise and purple mosaic and a wonderful interior design that showcases distinct glamor.

The interior and exterior architectural designs, coupled with the minaret, the dome, and the prayer niche (mihrab) are all inspired by several famous mosques found in various cities and capitals of the Muslim world.

The mosque is adorned with artistic handicrafts including ornaments, inscriptions, and mosaic tiles.

This is a must-see mosque if you're on a visit to Qatar and one that will stun you with its beauty.

Hamad International Airport Mosque

Due to its strategic location, the Hamad International Airport Mosque is sure to catch your eye as you arrive in Qatar.

Shaped like a water droplet, this mosque's architecture is one to marvel at. While its striking blue exterior is mesmerizing, its interior is another delight from where you can enjoy spectacular views of the lagoon and Amiri Terminal.

If you’re exiting Hamad International Airport you could also pray at this public mosque, which is located just outside the passenger terminal, within walking distance from the Departures Hall.

Let us know which mosques in Qatar stand out as iconic for you in the comments section below. 

---

Make sure to check out our social media to keep track of the latest content.

Instagram - @qatarliving

Twitter - @qatarliving

Facebook - Qatar Living

YouTube - qatarlivingofficial