The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is the main mosque of Oman and a masterpiece of modern Islamic architecture, a serene and magnificent complex of gleaming sandstone in the capital, Muscat. Completed in 2001, its vast prayer hall is graced by one of the largest hand-woven carpets in the world and a colossal Swarovski crystal chandelier, and its tranquil courtyards, arcades and gardens make it one of the few grand mosques in the region that warmly welcomes non-Muslim visitors.

What you actually see

• The main prayer hall - the vast hall with its giant carpet and chandelier.
• The great carpet - one of the largest hand-woven carpets in the world.
• The courtyards and arcades - the serene gleaming stone and gardens.
• The craftsmanship - the marble, tilework and woodwork throughout.

When to go

October to April for the pleasant cool season, as Omani summers are fiercely hot; note that it is open to non-Muslim visitors only in the mornings, outside prayer times, so go in the morning and check the visiting hours.

Honest expectations

It is open to non-Muslim visitors only during set morning hours, so plan around them. A strict modest dress code is enforced: shoulders, arms and legs covered for all, and women must cover their hair, so bring a headscarf. Shoes are removed. It is calm, welcoming and free, one of the highlights of Muscat.

Nearby

The Mutrah souq, the Royal Opera House and the forts of Muscat are in the city.