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Jalil Khayat Mosque
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Landmark
Opened in 2007, the Jalil Khayat Mosque is the largest Islamic religious building in Erbil, combining modern construction techniques with traditional Ottoman styling. The mosque is named after the local businessman who funded its construction; following his passing before its completion, his sons finished the work. The central feature of the 15,000-square-meter complex is the 48-meter-high main dome, surrounded by several smaller domes decorated with blue and gold tiles. Two slender minarets rise 73 meters above the city. Inside the main prayer hall, the 12-meter-high mihrab is meticulously crafted from carved wood and marble, while the ceiling is illuminated by crystal chandeliers. The building can accommodate around 2,000 worshippers at once during Friday prayers.
- Location: Iraq
- Top sights: Jalil Khayat Mosque · Ministry Of Youngs & Culture · HaMo Artist
- Nearby: Akre (47 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 7 | 9 | 14 | 19 | 25 | 32 | 35 | 35 | 30 | 24 | 14 | 9 |
| Rain mm | 42 | 37 | 50 | 42 | 16 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 18 | 31 | 41 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Jalil Khayat Mosque is the largest mosque in Erbil and is open to non-Muslim visitors outside prayer times. Modest dress is required.
Typical hours
The mosque is typically open from morning until evening prayer, with closures during prayer times. Access may be restricted on Fridays.
Photography
Photography in the courtyard and prayer hall is often allowed, but not during prayer. Avoid photographing worshippers out of respect.
Time needed
Plan about 30 to 45 minutes for a visit. The architecture and interior decoration invite lingering.
Combine with
Combine your mosque visit with the nearby Erbil Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Qaysari Bazaar is also within walking distance.
Getting there
The mosque is in central Erbil, near the Citadel hill. Easily reached by taxi or on foot from the bazaar.
Insider tip
Visit the mosque in the late morning when light streams through the windows. Remove shoes before entering the prayer hall.
Geography
Facts
- The construction of the mosque took 10 years, finally opening its doors in 2007.
- The total footprint of the religious complex is approximately 15,000 square meters.
- The central dome of the building rises 48 meters from the floor level.
- Each of the two minarets towers 73 meters above the surrounding urban area.
- The interior prayer hall is designed to accommodate 2,000 worshippers simultaneously.
- Thousands of square meters of marble were utilized for the wall mosaics and interior spaces.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Jalil Khayat Mosque (14)
HaMo Artist🏛 museum
An art gallery in Erbil that showcases works by local artists and promotes the regional art scene.
🌐 instagram.com🕒 08:00-22:00
Oscar Company🎭 culture
A bustling commercial hub known for its trading activities and variety of local goods.
🌐 oscarorman.site🕒 08:00-20:30
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Can tourists enter the mosque?
Yes, outside of prayer times, access is allowed for visitors.
What is the architectural style?
It was built in the Ottoman style, similar to the Blue Mosque in Istanbul.
Do I need to take off my shoes?
Yes, as in all mosques, shoes must be removed at the entrance.
Is photography allowed?
Photography without flash is usually allowed, except during prayer.
Where is the mosque located?
It is located in the center of Erbil, not far from the historical Citadel.
Jalil Khayat Mosque: where is it located?
Jalil Khayat Mosque is located in Iraq.
Jalil Khayat Mosque: what is there to see?
Highlights include Jalil Khayat Mosque, Ministry Of Youngs & Culture, HaMo Artist.
Jalil Khayat Mosque: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Oct.
Jalil Khayat Mosque: why is it worth visiting?
Opened in 2007, the Jalil Khayat Mosque is the largest Islamic religious building in Erbil, combining modern construction techniques with traditional Ottoman styling.
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