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Faisal Mosque
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monument
The Faisal Mosque in Islamabad is one of Pakistan's most famous architectural landmarks and was the largest mosque in the world upon its completion in 1986. Named after Saudi King Faisal bin Abdulaziz, who funded the project, the design is a radical departure from traditional Islamic architecture. Instead of a conventional dome, Turkish architect Vedat Dalokay designed the structure to resemble a Bedouin tent. The striking eight-sided concrete shells are flanked by four 88-meter tall minarets, which are modeled after slender Turkish pencil minarets. Inside, the prayer hall is adorned with white marble, intricate mosaics, and a massive chandelier. The mosque can accommodate approximately 10,000 worshippers in the main hall and over 300,000 across the entire complex. Situated at the foot of the Margalla Hills, it serves as the northern terminus of Islamabad's main axis and stands as a symbol of modern Islamic design and international friendship.
- Location: Pakistan
- Top sights: Faisal Masjid · Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Arts And Craft Gallery · Bashir Khan's House
- Nearby: Rawalpindi (5 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Oct, Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 11 | 13 | 18 | 24 | 30 | 34 | 32 | 30 | 27 | 23 | 17 | 13 |
| Rain mm | 40 | 90 | 88 | 59 | 62 | 112 | 220 | 184 | 80 | 24 | 18 | 25 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Faisal Mosque is an active mosque, open to non-Muslims at certain times. Visitors must dress modestly and remove shoes before entering.
Typical hours
The mosque is typically open to visitors outside prayer times, usually from 9 am to 6 pm. On Fridays, it is often closed until 2 pm due to midday prayers.
Photography
Photography in the courtyard and prayer hall is allowed, but do not photograph people praying. Avoid flash during prayer times.
Time needed
Visiting the mosque and courtyard typically takes 30 to 45 minutes. If you also explore the gardens and museum, allow about an hour.
Combine with
The mosque sits at the foot of the Margalla Hills, making it easy to combine with a hike. The Pakistan Monument is also a short drive away.
Getting there
The mosque is accessible by taxi or bus (lines 2 or 4) from Islamabad city center. Paid parking is available near the entrance.
Insider tip
Come late afternoon when the light streams through the huge concrete arches, creating fantastic photo opportunities. Don’t miss the city view from the elevated terrace.
Geography
Facts
- The construction cost was approximately 120 million US dollars.
- The four minarets are 88 meters high, making them among the tallest in South Asia.
- The mosque building previously housed the International Islamic University.
- The design was selected from an international competition in 1969 featuring 43 countries.
- The prayer hall covers an area of approximately 5,000 square meters.
- The mosque is located on a 10-hectare site at the northern end of Faisal Avenue.
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Sights in the town Faisal Mosque (11)
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Frequently asked questions
What makes this mosque special?
It is known for its modern, tent-like design and is one of the largest mosques in the world.
Do women have to wear a headscarf?
Yes, wearing a headscarf upon entering the prayer hall is mandatory for women.
Is there an entry fee?
No, visiting the mosque is free.
When is it most beautiful?
In the evening, when it is illuminated, it provides an impressive backdrop against the Margalla hills.
Can I enter as a non-Muslim?
Yes, tourists are welcome, but should avoid prayer times.
Faisal Mosque: where is it located?
Faisal Mosque is located in Pakistan.
Faisal Mosque: what is there to see?
Highlights include Faisal Masjid, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Arts And Craft Gallery, Bashir Khan's House.
Faisal Mosque: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Oct, Nov.
Faisal Mosque: why is it worth visiting?
The Faisal Mosque in Islamabad is one of Pakistan's most famous architectural landmarks and was the largest mosque in the world upon its completion in 1986.
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