The Faisal Mosque, also known as Shah Faisal Masjid, stands in Sector E-7 of Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan. It is the largest mosque in the country and ranks among the largest in the world, and it is one of the first places many visitors head to when they arrive in the city.
The building
The mosque was designed by the Turkish architect Vedat Dalokay. Its contemporary form is its most striking feature: the main structure is widely described as resembling a Bedouin tent, a departure from the domes and minarets more typical of mosques in the region. Visitors often remark on how the large, open spaces and clean lines set it apart from older religious buildings they may have seen.
What a visit offers
- A chance to see one of the largest mosques in the world up close, set against the foothills that frame the capital.
- An example of modern architecture in a religious setting, which suits visitors interested in design.
- A convenient starting point for exploring the wider Islamabad area, including the other sectors of the city.
Because it is an active place of worship, visitors should dress modestly and behave respectfully, following any guidance given on site. If you would like to check arrangements before you go, the mosque can be reached by telephone at +92-51-9206045.
The Faisal Mosque is best suited to travellers who want a striking landmark with a distinctive design, and who are happy to combine a visit with a walk or a drive through the city's planned districts.
