The Al Fateh Grand Mosque, also known as the Ahmed Al Fateh Islamic Centre, stands in Juffair, a district of Manama, the capital of Bahrain. It is one of the largest mosques in the world, with room for more than 7,000 worshippers, and it makes a striking stop for visitors interested in Islamic architecture in the Gulf.
What to look out for
- Floors of Italian marble, laid across the wide prayer halls.
- Austrian crystal chandeliers hanging within the interior.
- The world's largest fiberglass dome, which is the feature many visitors come to see from below.
The scale of the building is the first thing most people notice. Open floors and high ceilings give the interior a sense of space, and the light from the chandeliers and the polished stone creates a calm atmosphere even when the halls are busy with worshippers.
Planning a visit
Because the mosque is an active place of worship, visitors should dress modestly and be prepared to follow the customs observed by those praying there. Check directly with the centre before you go, using the contact number +973 1772 7773, so you know what to expect on the day.
Juffair is a convenient base for exploring the wider city. Manama offers a mix of modern neighbourhoods, markets and older quarters, so the mosque can be combined easily with a half-day or a longer look around the capital.