head to head Oman vAbu Dhabi
Which of these world-famous mosques packs more wow factor? Joanna Booth weighs them up
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Oman Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi
IN A NUTSHELL
Muscat’s sprawling sandstone mosque is the only one in Oman open to non-worshippers, and was completed in 2001, celebrating 30 years of the sultan’s reign.
TELL ME MORE
Five minarets, representing the five pillars of Islam, and the unique 50-metre-high latticework dome inlaid with porcelain panels are the outstanding external features of this giant mosque, which has a capacity for 20,000 worshippers. Inside, there’s a riot of colour with rich carpets and intricate mosaics stretching up the soaring ceilings. Outside, extensive gardens create a haven of tranquillity. Remind clients to dress modestly, covering shoulders and legs. Women will need to cover their hair.
BEST TIME TO GO
Non-Muslims can visit the mosque every day except Friday, from 8.30am to 11am.
DID YOU KNOW?
The chandelier above the men’s prayer hall is 46ft and decorated with 600,000 gold-trimmed Swarovski crystals.
Book it: Andante Travels’ new 11-day Oman itinerary starts from £4,295 including flights, and visits the mosque plus other historic and cultural highlights, with an expert guide lecturer.
andantetravels.co.uk
IN A NUTSHELL
More than 90,000 tonnes of white Macedonian marble went into the construction of this mosque, commissioned by the former Emirati sheikh to mark his final resting place.
TELL ME MORE
Like a ‘best of’ compilation, the design of this vast white and gold mosque takes inspiration from a range of Islamic cultures. The 80 domes, held aloft by 1,000 pillars, show Pakistani influence, the archways are Moorish, and the minarets quintessentially Arab. Artisans and materials – including lapis lazuli, amethyst, mother of pearl and crystals – were brought from all over the world to create this vast mosque, which can hold 40,000 worshippers. There are audio guides in 11 languages, plus free tours in English.
BEST TIME TO GO
Saturday to Thursday, from 9am to 10pm, or until 3pm during Ramadan. On Fridays, the mosque is closed until 4.30pm, and for the whole day during Ramadan.
DID YOU KNOW?
The main prayer hall carpet is the largest in the world. It took 1,300 Iranian carpet knotters two years to complete.
Book it: Shearings’ new five-day Abu Dhabi Desert Discovery tour visits the mosque, with prices from £1,252 including flights.
shearingsagent.com
travelweekly.co.uk/atas
September 2019 19
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