Mosques and Islamic Centers in Qatar

Mosques and Islamic Centers are places where Muslims offer prayer 5 times a day, get religious education, and hold community gatherings. Qatar is a country deeply rooted in Islamic traditions and provides magnificent Mosques and Islamic Centers. There are almost 2000 mosques, which are managed by the Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs and some Qatar museums.

Qatar mosques are not just places of worship but also stunning examples of architecture, and amazement that reflect the nation’s culture. People go to mosques and Islamic centers to visit, and exploring them offers both spiritual and historical insights into Islam.

General Information

Mosques in Qatar serve as both places of worship and cultural hubs, welcoming visitors who wish to learn about Islam. While anyone can visit, it is important to understand key aspects of mosques and follow proper etiquette. There are different timings in Ramadan, please ask for the details before going for a visit.

Visitor Access: Many large mosques in Qatar, such as the Fanar Islamic Cultural Center, welcome non-Muslim visitors and offer guided tours to educate them about Islamic traditions.

Athan (Call to Prayer): The Athan is announced five times a day to invite Muslims to prayer, traditionally recited by a muezzin from the mosque’s minaret. Check Atthan and Prayer times online.

Minaret: A tall tower attached to a mosque, from where the Athan is called. It serves both a religious and architectural purpose. Anyone finding a mosque for prayer can easily find it.

Etiquette: Visitors should dress modestly, remove their shoes before entering, and maintain a quiet, respectful demeanour inside the mosque.

What is a Mosque?

A mosque is a place of worship for Muslims, where they gather for daily prayers, Friday sermons, and community events. It’s not just a prayer space but also a center for learning and spiritual connection, welcoming anyone who follows proper etiquette.

List Of Mosques in Qatar

There are 2,000 mosques in Qatar, including several grand mosques and smaller community mosques spread across the country. Some of them are old and have a historical background with magnificent architecture. Some mosques are described in detail which is given in the section. 

Abu Manaratain Mosque

The Abu Manaratain Mosque, in Al Wakra was constructed in 1940 and rebuilt in 2004. It has small walls at its exterior, so people can see it easily from outside. Its name means “two minarets,” in Arabic, but in reality, it has just one tall tower. People came here to see its beauty, and architecture and to be amazed by its historical background. 

Al Qubib Mosque 

Al Qubib Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in Qatar which is situated in central Doha’s Al Souq area and it accommodates 800 worshippers at a time. It was rebuilt in 1950 on the devastated site of the older mosque and appeared as an example of a multi-dome mosque in the Gulf area. But the Al Qubib Masjid Plaza project has been restored recently to its original beauty. It has now added modern amenities like offices, technical rooms, and ablution facilities.

Al Ruwais Mosque

Al Ruwais Mosque located in northern Qatar is under renovation by QM. Built in 1915 on the site of an older 17th-century mosque. 

This mosque is Qatar’s oldest mosque with three connected galleries, 

• One: housing a simple mihrab (related to prayer niche), in the wall of the mosque that shows the Qibla (Direction of Kaaba)
• Second one: A small stone staircase that is related to the Minbar (pulpit) from where the sermon is delivered to the people.
• The last: gallery opens to a courtyard, where a tall octagonal minaret with a square base stands. The minaret has a cone-shaped dome with openings for light and air. People can be entered by a spiral staircase or ladder.

Al Shioukh Mosque 

Al Shioukh Mosque, located on the Doha Corniche near the Amiri Diwan and Clocktower is designed to have multiple domes with green and white colour schemes. Al Shioukh Mosque is not open to the public.

Aspire Mosque 

Aspire Mosque covers 1,460 sq m and can bear 700 men and 150 women for prayer at a time. Its design with architectural details that complement the blends well with some surrounding buildings.

Hamad Bin Jassim Bin Jaber Al Thani Mosque

Hamad Bin Jassim Bin Jaber Al Thani Mosque’s second name is Hamad bin Jassim Mosque also known as “The Pearl Mosque”, and is situated in Porto Arabia on Pearl Island. Its features of marble stone and large stained glass windows show the combination of Gothic and Islamic style which are surrounded by greenery and water. It can bear 2,500 worshippers.

Hamad International Airport (HIA) Mosque

HIA is made as the public mosque which is near the passenger terminal and within a short walk from Departures or halls. It is designed to resemble water droplets offering stunning views of the lagoon and Amiri Terminal.

Imam Muhammad Ibn Abdul Wahhab Mosque

The renamed State Mosque which is located on Khalifa Street/Onaiza Street, is the largest mosque in Qatar which is also known as The State Mosque. It can hold 10,000 people inside and 30,000 people outside. The courtyard has stone benches and is lit with traditional-style and soft lights. 

Inside, the main prayer hall features 28 large domes and a 65-meter-high minaret. Inside, there are 28 big domes and a tall tower (65 meters high). Its design is inspired by the ‘Bo Al Qabib’ mosque which Sheikh Jasim bin Mohammed Al Thani, the founder of modern Qatar, made. Although The mosque is not open to visitors, it looks very amazing, especially at night.

List of Islamic Centers in Qatar

There are many Islamic centers in Qatar as it has a mosque. Here is the list of Islamic centers:

Al-Mujadilah Center and Mosque for Women

Al-Mujadilah is a mosque and Islamic center for Muslim women of all ages. This mosque mainly offers religious, educational, as well as social programs in many languages like  Arabic and English. 

Including courses, workshops, and discussions on Islamic history, law, mental health, and relationships. The center has a wide range of classrooms, a library, gathering spaces, cafes, and gardens. 

Education City Mosque

Education City Mosque is a big white building with a high ceiling that has Quranic verses written on it near to Education City Stadium. Small lights are all around and they can hold about 1,800 people in its indoor prayer halls and outdoor courtyard.

The first-floor men’s prayer room has a built-in library and a magnificent gilded mihrab within a Quran-decorated alcove. Located upstairs for the women’s gallery room, with its own seating area which is divided by a high wall separating it from the main hall. The mosque is built on five strong pillars and beautifully decorated with Quranic verses, with four streams flowing from a garden that surrounds the structure. 

From one side of the mosque, two tall slim minarets stretch 90 meters skyward in the direction of Mecca. Islamic calligraphy is a central design element, embellishing the roof, ceramic tiles, and glass windows. 

Can Non-Muslims Visit Mosques? Myths & Etiquette Explained

Many people believe that non-Muslims are not allowed to enter mosques, but this is a misconception. In reality, mosques welcome visitors from all backgrounds, as long as they follow proper etiquette. Large mosques, especially cultural and educational centers, even offer guided tours to teach visitors about Islamic history and traditions. If you are planning to visit a mosque, here are a few simple guidelines to follow:

• Dress Modestly: Men should wear long pants and avoid sleeveless tops, while women are encouraged to wear a long dress and cover their hair. Some mosques provide abayas and scarves for visitors.
• Respect the Environment: Mosques are places of worship, so visitors should speak softly and avoid loud conversations.
• Follow Local Customs: Some mosques have designated areas for visitors and may have specific visiting hours, so it’s best to check in advance.

By following these simple rules, anyone can experience the beauty and serenity of a mosque while learning about Islamic culture in an open and welcoming environment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, mosques and Islamic centers in Qatar play a vital role in the country’s religious, cultural, and educational life. With more than 2,000 mosques, including the iconic Imam Muhammad Ibn Abdul Wahhab Mosque, Qatar provides spaces for worship, learning, and community activities. While non-Muslims are allowed to visit specific mosques, it’s important to respect local customs, such as wearing modest clothing and honouring prayer times. 

Islamic centers give educational and learning opportunities for both Muslims and non-Muslims, helping to improve cultural knowledge. Whether for worship, learning, visiting, or exploration, these institutions reflect Qatar’s strong Islamic traditions and dedication to welcoming all.