Al Fateh Grand Mosque: A Bahraini Icon
Discover Bahrain's iconic Al Fateh Grand Mosque: A stunning architectural marvel and center for Islamic culture open to all visitors.
Al Fateh Grand Mosque, also known as the Al-Fateh Islamic Center, is a magnificent mosque located in Manama, Bahrain. It stands as a testament to modern Islamic architecture, blending traditional motifs with contemporary design. Named in honor of Ahmed Al Fateh, the founder of modern Bahrain, it symbolizes the nation's rich heritage and Islamic identity. Constructed in 1987 by the late Sheikh Isa Bin Salman Al Khalifa, the mosque covers an area of 6,500 square meters and can accommodate over 7,000 worshippers. Its most striking feature is the enormous fiberglass dome, once the largest in the world, allowing natural light to flood the main prayer hall. The interior is adorned with exquisite Italian marble, intricate Kufic calligraphy, and a stunning Austrian chandelier, while the doors are crafted from Indian teak. Beyond its architectural splendor, Al Fateh Grand Mosque serves as a center for Islamic culture and learning. The Ahmed Al-Fateh Islamic Center houses a library with approximately 7,000 books, including ancient Islamic texts and encyclopedias. The mosque is open to visitors of all faiths, offering free guided tours in multiple languages. These tours provide insights into Islamic beliefs, Bahraini culture, and the mosque's significance within the community. The mosque also hosts interfaith events and programs, promoting understanding and respect among different cultures. Located in Juffair, near the Al Fateh Highway, the mosque is easily accessible and close to other attractions like the Bahrain National Museum and Manama Souq. Al Fateh Grand Mosque is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of Bahrain's commitment to religious tolerance and cultural exchange.
Local tips
- Dress modestly when visiting; women should cover their heads, arms, and legs. Abayas and headscarves are available at the entrance.
- Visit between 9 am and 4 pm, except on Fridays and public holidays, to take advantage of the free guided tours.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Bahrain National Museum or Beit Al Quran to explore Bahrain's history and culture.
- Be mindful of prayer times; non-Muslims are welcome outside of these hours. Observe respectfully if prayer is in progress.
A brief summary to Al Fateh Grand Mosque
- 6H9X+H6F، Awal Avenue Corner Al Fatih Highway, Manama, Alfateh, BH
- +97317727773
- Monday 9 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4 pm
- Sunday 9 am-4 pm
Getting There
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Public Transport
From various points in Manama, the Al Fateh Grand Mosque is accessible via Bahrain Public Transport. Bus routes 12, A1, 41, and X4 have stops near the mosque. From the 'Alfateh Grand Mosque-2' bus stop, it's a short walk to the entrance. A single bus fare costs approximately 0.30 BHD. Use the 'GoBus Bahrain' app for real-time tracking and fare discounts.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Careem are readily available throughout Manama. A taxi ride from the city center (e.g., Manama Souq) to the Al Fateh Grand Mosque typically costs between 1.7 BHD and 3 BHD, depending on traffic. Ensure the driver knows the destination to avoid confusion with other landmarks. Careem offers a 'Careem Access' option for wheelchair-friendly vehicles.
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Driving
If driving, the Al Fateh Grand Mosque is located off Al Fatih Highway in Juffair. Ample free parking is available onsite , but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends before 10 AM. Overflow parking is available along Al Fatih Highway.
