Al Fateh Grand Mosque: A Bahraini Icon
Discover Bahrain's iconic Al Fateh Grand Mosque: a mesmerizing blend of Islamic architecture, culture, and history in the heart of Manama.
Al Fateh Grand Mosque, also known as the Al-Fateh Islamic Center, is a prominent landmark in Manama, Bahrain. Completed in 1988, the mosque was built by the late Sheikh Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa and named in honor of Ahmed Al Fateh. Al Fateh, meaning 'the opener' or 'conqueror,' founded modern-day Bahrain. Covering 6,500 square meters, the mosque can accommodate over 7,000 worshippers, making it one of the largest in the world. Its most striking feature is the massive fiberglass dome, weighing over 54 tons, recognized as one of the largest fiberglass domes globally. The mosque's design blends modern and traditional Islamic elements, a work of Egyptian architect Ahmed Juma. The interior showcases Italian marble flooring, a chandelier from Austria, and intricately carved teak doors from India. Kufic calligraphy adorns the mosque, adding to its artistic richness. Since 2006, the mosque has also housed the National Library of Bahrain, containing approximately 7,000 books, some over a century old. These include books on Hadith, the Global Arabic Encyclopedia, and Islamic Jurisprudence. Open to visitors of all faiths, the mosque offers tours in multiple languages between 9 am and 4 pm, except on Fridays. Modest attire is required, and women are provided with cloaks and headscarves. The mosque stands as a symbol of Bahrain's commitment to religious tolerance and cultural exchange.
Local tips
- Dress modestly when visiting; women will be provided with an abaya (cloak) and a headscarf.
- Visit between 9 am and 4 pm, except on Fridays, to take a free guided tour in various languages.
- Remember that the mosque is a place of worship; maintain silence and respect during prayer times.
- Explore the National Library of Bahrain, located within the mosque, to discover a collection of historical books and Islamic literature.
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
Several bus routes serve the Al Fateh Grand Mosque area. Bus routes 19, 41, 45, and A1 all stop near the mosque. Check the Bahrain Public Transport Company website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and routes. Alight at the 'Alfateh Grand Mosque-2' bus stop, a short walk from the entrance. A single bus fare costs approximately 0.3 BHD.
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Taxi
Taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber and Careem are readily available in Manama. A short taxi ride from the city center or nearby hotels to Al Fateh Grand Mosque typically costs between 7-9 BHD. Be sure to agree on the fare or check the meter before starting your journey. Taxis offer a convenient and quick way to reach the mosque.
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Walking
If you are in the vicinity of Manama, walking to the Al Fateh Grand Mosque is a viable option. From the Bahrain National Museum, it's approximately a 30-minute walk. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the city as you make your way to the mosque. Be mindful of the weather, especially during the hotter months. There are pathways and trails around the mosque to explore the exterior.
