The Mosque of Muhammad Ali: Cairo's Ottoman Icon

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A majestic Ottoman mosque in Cairo's Citadel, offering stunning views and a glimpse into Egypt's modern history and Islamic art.

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Mohamed Ali mosque

Dominating Cairo's skyline from its perch atop the Citadel, the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, also known as the Alabaster Mosque, is a stunning example of Ottoman architecture. Built in the 19th century, it commemorates Muhammad Ali Pasha's son and offers panoramic views of the city. Its unique design and historical significance make it a must-see landmark.

A brief summary to Mohamed Ali mosque

27H5+JQP, El Khalifa, Al Abageyah, Cairo Governorate, EG

Monday 8 am-9 pm
Tuesday 8 am-9 pm
Wednesday 8 am-9 pm
Thursday 8 am-9 pm
Friday 8 am-9 pm
Saturday 8 am-9 pm
Sunday 8 am-9 pm

Local tips

Dress modestly; women should cover their heads, shoulders, and knees, and men should wear long pants.
Visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds, especially during tourist season.
Remove your shoes before entering the mosque; you can carry them or use the provided shoe covers.
Check prayer times and avoid visiting during these times out of respect.
Bring water and snacks, as there are limited options inside the Citadel.

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Getting There

Public Transport

From central Cairo, take the Metro to El-Sayeda Zeinab station. From there, hop in a taxi or microbus to the Citadel. Microbus fare is approximately 2-3 EGP per person. A taxi should cost around 10-15 EGP. Be prepared for a short uphill walk from the Citadel entrance to the mosque.
Taxi/Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber or Careem are readily available throughout Cairo. A ride from downtown Cairo to the Citadel typically costs between 30-50 EGP, depending on traffic and distance. Confirm the fare with the driver or check the app estimate before starting your journey. Note that there may be an additional fee for entering the Citadel area.
Walking

If you are already exploring Islamic Cairo, you can walk to the Citadel. Be prepared for an uphill walk. From the Citadel entrance, it's a further short walk to the mosque. This option is free, but can be tiring in the Cairo heat.

Discover more about Mohamed Ali mosque

The Mosque of Muhammad Ali stands as a testament to Ottoman influence in Egypt and the ambition of its commissioner. Muhammad Ali Pasha, considered the founder of modern Egypt, ordered its construction in 1830. The mosque, built to commemorate his son Tusun Pasha, who died in 1816, was designed to be the state mosque of a newly modernized Egypt.Located within the Citadel of Saladin, the mosque occupies the highest point, offering commanding views of Cairo. Its design, inspired by the Sultan Ahmed Mosque in Istanbul, Turkey, showcases a departure from traditional Cairene architecture, embracing an Ottoman style. The use of limestone and alabaster gives the mosque its distinctive appearance, leading to its nickname, the Alabaster Mosque.The mosque features a large central dome surrounded by smaller domes and towering minarets, which reach 84 meters, the highest in Egypt. The interior is adorned with intricate details, including stained glass windows, marble floors, and Islamic calligraphy. The courtyard contains a unique copper clock tower, a gift from Louis Philippe of France in 1845. Muhammad Ali Pasha was buried in a Carrara marble tomb in the mosque's courtyard. His remains were moved from Hosh al-Basha in 1857.Visitors should dress modestly, covering shoulders, knees, and hair (for women). The mosque is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, but non-Muslims have restricted access to the main prayer hall.