Zawawi Mosque, Muscat

The Zawawi Mosque, situated in Muscat, close to the Natural History Museum, holds great significance as a symbol of faith and generosity bestowed upon the Omani people by the Zawawi family. Erected in memory of Abdul-Mun'im Al-Zawawi by his son, Omar Zawawi, the mosque was inaugurated in 1985 on a spacious plot, emphasizing its magnificence. It embodies Islamic architectural heritage, featuring a remarkable golden dome crafted from pink marble adorned with 22-carat gold leaf, and a towering minaret of approximately 45 meters height, serving as a spiritual landmark.

Arabic calligraphy graces the mosque's exterior, while inside, the entire Qur'an is engraved on metal plates, highlighting its spiritual and cultural importance. Large wooden doors with brass carvings lead to separate prayer halls for men and women, ensuring a respectful worship environment.

Distinctive arched gateways and triangular windows, uncommon in Islamic and Omani architecture, lend the mosque a unique character. It also provides accommodation for special guests, showcasing its role in hospitality and community service.

The mosque's design incorporates open courtyards with inverted lotus-shaped domes for ablution and a tranquil garden filled with fountains, bougainvillea, and evergreen casuarina trees, offering visitors and worshippers a serene space for reflection.

The Zawawi Mosque not only serves as a place of worship but also stands as a testament to Oman's cultural heritage, architectural prowess, and the enduring legacy of faith and philanthropy of the Zawawi family.