Faisal Mosque Visitor Guide
A visitor guide to Islamabad’s Faisal Mosque: its history and striking design, when to visit, the dress code and etiquette, photography and what’s nearby.
Key takeaways
- Faisal Mosque, completed in 1986, was designed by Turkish architect Vedat Dalokay and named after King Faisal of Saudi Arabia.
- Visitors are welcome outside prayer times; dress modestly, and women should cover their hair.
- Avoid Friday midday prayers if you’re sightseeing, and visit at sunset for the best light.
On this page
Faisal Mosque is Islamabad’s most recognisable landmark: a vast white prayer hall shaped like a desert tent, flanked by four needle-thin minarets, set against the green wall of the Margalla Hills. It’s a working mosque and a national symbol, and visitors are welcome with respect.
History and design
The mosque was designed by Turkish architect Vedat Dalokay, whose design won an international competition. Construction began in 1976 and was completed in 1986. Much of the funding came from Saudi Arabia, and the mosque is named after King Faisal bin Abdulaziz.
Its design broke with tradition. Instead of a dome, the main prayer hall rises in eight sloping concrete shells, inspired by a Bedouin tent. Four slender minarets, each around 80 metres tall, stand at the corners of the courtyard. For several years after it opened, it was described as the largest mosque in the world, and it remains one of the largest in South Asia, able to hold tens of thousands of worshippers.
Visiting
| Tip | Details |
|---|---|
| When to go | Outside prayer times; late afternoon and sunset are especially beautiful |
| Avoid | Friday midday prayers and major religious occasions, if you’re sightseeing |
| Dress | Long sleeves and long trousers or skirts; women cover their hair |
| Shoes | Remove them before entering; bring a bag or use the shoe racks |
| Photography | Usually allowed in the courtyard; be discreet and never photograph worshippers without permission |
| Access | Non-Muslim visitors are welcome in the grounds; access to the prayer hall may be limited |
Etiquette
- Speak quietly, and keep phones on silent.
- Don’t walk in front of people praying.
- Follow staff instructions, as areas can be closed at short notice.
- Couples should avoid public displays of affection.
- Children are welcome, but keep them close and calm.
Getting there
The mosque stands at the northern end of Faisal Avenue, at the foot of the hills in the E sectors. Ride-hailing is the easiest way there, and there’s parking nearby. Security checks are common at the entrance.
What’s nearby
- Margalla Hills trails: Trail 6 starts close to the mosque; see our Margalla Hills hiking guide.
- Daman-e-Koh and Pir Sohawa: viewpoints higher in the hills.
- The rest of the city: combine your visit with ideas from our list of things to do in Islamabad.
Frequently asked questions
Can non-Muslims visit Faisal Mosque?
Yes. Visitors of all faiths are welcome in the grounds outside prayer times, provided they dress modestly and behave respectfully.
Is there an entry fee?
Entry has traditionally been free. Donations are welcome.
What should women wear?
Loose clothing covering the arms and legs, and a scarf to cover the hair.
Sources
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