Faisal Mosque Islamabad – All You Need To Know

Faisal Mosque is one of the most attractive architectural designs in the city. Even though it is not a dedicated tourist destination, many travelers from everywhere visit the Faisal Mosque. Since it is a religious structure, there is no entrance ticket or fee. Everybody is welcome to visit the Mosque as long as they adhere to the guidelines before entering the sacred place. Here are some of the essential rules before visiting Faisal Mosque.

History About Faisal Masjid Islamabad

The history of the majestic Faisal Mosque dates back to 1966 when the late King of Saudi Arabia, Faisal Bin Abdul Aziz, visited Pakistan and proposed constructing a mosque in the beautiful green city surrounded by The Margala Hills. After three years of a long thought process, in 1969, an international competition was organized to gather some designs for the Mosque. Forty-three unique proposals were submitted by Architects coming from 17 different countries. After much scrutiny and inquiry, a Turkish architect, Vedat Dalokav, stood first in the competition. His unique grandeur design was approved for the largest Mosque in the world at that time.

The government of Pakistan allotted six acres of land at the foothills of the Merlin National Park.

Construction of the Mosque began in 1976 and was led by Azim Khan. After getting funds from the Government of Saudi Arabia, the National Construction of Pakistan started to work. Back in the 1970s, it cost over 130 million Saudi Riyals, which would equal 120 million US dollars today. King Faisal Bin Abdul Aziz was the main protagonist behind the funding and construction of this beautiful structure. To honor his memory, the Mosque and the road leading to it are named after him. King Faisal was assassinated in 1975.

King Faisal’s successor King Khalid Bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud, laid the foundation of the Mosque in October 1976.

The construction of the Faisal Mosque was finally completed in 1986. However, initially, it invited much criticism from staunch Muslims who could not deal with the Mosque’s unconventional design, especially the lack of a Dome structure. It is considered a must-have for any mosque. Once the Mosque was completed, the criticism started to die as abruptly as it started. The pearl-white Mosque perfectly combines the lush green Margalla hills. Worshipers gathered here on June 18, 1988, for the first prayer to be held in the Mosque. Since then, it has been open to the public, and everyone is welcome to join the prayers conducted five times daily.

The Architecture of Faisal Masjid Islamabad

As mentioned earlier, the most striking feature of the Shah Faisal Mosque is that it lacks traditional arches and domes, which are present in most other prominent mosques worldwide.

The exceptional architectural design of the Faisal Mosque makes it quite popular and appealing. The historic landmark has a triangular design inspired by a Bedouin tent that stands tall in the middle of a desert. Faisal Mosque is constructed on a total area of 10 canals and can accommodate up to 300 thousand people at a time. The interior of the Mosque is as spectacular as the exterior. Interestingly unlike many other mosques in Pakistan, Faisal Mosque has a separate hall for women. It also has a small gift shop, lecture hall, library, cafe, museum, and a large ablution area. Quaid e Azam Auditorium is used for conducting lectures and religious conferences.

In 1988, the former President of Pakistan, General Muhammad Zia-Ul-Haq, died and was given a place adjacent to the Mosque. His funeral was also arranged in the Faisal Mosque, considered one of the large funeral congregations since the inception of Pakistan.

The extraordinary architecture and design of the Mosque make it an example of contemporary Islamic architecture. The Mosque is usually straightforward and cluttered, but it is still serene and peaceful.

Attractions Offered by Faisal Masjid for Visitors

Faisal Mosque has become a top tourist destination for locals and foreigners. It mostly remains full, so don’t look for less crowded times. Here are the top-notch features that make Faisal Mosque so spectacular.

Unusual Design of Faisal Mosque

Contradicting the conventional Southeastern Islamic architecture, the Mosque has an unusual design infused with contemporary lines and traditional Arab touch. Instead of a circle, it is a large triangular prayer hall with four minarets. The minarets have a Turkish touch as they are long and thin, like a pencil. The shape of Faisal Mosque is a combination of the shape of the Kaaba in Mecca and a conventional tent surrounded by Turkish architecture at four corners. The architect explained the design to be inspired by the Kaaba’s geometry, proportion, and spirit, the most sacred place on earth for Muslims.

The entrance to the Faisal Mosque is set from the East, and there is a courtyard with access at the front of the prayer hall. Initially, Islamic International University was set up in the central Courtyard, but now it is relocated to a new campus in Islamabad. To make the interior of the Mosque equally beautiful, it is covered with white marble, which is also decorated with calligraphy and mosaics by famous Pakistani artists, including Sadequain. The Spectacular Turkish-style chandelier will grab your attention as soon as you enter the main hall. Kalima is written on the west wall using mosaic patterns in Kufic script.

Visiting Faisal Mosque

Visitors are welcome to the Mosque at almost any time. However, non-Muslims are expected to avoid visiting on Fridays and prayer times since it is a worship area. No one can enter the Mosque without taking off their shoes. Counters are present at the entrance, where you can leave your shoes and proceed to the ablution area.

Also, remember to dress modestly before coming to any mosque. Women should come with their heads covered and fully clothed.

Perfect Place of Prayer at Faisal Mosque

Muslims must pray and prostrate to Allah several times a day. Praying is one of the essential pillars of the faith. Muslims can pray at home or anywhere clean, but coming to a mosque to offer prayers doubles the reward and strengthens your confidence and belief in God.

What else would be better to offer prayers than in a mosque where thousands of people gather five times a day!!

Huge Building- A Lot of Space

Faisal Mosque remained the world’s largest Mosque for quite some time. It can accommodate 300 thousand worshippers at a time. The main areas, including the inner hall and the Courtyards, can have up to 74000 people. The beautiful grounds around the park are also used for prayers on special religious occasions and Friday prayers. These grounds can hold up to 200,000 people.

Women Have a Different Entrance at Faisal Mosque

Women have separate access to the main hall. It is enclosed following the protocols of a place where women can pray.

Topography of Faisal Mosque

Faisal Mosque is present at the foot of lush green and majestic Margalla hills. The background plays a significant role in the overall picture of the appearance of the Faisal Mosque. This unique structure can be seen from miles away since it is already constructed on heightened ground. Faisal Mosque faces the city and looks even more appealing because of the cool weather of the town, which matches the vibe. No wonder why this design was selected out of 43 proposals. Faisal Avenue leads straight to the Mosque, making it easily accessible so anyone can visit the Mosque easily.

Islamic Art at Faisal Mosque

Faisal Mosque is an enchanting attraction for tourists from around the world. Even though it has modern architecture and is popular among the masses for its elegance, serenity, and design, it is still a religious site closely associated with the Muslim faith and beliefs. The Mosque is filled with Islamic art to bloom the essence of the religion. Every inch of the Mosque accurately depicts the religion. Revelations from the Quran are engraved in several places in the Mosque. Beautiful lanterns, chandeliers, carpets, marble, and mosaics are used to decorate it. However, considering how simplicity is praised in Islam, the interior of the Mosque is not too grand. It’s eye-catching and incredible but still gives a reflection of the beliefs of Muslims. Classic and contemporary Islamic architecture inspired the design of the Faisal Mosque.

Faisal Masjid Entrance Tickets

There is no entrance ticket to visit the Faisal Mosque. But if you want to have in-depth knowledge about this magnificent structure, book a guided tour. Your guide will explain the tiny details about the fantastic architecture and Islamic art displayed in the Mosque.

Faisal Masjid Timings

Like any other mosque or prayer area, Faisal Mosque is open from dawn to dusk. People gather in the Mosque before the sun comes out to pray Fajr. The Mosque can be visited until the day’s last prayer: Isha. During Ramadan, people can stay in the Mosque at night for additional blessings and salutations.

Location & Contact Info

Shah Faisal Ave, E-8, Islamabad, Islamabad Capital Territory 44000.

The Faisal Mosque administration can be contacted at (051) 2854860.

Conclusion

Faisal Mosque is one of the most famous architectural wonders of the country. It is located in Islamabad at the foot of the Margala national park. It is the largest Mosque in South Asia and the world’s eighth Mosque. Faisal Mosque remained the world’s largest between 1986 and 1993.

The project was an idea of the late King Faisal Bin Abdul Aziz, who also financed the project. Faisal Mosque is a Marvel selected from 43 designs. Even though it is not a conventional Mosque with a dome but resembles a Bedouin tent, and sleek Turkish minarets, they are slender and pencil-shaped, with the Crescent on the top of each. Another Crescent is installed on the top of the main hall.

It is the most popular tourist destination in Islamabad, visited by millions of people annually. Guided tours are also offered to those interested in the history and architecture of the Mosque.

Make sure to dress conservatively before entering the Mosque.

FAQs

Why is Faisal Masjid famous?

Faisal Mosque is located in an elevated area against the beautiful backdrop of the Merlin National Park. It is popular because it remained the world’s largest Mosque from 1986 to 1993 until a mosque in Morocco finally overtook it. Faisal Mosque is famous for its incredible and unique architecture and serene outlook.

Who is buried in the Faisal Mosque?

No one is concealed inside the Faisal Mosque. However, General Zia ul Haq, the president and chief of the Army staff of Pakistan, is buried adjacent to the Shah Faisal Mosque. The Government of Pakistan held a state funeral and buried the general with military Honours after he died in a plane crash. His tomb is also crafted with white marble.

Who is the owner of Faisal Mosque?

Faisal Mosque is a government-owned asset that was erected with the funding allotted by the Saudi government. King Shah Faisal bin Abdul Aziz was the man behind the idea. Chosen by President Marshal Ayub Khan and the project was completed with the cooperation of the Saudi and Pakistani governments.

Who is Faisal Mosque named after?

The Mosque is named after King Faisal Bin Abdul Aziz of Saudi Arabia. He supported the idea of making the largest Mosque in the world in Islamabad and also financed the project. Faisal Mosque is now conceived as the National Mosque of Pakistan since it is undoubtedly one of the most famous landmarks in the country.

that offers a glimpse into the raw beauty of the Himalayas.