Al Fateh Grand Mosque | Barbar

Al Fateh Grand Mosque is a large Islamic place of worship located in the city of Barbar, Bahrain. It is one of the largest mosques in the world.

Visual Characteristics

The mosque is constructed primarily from Italian marble and features a large central dome made of fiberglass. The main prayer hall can accommodate over 7,000 worshippers. The architecture incorporates traditional Islamic design elements with modern construction techniques. The exterior is white, with intricate geometric patterns visible on some surfaces. The minaret stands at 70 meters tall.

Location & Access Logistics

Al Fateh Grand Mosque is situated approximately 10 kilometers southwest of Manama, the capital city. Access is via Sheikh Salman Highway. Ample parking is available on-site for visitors. Public bus routes serving the area include lines 10 and 12, with stops within a 500-meter walk of the mosque entrance.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of Al Fateh Grand Mosque began in 1984 and was completed in 1987. It was commissioned by Sheikh Isa ibn Salman Al Khalifa, the former Emir of Bahrain. The mosque was built on land reclaimed from the sea and its original purpose was to serve as a prominent religious and cultural center for the nation.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can participate in guided tours of the mosque, which are offered daily. These tours provide information on Islamic architecture and culture. Photography is permitted in designated areas. The mosque also houses a library containing religious texts and historical documents.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available for visitors. Shaded areas are provided within the mosque complex. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally strong within the vicinity. No food vendors are located directly on the mosque premises, but options are available in nearby commercial areas.

Best Time to Visit

For optimal lighting for photography, early morning or late afternoon is recommended. The best months for visiting are generally from October to April, when temperatures are cooler. No specific tide requirements apply.

Facts & Legends

The fiberglass dome of Al Fateh Grand Mosque is one of the largest in the world, weighing approximately 60 tons. The mosque's construction utilized materials sourced from various countries, including Italy, India, and China.

Nearby Landmarks

• Bahrain National Museum (2.5km Northeast)
• Bab Al Bahrain (3.0km Northeast)
• Qal'at al-Bahrain (Bahrain Fort) (4.0km Northwest)
• Adliya (restaurant district) (3.5km East)