Riyadh, a modern city filled with numerous skyscrapers and infrastructure, has its fair share of historical and cultural marvels. Whether you are interested in history, culture and spirituality or just want to experience the daily bustling life of the city, Riyadh has got something for you. The town always impresses with its history, architecture, and rich heritage through its museums, religious sites, villages, etc. Religion is a big part of Riyadh’s everyday life. It is evident with its numerous mosques scattered around the city and the sound of prayer echoing through the street.
Whether you are interested in history, culture and spirituality or just want to experience the daily bustling life of the city, Riyadh has got something for you. Here, Thrillark will take you on a journey to visit some old and secret places where you will learn about deep-rooted traditions and how they are reflected through the architecture and design of these religious sites. Join us in our exploration of faith and discover the things to do in Saudi Arabia. Go beyond the ordinary and immerse yourself in a profound feeling of spirituality.
King Khalid Grand Mosque
The King Khalid Grand Mosque is often called the spiritual beacon revered for its role in uniting the community. Inspired by the mosaics and Byzantine craftsmanship, the divine sanctuary boasts impressive and distinctive architecture, featuring a magnificent dome, intricate glass ceiling accents, and much more. Inside, the beauty continues to be unleashed with the Quranic illustration on the walls, reflecting the rich tradition and culture of the region. The best time to visit the mosque is during the cooler months of November to March when the weather is milder and more comfortable for outdoor sightseeing.
If you are religious or not, visiting the King Khalid Grand Mosque will be a truly awe-inspiring moment that allows you to appreciate the artistry and immerse yourself in the spiritual ambience of the place. Beyond its architectural and spiritual significance, the mosque stands as a symbol of Arabic artistry and the cultural excellence of Riyadh.
- Location: Umm Al-Hamam Street, Al-Gharbi, Riyadh.
- Timing: Open daily 24 hours.
Imam Turki Bin Abdulla Mosque
The Imam Turki Bin Abdulla Mosque is a prominent religious landmark built during Imam Turki Bin Abdulla’s reign. It is considered Saudi Arabia’s largest mosque and can hold up to 17,000 people simultaneously. Made in the early years of AD, the mosque was rebuilt and reopened in January 1993. Boated with intricate architecture, the divine Santyaru seamlessly blends modern aesthetics with traditional Islamic elements, showcasing elegant domes and detailed calligraphy. The exterior and upper interior are made of brown Arriyadh limestone, which glows during the night when illuminated. Additionally, during Ramadan and Eid, the Al Saud family visits the mosque, which is of profound religious importance. With its traditional ambience and architecture, the Imam Turki Bin Abdulla Mosque is a pivotal place for worship and community gatherings.
- Location: Al-Imam Turki Ibn Abd Allah Ibn Muhammad, Ad Dirah, Riyadh.
- Timing: Open 24 hours daily.
Al Rajhi Grand Mosque
Al Rajhi Grand Mosque is one of Riyadh’s most prominent workshop places, raking among Saudi Arabia’s top attractions and attracting millions of people annually. As it is situated in the capital city, the mosque has significant religious importance throughout the kingdom. With its stunning architecture and dome, the mosque could accommodate up to 18,000 men’s and 2,500 women’s halls. The OSU is well maintained and has become a focal point for community gatherings, especially Ramadan and Eid. During Fridays, the prayers are translated onto seven large screens, which display the subtitles on a large digital screen for the pilgrims.
- Location: Al Akheyar, Al Jazirah Riyadh.
- Timing: Daily from 4 am to 8 pm.
Princess Latifa Bint Sultan Mosque
The Princess Latifa Bint Sultan Mosque is one of the most famous attractions and the largest worship sanctuary in the world. The place is not just a mosque; it’s a living. Adorned with a stunning interior and intricate Islamic design, the atmosphere will make you calm and chill. The inside walls had Quranic verses decorated with tremendous cravings and embellishments. The flooring is done with the most exquisite and opulent carpet. The mosque is famous for its well-lit prayer hall and interiors made of a gorgeous chandelier hanging from the main hall’s ceiling. This is the spot if you want to visit a mosque offering a spiritual and cosy ambience simultaneously.
- Location: Al Takhassousi, Al Rahmaniyah District.
- Timing: Open 24 hours daily.
Othman Ibn Affan Mosque
Othman Ibn Affan Mosque is one of the most magnificent and most visited religious sites in the UAE, drawing millions of visitors every year to witness the historical significance of the architectural splendour. Named after Uthman Ibn Affan, the third caliph of Islam, the mosque symbolises the peaceful dissemination of Islamic religion in the UAE. Located in the bustling city of Sharjah, the mosque blends traditional Islamic architecture and modern principles to create a stunning structure designed with chandeliers crafted in Morocco ornate Islamic patterns and illuminated Islamic calligraphy on the ceilings that depict Arabic history. The spacious hall of the grand mosque can comfortably hold around 10,000 worshippers. Beyond being a cultural and religious institution, the mosque also acts as a centre for various social and cultural activities, like educational programmes, Quranic memorisation classes, and spiritual lectures.
- Location: Uthman Ibn Affan Road, Riyadh.
- Timing: The mosque is open 24 hours every day.
- Visitors are not allowed to enter during Friday noon from 12:00 pm to 1:30 pm.
Essential information
- While visiting religious sites, you are supposed to dress modestly.
- Cover your shoulders and knees. For women, a hair scarf is necessary.
- Be mindful of the local customs and traditions.
- Avoid public displays of affection and refrain from loud behavior.
- Always check signs indicating photographic restriction
- You are supposed to remove your shoes before entering the mosque.
- Avoid entering the Mosque during prayer time, especially on Fridays.
- Consider joining guided tours for more insightful and enjoyable tours.
- Apply sunscreen, stay hydrated due to the extreme hot climate of Riyadh.
Embrace Riyadh’s Spiritual Splendor
Riyadh stands out not only for modern designs but also for being renowned as a pilgrimage destination comprised of numerous breathtaking mosques and showcasing a blend of traditional and modern elements that rank among the top attractions in Saudi Arabia. As the perfect spot for peaceful prayer, these secret structures with stunning architecture also transport us to the spiritual realm of tranquility and devotion. For an unforgettable experience in Riyadh, we strongly encourage you to explore these stunning marvels. Accomplishing your wish in these sacred spots will be an unforgettable and enriching activity in Saudi Arabia.
FAQs on Sacred Sites of Riyadh
What is the biggest mosque in Riyadh?
Imam Turki bin Abdullah Mosque, also known as the Grand Mosque of Riyadh, is a congregational mosque in the ad-Dirah neighborhood of Riyadh and the largest mosque in Riyadh.
What is the capacity of Al Rajhi mosque, Riyadh?
The capacity of Al Rajhi mosque Riyadh is staggering 18,000 people at a time and 2, 500 in the women’s hall. The mosque holds two libraries, forensic science courses, and an automated utilities system.
Which mosque restricts entry to non-Muslims in Saudi Arabia?
The only mosques non-Muslims are not allowed to visit are those in Makkah and Medina, Islam’s holiest cities.
Which is the most important mosque in Riyadh?
Imam Turki bin Abdullah Mosque.
What is the largest mosque in Saudi Arabia?
Masjid al-Haram is the largest mosque in Saudi Arabia, with a capacity of 2.5 million worshippers.
