8 Most Beautiful Mosques to Visit in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia, home to the holiest sites in the world for Muslims—Makkah and Medina—is the top travel destination for Muslims worldwide. Every year, millions of people journey to the sacred cities to perform the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages. Umrah, also known as the minor pilgrimage, can be performed at any time of the year, unlike Hajj, which must be performed during specific dates in Dhul Hijjah. The Islamic travel agency offers Umrah packages year-round, planning trips conveniently and affordably based on each pilgrim’s preferred time and itinerary.

Many Muslims prefer traveling to Saudi Arabia for the Umrah during winter due to lower crowd levels, affordable flights, budget-friendly accommodation, and pleasant weather. These favorable conditions also make winter the perfect time to explore Saudi Arabia’s religious, historical, and archaeological sites.

Saudi Arabia is home to numerous breathtaking mosques known for their stunning architecture and serene ambiance. If you are planning a trip soon, here are eight beautiful mosques you should not miss:

• Al Rahma Mosque (the Floating Mosque in Jeddah)
• Al Rajhi Grand Mosque, Riyadh
• KAFD Grand Mosque, Riyadh
• Jawatha Mosque, Al Ahsa
• Abdulaziz Abdullah Sharbatly Mosque, Jeddah
• King Saud Mosque, Jeddah
• Al Shafi’i Mosque, Jeddah (Al-Balad)
• King Khalid Grand Mosque, Riyadh

Below is a detailed overview of each mosque to help you plan your visits according to your interests.

1. Al Rahma Mosque, Jeddah

Known as the Floating Mosque, Al Rahma Mosque sits atop white concrete pillars over the Red Sea—making it the world’s first mosque built over water. Since Jeddah is the gateway for many pilgrims performing Hajj and Umrah, this iconic mosque is a popular stop. Its exterior features gleaming white marble, while the interior showcases a magnificent turquoise dome surrounded by 56 colorful windows adorned with Quranic verses. The mosque is open 24/7, and non-Muslims may visit outside prayer times.

2. Al Rajhi Grand Mosque, Riyadh

As the largest mosque in Riyadh, Al Rajhi Grand Mosque is a key Islamic institution in the capital. It accommodates 18,000 worshippers in the men’s hall and 2,500 in the women’s hall. The mosque also houses two libraries, an education center, and a community events space. Friday sermons are translated into seven languages. Though non-Muslims cannot enter, the mosque’s stunning exterior—especially when illuminated at night—is worth admiring.

3. KAFD Grand Mosque, Riyadh

Located in the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD), this mosque was designed by the Saudi-based firm Omrania and features one of the most modern mosque designs of today. Situated on a 10,000-square-meter plot within a sunken urban plaza, it reflects the innovative landscape of KAFD—a leading smart city with world-class offices and hospitality towers. The mosque’s design stands out for its absence of domes and blue crystal windows, giving it a unique contemporary character.

4. Jawatha Mosque, Al Ahsa

Jawatha Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in Saudi Arabia, dating back to the early Islamic era. Its simple sand-colored mudbrick walls give it a fortress-like appearance. The mosque is open 24/7, and non-Muslims may visit outside prayer times.

The Islamic travel agency has already begun offering Umrah 2026 packages, making this an ideal time to book your pilgrimage for next year. Plan your journey with Umrah 2026 packages through the Islamic travel agency for a budget-friendly spiritual trip.

5. Abdulaziz Abdullah Sharbatly Mosque, Jeddah (Al Balad)

This mosque in Jeddah is the world’s first built using 3D-printing technology. Spanning 5,600 square meters, it is part of the National Housing Company’s development portfolio. Open 24/7, the mosque’s design reflects tranquility and modern innovation.

6. King Saud Mosque, Jeddah

Designed by an Egyptian architect, King Saud Mosque is one of Jeddah’s most recognizable landmarks. Beyond its distinctive architectural style, the mosque offers a peaceful environment ideal for performing Salah.

7. Al-Shafi’i Mosque, Jeddah (Al Balad)

Located in Jeddah’s historic old town, the Al Shafi’i Mosque is one of the city’s oldest mosques, showcasing traditional Islamic architecture. Visitors often describe a sense of deep calm upon entering. The mosque remains open 24/7.

8. King Khalid Grand Mosque, Riyadh

Known for its grand architectural design and soothing atmosphere, the King Khalid Grand Mosque is another must-visit site in Riyadh. The best time to visit is during the cooler months from October to March.

When visiting mosques in Saudi Arabia, keep these practical guidelines in mind:

• Dress modestly; women should cover their heads with a hijab before entering.
• Perform wudu before entering the mosque.
• Maintain a calm and respectful demeanor; shouting, smoking, and disruptive behavior are prohibited.
• Avoid walking in front of people who are praying.
• Do not photograph people without their permission.
• Keep mobile devices on silent mode while inside.

Visiting these mosques not only enriches your spiritual journey but also offers a deeper understanding of Saudi Arabia’s cultural and architectural evolution. Each mosque carries its own history, identity, and design elements that reflect different eras of Islamic civilization—from ancient mudbrick structures to groundbreaking modern designs. Whether you are traveling for pilgrimage or leisure, taking the time to explore these sacred spaces can greatly enhance your overall experience.

For pilgrims performing Hajj or Umrah, integrating mosque visits into your itinerary can make your journey even more meaningful. Many travelers find that exploring Islamic heritage sites helps them stay spiritually connected throughout their trip. These visits also provide opportunities for reflection, learning, and immersing oneself in an environment centered around devotion and tranquility.

Beyond religious reasons, these mosques appeal to architecture lovers, history enthusiasts, and travelers who enjoy discovering unique landmarks. Their peaceful courtyards, intricate designs, and serene atmospheres make them ideal spots for contemplation and photography—while always respecting local customs and guidelines.

As Saudi Arabia continues to expand its tourism offerings, the country is becoming increasingly accessible for international visitors. Investing time in planning your visit—whether through an experienced travel agency or personal research—can help ensure a smooth, memorable, and spiritually uplifting journey.

By learning about these remarkable mosques ahead of time, you will be better prepared to appreciate their beauty and significance once you arrive. Whether you are a first-time pilgrim or a returning visitor, exploring the mosques of Saudi Arabia is an experience that leaves a lasting impression and deepens your connection to Islamic history and faith.