King Abdullah Mosque Amman

Completed in 1989 as a memorial by the late King Hussein to his grandfather, this blue-domed landmark can house up to 7000 worshippers, with a further 3000 in the courtyard. There is also a small women’s section for 500 worshippers and a much smaller royal enclosure. The cavernous, octagonal prayer hall is capped by a magnificent blue dome 35m in diameter, decorated with Quranic inscriptions. This is the only mosque in Amman that openly welcomes non-Muslim visitors. The Islamic Museum inside the mosque houses a small collection of photographs and personal effects of King Abdullah I. Shards of ancient pottery are also on display together with coins and stone engravings.A Friday visit may be possible if you avoid prayer time, but call ahead to be sure. Women are required to cover their hair – headscarves are available at the entrance to the mosque together with abayas (black full-length dress) to cover bare arms, legs or jeans.

Shoes must be removed before entering the prayer hall.