Doha, Qatar: The Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zaid Al Mahmoud Islamic Cultural Centre, affiliated with the Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs, continued its educational and outreach efforts during May through its “Mosque Tourism” programme, welcoming nearly 70 visitors from English-, Russian-, and Spanish-speaking communities.
The initiative forms part of the ministry’s broader efforts to introduce Islam and its civilisational values while strengthening cultural engagement with visitors and expatriate communities residing in Qatar.
The programme reflects the ministry’s mission to familiarize diverse communities with Islamic landmarks across the country by showcasing mosques as spiritual, cultural, and architectural beacons. Through guided tours, participants gain insight into the religious significance and architectural beauty of Qatar’s mosques, highlighting the richness and diversity of Islamic architecture in the country.
The visits included some of Qatar’s most prominent mosques, notably the Imam Muhammad bin Abdul Wahhab Mosque, Education City Mosque, and Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim bin Jaber Al Thani Mosque in The Pearl. Participants were introduced to the distinctive architectural features of each mosque and learned about their religious, cultural, and societal importance.
The centre carefully selects mosques representing different architectural styles to provide visitors with a comprehensive view of the diversity and aesthetic appeal of Islamic architecture in Qatar.
At the Imam Muhammad bin Abdul Wahhab Mosque, visitors explored traditional Qatari architectural elements, including its white exterior, geometric and floral motifs, wooden doors reinforced with traditional brass studs, and minarets and domes inspired by the local environment. The mosque’s design also incorporates windows that allow natural light to enter the prayer hall in a balanced and harmonious manner.
The Education City Mosque offered participants a contemporary interpretation of Islamic architecture. Its twin minarets symbolize pens, while the overall design draws inspiration from an inkpot. The mosque features elegant calligraphic decorations, flowing architectural lines, efficient use of space, and calming color schemes that create an atmosphere of serenity and reflection.
Meanwhile, the Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim bin Jaber Al Thani Mosque showcases a distinct Ottoman architectural style, characterized by its towering minarets, layered domes, intricate geometric and floral ornamentation, stained glass features, and Arabic calligraphy that enhances its visual appeal.
Through the Mosque Tourism programme, the Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs continues to utilize cultural and educational activities to raise awareness about Islam among expatriate communities, promote the values of mutual understanding and coexistence, and highlight the civilisational significance of mosques in Qatar. The initiative underscores the ministry’s commitment to serving society and engaging with diverse communities in their own languages and cultural contexts.
