Al Fateh Mosque top spot to visit in Bahrain: Tripadvisor

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Tripadvisor, a popular online travel website, has named Ahmed Al-Fateh Islamic Centre as the most prominent landmark in Bahrain to visit for the sixth consecutive year in a row.

The rating is as per user reviews and ratings gathered on the interactive website. “One of the biggest mosques in the world. Here, we’ll gain a deeper insight into the Arabic culture and admire the beautiful Kufic calligraphy and fibreglass dome that stand testimony of its greatness,” writes Tripadvisor about the mosque. One of the more than 1000 reviews on the website reads: “An excellent and welcoming insight into Islam, I was afforded kindness and generosity by everyone I came into contact with.”

“Lovely architecture of the Mosque. It’s an icon of Bahrain. it’s one of the must-see places in Manama, so don't miss it,” reads another review.

97,000 virtual visits in 2021

Official statistics say the centre in 2021 received more than 3,000 visitors from all over the world.

In line with the directives of the Ministry and the recommendations of the National Medial Taskforce for addressing the Coronavirus pandemic, the religious guidance group at the centre carried out virtual visits for pilgrims during 2021, following cancellations of in-person visits. Last year, the centre carried out 97,0000 virtual visits for travellers from countries around the world.

On the progress of the study of Holy Quran Sciences, the centre said it currently has 550 students. In 2021, classes were through Microsoft teams and Zoom programmes. The Ahmed Al-Fateh Mosque is the largest in Bahrain and one of the largest and most luxurious mosques around the world for its Islamic architectural style.

It can accommodate more than 7,000 worshipers. The mosque consists of three main sections: the men’s chapel, the women’s chapel, and the great courtyard. It has a dome built of pure fibreglass, weighing more than 60 tons, and is among the largest made of fibreglass. Illuminations and chandeliers give the main prayer hall a distinctive shape. The doors are of Indian teak. Inscriptions on the walls are in Kufic Arabic calligraphy. The centre has a religious institute and a school for memorizing and teaching Holy Quran.