Faisal Mosque is the national mosque of Pakistan and, with room for about 300,000 worshippers, the largest mosque in the country. It sits at the foot of the Margalla Hills in Islamabad and is one of the capital’s most visited landmarks. Last checked: October 2026.
Quick answer: is Faisal Mosque the largest mosque in Pakistan?
Yes. Faisal Mosque in Islamabad is generally regarded as the largest mosque in Pakistan, with a capacity of about 300,000 worshippers including the courtyards and grounds. It was the largest mosque in the world from 1986 to 1993. Lahore’s historic Badshahi Mosque is the other great landmark mosque, but Faisal Mosque is larger.
Faisal Mosque quick facts
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | North end of Faisal Avenue, Islamabad, at the foot of the Margalla Hills |
| Architect | Vedat Dalokay, a Turkish architect whose design won an international competition in 1969 |
| Construction | Began in 1976, completed in 1986. First prayer held on 18 June 1988 |
| Capacity | About 300,000 worshippers, including the grounds. The main prayer hall holds about 10,000 |
| Minarets | Four, each 90 m (300 ft) tall, among the tallest in South Asia |
| Area | About 130,000 m² (about 33 acres) |
| Design | Bedouin tent inspired, with eight sided concrete shell roofs and no traditional dome |
| Named after | King Faisal of Saudi Arabia (reigned 1964 to 1975) |
| Entry fee | Not verified; widely reported as free. Confirm at the gate |
History of Faisal Mosque
After an international design competition in 1969, Dalokay’s modern concept was chosen. King Khalid laid the foundation stone in October 1976, and the mosque was completed in 1986. The first prayer was held on 18 June 1988. The mosque and the road leading to it are named after King Faisal of Saudi Arabia, who died in 1975. Reported construction costs vary, so we do not quote a figure.
Design and architecture
The mosque breaks from the domed tradition. Eight sided concrete shells form a tent like roof inspired by a Bedouin tent, and four slender 90 m minarets stand at the corners. Against the Margalla Hills, the white structure is easy to spot from across Islamabad. Our top 5 mosques to visit in Pakistan and mosques in Pakistan guides compare other major mosques.
How to reach Faisal Mosque
The mosque is in Islamabad, a short drive from the city centre, and you can reach it by taxi, ride hailing or private car. We could not confirm current public transport routes or fares, so ask at your hotel. Islamabad International Airport is the nearest airport. For the wider city plan, see our Islamabad travel guide and public transport guide.
Best time to visit
Visit in the late afternoon or around sunset, when the light on the white structure is softest and the heat is lower. Avoid prayer times and Fridays if you want a calm visit. The mosque is also busy during Ramadan and Eid, so expect crowds. See our best time to visit Pakistan for seasons.
Visitor etiquette and dress code
- Dress modestly, covering your arms and legs. Women should cover their heads.
- Remove your shoes before entering. Carry socks, since the ground can be hot or cold.
- Non-Muslim visitors are generally welcome in the courtyard but may not be allowed into the main prayer hall. Rules can change, so follow the guards’ instructions.
- Photography is usually fine in the courtyard but not inside the prayer hall.
Read our what to wear in Pakistan guide for more detail.
What to see nearby
- Pakistan Monument
- The Margalla Hills trails and viewpoints. See hiking trails in Pakistan.
- More attractions in top 10 places to visit in Islamabad.
Where to stay and eat
Islamabad has options for every budget, from guesthouses to international hotels. We have not verified current prices. See best hotels in Islamabad and best restaurants in Islamabad.
Safety and responsible tourism
Respect worshippers, keep your voice low, and do not photograph people praying. Security checks at the entrance are routine, so carry ID and keep bags light. For emergencies, Rescue 1122 and Police 15 are commonly cited national numbers, but please confirm locally.
Frequently asked questions
Which is the largest mosque in Pakistan?
Faisal Mosque in Islamabad, with a capacity of about 300,000 worshippers.
Who designed Faisal Mosque?
Vedat Dalokay, a Turkish architect, whose design won a competition in 1969.
How tall are the minarets?
Each of the four minarets is 90 m (300 ft).
Is there an entry fee?
It is widely reported as free, but confirm at the gate.
Can non-Muslims visit Faisal Mosque?
Visitors are generally welcome in the grounds. Access to the prayer hall may be restricted, so follow the staff’s guidance.
Conclusion
Go in the late afternoon, outside prayer times, and dress modestly. The Margalla Hills trailheads and the Pakistan Monument are both a short drive away.
Sources
Related guides
Rules, timings and conditions change. Confirm the latest information locally before you visit.