Al-Azhar Mosque
Cairo's historic Al-Azhar Mosque, a 10th-century marvel and one of the world's oldest universities, blending faith and learning.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Al-Azhar Mosque
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Cairo's historic Al-Azhar Mosque, a 10th-century marvel and one of the world's oldest universities, blending faith and learning.
"A must visit historical mosque at the heart Cairo, combining spiritual importance with stunning architecture."
🧥 Modesty Garments Provided
Don't worry about attire; outer garments for modesty are often provided free near the entrance.
🕌 Friday Prayer Closure
The mosque closes for Friday prayers around 12-2 PM. Plan your visit outside these hours.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Grand Courtyard
Central area
Experience the vastness and tranquility of this historic space, a hub for prayer and learning.

Intricate Architecture
Throughout the mosque
Admire elegant arches, white marble floors, and the stunning historical Islamic design.

Center of Islamic Learning
University grounds
Feel the legacy of one of the world's oldest universities, a beacon of Islamic knowledge.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dress Modestly, Respectfully
Friday Prayer Closures
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧥 Modesty Garments Provided
Don't worry about attire; outer garments for modesty are often provided free near the entrance.
🕌 Friday Prayer Closure
The mosque closes for Friday prayers around 12-2 PM. Plan your visit outside these hours.
🚶♀️ Guided Tours Available
Many visitors find helpful guides within the mosque who can show you around.
📹 Video Restrictions
Be aware that security may restrict video recording inside the mosque.
Tips
from all over the internet
🧥 Modesty Garments Provided
Don't worry about attire; outer garments for modesty are often provided free near the entrance.
🕌 Friday Prayer Closure
The mosque closes for Friday prayers around 12-2 PM. Plan your visit outside these hours.
🚶♀️ Guided Tours Available
Many visitors find helpful guides within the mosque who can show you around.
📹 Video Restrictions
Be aware that security may restrict video recording inside the mosque.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Al-Azhar Mosque is lauded as a must-visit historical and spiritual gem in Cairo, praised for its stunning Islamic architecture and its role as a center of learning. Visitors appreciate the free modesty garments and the welcoming atmosphere for all faiths. However, some note that bathroom facilities could be better maintained and video recording may be restricted.
"Mosque located in old part of cairo, across from market.
Easy to get too, lots of hustle n bustle.
Outer garments for mosque modesty provided free of charge near entrance.
Must visit"
Sadi A
"The mosque’s ambiance is truly incredible. It’s beautifully designed, spacious, and serves its purpose throughout the day with various gatherings and events. May Allah bless everyone who contributed to making this possible."
Bayram Ayyildiz
"It’s historical and islamic place and university
The mosque is a true gem in the heart of Islamic Cairo, Al-Azhar Mosque is not only one of the city’s most beautiful mosques but also one of the oldest universities in the world. Built in 970 AD.
It also combines spiritual importance with stunning architecture—courtyards, white marble floors, elegant arches"
Didi Ibrahim
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Al-Azhar Mosque is located in the historic Islamic core of Cairo. It's easily accessible by taxi or ride-sharing services. Many visitors combine a trip here with nearby attractions like Khan el-Khalili bazaar.
Yes, it's a prominent landmark in old Cairo. You'll find it across from a market, and the hustle and bustle of the area make it noticeable.
Absolutely! Al-Azhar Mosque welcomes visitors of all faiths. They provide outer garments for modesty if needed, ensuring everyone can visit respectfully.
Weekday mornings are generally less crowded, offering a more peaceful experience. Avoid Friday prayer times (around 12-2 PM) as the mosque will be closed.
Parking in the historic center of Cairo can be challenging. It's often easier to use taxis or ride-sharing services and be dropped off nearby.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Al-Azhar Mosque is generally free for prayer and visiting. However, donations are appreciated to help with its upkeep.
Al-Azhar Mosque is open for visitors outside of prayer times. It's important to note it will be closed for Friday prayers from approximately 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM.
Yes, modest dress is required. This means covering shoulders and knees. Outer garments are provided for visitors who need them.
While non-Muslims are welcome to visit and observe, participating in prayer services is typically reserved for Muslims. You can still experience the spiritual atmosphere.
There isn't a specific 'tourist time,' but visiting during non-prayer hours on weekdays will offer the best experience.
🎫 🕌 Onsite Experience
You can admire the grand courtyard, intricate Islamic architecture with elegant arches and marble floors, and feel the historical significance as one of the world's oldest universities.
The mosque's architecture and historical ambiance make it very photogenic. However, be mindful of potential restrictions on video recording.
Photography is generally allowed, but some visitors have reported being stopped by security from making videos. It's best to be discreet and respectful.
It's one of the oldest mosques in the Islamic world, founded in 970 AD, and has been a major center for Islamic learning and jurisprudence for centuries.
Yes, there are facilities available. Some reviews mention that the bathroom areas can be wet due to wudu (ablution) practices.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the mosque is located in an area with many food stalls and restaurants, especially near the Khan el-Khalili bazaar.
Eating is generally not permitted inside the prayer halls. However, during Ramadan, large iftar meals are distributed for foreign students.
You'll find traditional Egyptian street food and local cuisine in the surrounding markets and eateries.
📸 📸 Photography
The grand courtyard, intricate archways, and the minarets offer excellent photographic opportunities. Capture the scale and the details.
While photos are generally allowed, some visitors have encountered restrictions on video recording. Be mindful of security personnel and their instructions.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive courtyards, while a prime lens can be useful for details. Consider a camera that performs well in low light for interior shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🕌 Religious Visitors
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Legacy of Islamic Scholarship
Visiting Al-Azhar offers a unique opportunity to feel the weight of history and witness a living tradition of scholarship. You can observe students attending classes and immerse yourself in an atmosphere dedicated to knowledge and faith. The sheer scale and enduring presence of Al-Azhar underscore its role as a global center for Islamic studies.
Many students dream of studying here, drawn by its prestigious reputation and the opportunity to learn in a historically rich environment. The university continues to play a significant role in shaping Islamic thought and education today, making a visit to the mosque a journey into a profound cultural and religious heritage.
Navigating Al-Azhar Mosque as a Visitor
Be aware of Friday prayer times. The mosque will be closed to visitors from approximately 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM on Fridays for Jumu'ah prayers. Planning your visit outside these hours is crucial to avoid disappointment. While the mosque is generally welcoming, some visitors have noted that security may restrict video recording, so it's advisable to be discreet with your camera.
Many visitors find that local guides or mosque attendees are happy to offer assistance and guidance, helping you navigate the complex and understand its significance. The mosque grounds are clean, and the ambiance is described as incredible and spiritual, making it a must-visit historical site in Cairo.
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