Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque introduces entry fee to improve visitor experience and management

Muscat : According to the Centre, the new fee is part of efforts to improve visitor management and regulate entry to the mosque, which is one of the most prominent tourist attractions in Oman.

In a statement issued, the Centre explained that the move was necessary due to the increasing number of visitors, particularly during peak tourist seasons. The mosque, a significant religious and cultural landmark, has been struggling to accommodate the growing footfall while maintaining its sanctity and ensuring a seamless visitor experience.

To address the challenge of managing large crowds while preserving the mosque’s cultural and historical integrity, the administration has collaborated with the private sector. The new partnership allows small and medium-sized businesses to compete for opportunities to provide services at the mosque, focusing on enhancing the visitor experience. This includes maintaining modest dress codes, organizing visitor traffic, and providing guided tours.

As part of these improvements, 35 Omani guides proficient in multiple languages have been hired to lead visitors through a structured and informative program. These changes aim to provide a more organized, respectful, and educational experience for all visitors.

Importantly, the Centre emphasized that the mosque remains open to Muslims for the five daily prayers, and access to its cultural, scientific, and religious facilities continues to be free of charge.