Doha, Qatar: With the participation of nearly 80 people, the Mosque Visit Programme was organised by the Sheikh Abdullah bin Zaid Al Mahmoud Islamic Cultural Center during the month of May.
The programme included visits to several mosques, among them the Imam Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab Mosque, the Education City Mosque, and the Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim bin Jaber Al Thani Mosque. The initiative aims to introduce English-, Russian-, and Spanish-speaking communities, each through dedicated tours, to mosques, their diverse architectural styles, and their connection to Islamic culture.
The Center is keen to select mosques that showcase a variety of architectural designs. The Imam Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab Mosque reflects the local Qatari architectural style through its white color scheme, floral and geometric ornamentation, wooden doors reinforced with traditional copper studs, as well as locally inspired minarets and domes. The mosque also features an open courtyard and carefully designed windows that allow natural light to enter the prayer hall in a balanced manner.
In contrast, the Education City Mosque represents contemporary trends in Islamic architecture and design. Its two minarets symbolize pens, while the overall form of the mosque resembles an inkwell. The mosque is rich in calligraphic decorations and flowing architectural patterns that maximize the use of space. Its calm color palette creates an atmosphere of tranquility and serenity.
Meanwhile, the Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim bin Jaber Al Thani Mosque reflects Ottoman architectural influences through its minarets, layered domes, and intricate geometric and floral motifs. The use of stained glass adds a distinctive aesthetic touch to the interior, while Arabic calligraphy is incorporated as a decorative artistic element throughout the mosque.
