Located in the picturesque old town of Sharm el-Sheikh, the Al Sahaba Mosque is one of Egypt’s most impressive recent architectural landmarks. Opened in 2017, the mosque stands out not only for its grandeur but also for its strategic position along the Red Sea, rising with an enchanting aura like something out of A Thousand and One Nights. Despite being a modern structure, the mosque breathes history and tradition, blending architectural styles from past eras, like the Ottoman Empire, with the pulsating energy of an international tourist hotspot. With its majestic minarets that seem to reach the sky alongside intricate ornamentation, Al Sahaba is not only a place of worship but also a masterpiece of contemporary Islamic art. Since its construction, Al Sahaba has become not only a spiritual gathering place but also a must see for those wanting to learn more about Islamic culture and faith while holidaying in this iconic Egyptian location.
History of the Mosque: a dream come true in Sinai
Though the Al Sahaba Mosque is a recent addition to the architectural scene in Sharm el-Sheikh, it was created as a tribute to Egypt’s rich Islamic heritage. Although Sharm el-Sheikh has been a major tourist destination for decades, the need for an iconic place of worship became more apparent as the city grew. With this in mind, the local community pushed for the creation of a mosque that would serve Muslims and stand as a symbol of unity and progress.
Construction began in 2011 with support from the Egyptian government and private benefactors and was completed in 2017, after six years of work, at an estimated cost of between 35 and 40 million Egyptian pounds. Designed by renowned Egyptian architect Fouad Tawfik Hafez, the mosque draws inspiration from Ottoman and Mamluk architectural styles, giving it a classical look despite its recent completion.
Al-Sahaba was built with the intention of being much more than a place of prayer. It was designed to be a cultural and educational centre for the local community and tourists alike, with spaces for lectures, libraries and study rooms. The decision to build the mosque in Sharm el-Sheikh, a city known for luxury tourism and water sports, highlights the aim of the creators to offer visitors a deeper cultural and spiritual experience. Since it opened, Al Sahaba has become one of the most important religious monuments in the Sinai region, with the capacity to accommodate up to 3,000 worshippers in its main hall.
Alongside its purpose as a place of worship, the mosque also reflects Egypt’s strong national identity, blending the past and present in a single space.
Architecture: a dialogue between the ancient and the modern
The Al Sahaba Mosque impresses with its imposing architecture, perfectly balancing classical elements of Islamic art with contemporary touches. Its design is inspired by traditional Ottoman mosques, featuring large copper domes, gilded doors and tall minarets that stand out against the desert skyline. The two main minarets, reaching 76 metres high, are visible from many different points in the city, establishing the mosque as both a spiritual and visual landmark.
The central dome is another of the mosque’s striking features. Decorated with intricate geometric and floral motifs, it is a reflection of the rich decorative traditions of the Islamic world. The use of colour, particularly gold and green tones, enhances the sense of serenity and devotion that envelops those who cross the threshold of this sacred space.
Inside, the mosque continues to captivate with a large prayer hall, where ornate chandeliers hang from the ceiling, casting a soft, warm glow across the space. Its main inner courtyard rises 36 metres high and spans an area of 1,800 square metres. Attention to detail is evident in every corner, from hand-woven carpets to the Arabic inscriptions that adorn the walls.
What you will see on your visit: a place for spirituality and learning about Islamic culture
When you arrive at the Al Sahaba Mosque, the first thing you’ll notice is its majestic Ottoman/Mamluk façade, which contrasts with the modernity of the rest of Sharm el-Sheikh. With its two tall minarets reaching 76 metres, the mosque seems to touch the sky, serving as a spiritual beacon visible from various points in the city. Adorned with intricate geometric patterns, the central dome glows gold and green in the desert sun, inviting the faithful and curious alike to explore its interior.
Inside, the main prayer space is vast, with Arabic calligraphy and arabesque motifs that honour Egypt’s rich Islamic heritage. Each with hundreds of lights, chandeliers softly illuminate the room, enhancing the atmosphere of calm and devotion. The floors are covered with handmade carpets, and the polished marble detailing on the walls and columns envelops you in a sense of luxury and serenity. This area is designed to accommodate thousands of people and becomes a special meeting place during religious festivals when the mosque fills with worshippers.
Beyond the prayer area, the mosque also houses an International Islamic Cultural Centre, dedicated to promoting understanding and mutual respect between cultures. This centre is a must visit if you want to learn more about the history of Islam and its influence on Egypt and the Sinai region. Activities include seminars and exhibitions covering religious, historical and cultural topics.
You’ll also find a religious and cultural library with a vast collection of books and manuscripts on theology, Islamic history and classical literature. The library serves as a place of learning for locals and visitors alike, offering a fascinating insight into the rich intellectual heritage of Islam. It’s a space where scholars and students can explore sacred texts and religious literature, as well as participate in discussions and guided readings that examine the faith from a contemporary perspective.
Outside the prayer hall, the gardens surrounding the mosque provide a peaceful space for contemplation. Lined with palm trees and softly murmuring fountains, it’s the perfect spot to pause and take in the beauty and tranquillity that radiates from this sanctuary in the heart of Sharm el-Sheikh’s bustling old town.
Recommendations and useful information: tips for an enjoyable visit
When planning a visit to the Al Sahaba Mosque, it’s important to keep a few things in mind to ensure a pleasant and respectful experience. As in any place of Islamic worship, visitors are expected to follow an appropriate dress code. Men should wear long trousers and avoid sleeveless shirts, while women should cover their arms and hair and wear long skirts or trousers. However, many nearby locations offer headscarves and other garments if needed.
It’s also essential to plan your visit taking prayer times into account, as the mosque is closed to tourists during these hours. We recommend visiting the mosque in the morning or at sunset, when the natural light highlights the architectural details, and the place is less crowded.
While there’s no entrance fee to visit the mosque, visitors are encouraged to make a small donation to support the upkeep of the building. These contributions help to preserve this majestic space for future generations.
