Location: Sulayman an Nabullsi
The King Abdullah I Mosque, located in the Al Abdali district of Amman, Jordan, is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, celebrated for its striking blue mosaic dome and its role as a symbol of contemporary Islamic architecture. Built between 1982 and 1989 as a memorial by the late King Hussein bin Talal to his grandfather, King Abdullah I, the founder of modern Jordan, the mosque is a testament to the Hashemite dynasty’s legacy and Jordan’s moderate Islamic identity. As the only mosque in Amman that explicitly welcomes non-Muslim visitors, it serves as a cultural bridge, offering insights into Islamic heritage and Jordanian history.
The King Abdullah I Mosque was commissioned by King Hussein bin Talal
to honor his grandfather, King Abdullah I (1882–1951), who led Jordan to
independence from British colonial rule in 1946 and established the
Hashemite monarchy. Construction began in 1982 and was completed in
1989, with the mosque inaugurated as a state mosque, a status it held
until 2006 when the King Hussein Bin Talal Mosque became Jordan’s
national mosque.
Designed by the renowned Jordanian architect
Rasem Badran, the mosque reflects a blend of traditional Islamic motifs
and modern design, embodying Jordan’s vision of harmonizing heritage
with progress. King Abdullah I, assassinated in 1951 in Jerusalem, was a
pivotal figure in Jordan’s history, navigating the country through
regional conflicts and Western alliances, though his ties with Israel
stirred controversy among Arab leaders. The mosque stands as a tribute
to his leadership and foresight, as well as a gesture of reconciliation
by King Hussein, who pardoned the mastermind of his grandfather’s
assassination in 1967.
The mosque’s construction in the late 20th
century aligns with Jordan’s efforts to promote religious tourism and
cultural openness, exemplified by its proximity to a Coptic church and
its open-door policy for non-Muslims. It remains a significant site for
both worship and tourism, attracting thousands annually for its
spiritual ambiance and architectural splendor.
The King Abdullah I Mosque is a masterpiece of contemporary Islamic
architecture, characterized by its 35-meter blue mosaic dome, futuristic
minarets, and expansive prayer hall. Covering a total area of
approximately 4,000 square meters, the mosque complex includes multiple
facilities designed for worship, education, and cultural engagement.
Below are the key architectural elements:
1. Exterior Design
Blue Mosaic Dome: The mosque’s most iconic feature is its
35-meter-diameter dome, covered in vibrant blue mosaics that shimmer
under Amman’s sunlight. The dome, which rises 31 meters in height, is
octagonal and adorned with the Ninety-Nine Most Beautiful Names of Allah
inscribed around its neck, culminating in a golden star at the apex. The
blue hue, symbolizing the heavens, makes the mosque a distinctive
landmark visible from various points in the city.
Minarets: Two
futuristic minarets, described as non-traditional in design, flank the
mosque, serving as navigational coordinates for visitors. Unlike
classical Ottoman or Mamluk minarets, these have a sleek, modern
aesthetic, aligning with the mosque’s contemporary style.
White Stone
Facade: The exterior is crafted from white limestone, a local material
that gives the mosque a clean, radiant appearance. The facade features
arches and calligraphy from Surat Al-Rahman, adding spiritual and
artistic depth.
Courtyard: The symmetric octagonal courtyard,
covering 1,615 square meters, can accommodate up to 3,000 worshippers.
It is paved and open to the elements, offering views of the dome and
minarets against Amman’s skyline.
2. Interior Design
Main
Prayer Hall: The octagonal prayer hall, spanning 1,615 square meters, is
pillar-free, creating an open, cavernous space that can house up to
3,000 worshippers (some sources claim up to 7,000, though this may
include the courtyard). The absence of pillars enhances visibility and
acoustics, ideal for communal prayers. The hall is capped by the blue
dome, decorated with Quranic inscriptions and a golden star radiating
light.
Chandelier: A suspended chandelier with 168 lanterns arranged
in three circles dominates the hall. Each lantern is inscribed with the
word “Allah”, and the chandelier features a Quranic verse, adding to the
spiritual ambiance. The chandelier’s traditional copper design contrasts
with the mosque’s modern elements.
Red Carpet: The floor is covered
with a red wool carpet, symbolizing fertile land and patterned to guide
worshippers toward the qibla (direction of Mecca). The recurring
ornamental textile design enhances the hall’s warmth and directs prayer
rows.
Mihrab and Minbar: The mihrab, a niche indicating the qibla,
and the minbar, a pulpit for sermons, are panelled with wood and marble
oriels, blending functionality with artistry. The kiblah wall is adorned
with intricate Islamic calligraphy and geometric patterns.
Women’s
Prayer Hall: A dedicated 300-square-meter women’s section accommodates
up to 500 worshippers, ensuring inclusivity. This area is separate but
equally well-decorated, with access to the main hall’s ambiance.
Royal Cabin: A 250-square-meter royal enclosure, decorated with Islamic
inscriptions and a smaller chandelier, is reserved for dignitaries and
the royal family, reflecting the mosque’s connection to the Hashemites.
3. Additional Facilities
Islamic Museum: The 150-square-meter
Islamic Museum, located within the complex, is divided into two
sections:
King Abdullah I Collection: Displays personal items,
photographs, and manuscripts of King Abdullah I, offering insights into
his life and reign.
Islamic Artifacts: Showcases ancient pottery,
coins, and stone engravings from various Islamic eras in Jordan, as well
as models of Islamic archaeological sites. The museum is a highlight for
visitors interested in Jordanian history and Islamic heritage.
Library: A 400-square-meter library houses over 20,000 books on Islamic
studies, history, and culture, serving as a resource for scholars and
students. It is fully equipped and furnished, enhancing the mosque’s
educational role.
Main Events Hall: A 400-person events hall is
equipped with air conditioning, audio translation, voting systems, and
sound/lighting, used for conferences, lectures, and community
gatherings.
Dar Al-Quran: An 80-square-meter hall dedicated to
Quranic teaching, supporting religious education within the community.
Gift Shop (Mtjr): Located near the entrance, the shop offers Jordanian
handicrafts, books, postcards, and souvenirs. Visitors exit through the
shop, though some report pushy sales tactics.
Administration and
Reception: The complex includes 200-square-meter administrative offices
and a 180-square-meter reception area, ensuring smooth operations for
worshippers and tourists.
Roofed Halls and Lounges: Additional
900-square-meter spaces provide areas for relaxation and community
activities, enhancing the mosque’s role as a social hub.
4.
Architectural Style
Designed by Rasem Badran, the mosque combines
contemporary Islamic architecture with traditional elements. The blue
dome and calligraphy draw on classical Islamic motifs, while the
futuristic minarets and pillar-free hall reflect modern innovation. The
use of white limestone and local materials roots the mosque in Jordanian
tradition, and the octagonal layout echoes Umayyad and Abbasid designs,
such as the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem.
The King Abdullah I Mosque is a cultural and religious landmark with
multifaceted importance:
Tribute to King Abdullah I: The mosque
commemorates the founder of modern Jordan, celebrating his role in
achieving independence and navigating regional challenges. The Islamic
Museum’s focus on his personal effects reinforces this legacy.
Symbol
of Moderation: Jordan’s open-door policy for non-Muslims reflects its
commitment to religious tolerance, as seen in the mosque’s proximity to
a Coptic church and its alignment with the Amman Message (2004), which
promotes Islam’s universal values. This makes the mosque a cultural
bridge for interfaith dialogue.
Contemporary Islamic Architecture: As
a modern structure, the mosque showcases Jordan’s ability to blend
tradition with innovation, earning praise as one of the finest examples
of 20th-century Islamic design. Its blue dome and calligraphy are
celebrated as artistic achievements.
Religious Tourism: The mosque’s
accessibility to tourists, with a modest 2 JOD entry fee and provided
abayas, has made it a top attraction, enriching Amman’s cultural tourism
alongside sites like the Amman Citadel and Roman Theatre. It attracts
both Muslims for prayer and non-Muslims for cultural exploration.
Community Hub: Beyond worship, the mosque serves as an educational and
social center, with its library, events hall, and Dar Al-Quran fostering
learning and community engagement. It accommodates up to 10,000
worshippers (7,000 inside, 3,000 in the courtyard), making it a focal
point for religious life.
Compared to other Amman mosques, such as
the Grand Husseini Mosque (rebuilt in 1932, more historical) or the King
Hussein Bin Talal Mosque (built in 2005, larger and the current state
mosque), the King Abdullah I Mosque stands out for its tourist-friendly
policy and contemporary design, though it is no longer the primary place
of worship.
Visiting the King Abdullah I Mosque offers a serene and culturally
enriching experience, blending spiritual reflection with architectural
appreciation. Here’s what to expect:
Duration of Visit: A visit
typically takes 20–40 minutes, including the prayer hall, courtyard, and
Islamic Museum. Those attending events or exploring the library may
spend longer.
Accessibility: Located on Suleiman Al Nabulsi Street in
Al Abdali, the mosque is 3 km east of the Amman Citadel and a 10-minute
walk from the Abdali bus station. Taxis or rideshare apps (Uber, Careem)
cost 1–2 JOD from downtown, and public buses to Al Abdali take 20–30
minutes. The address is approximately XW67+F4H, Amman.
Entry
Requirements:
Admission: 2 JOD (~2.82 USD) for non-Jordanians,
covering the mosque and Islamic Museum. Free for worshippers. The Jordan
Pass may not cover this fee.
Dress Code: Men must wear long trousers;
women must cover their heads, arms, and legs. Abayas (black full-length
dresses) and headscarves are provided free at the entrance. Shoes must
be removed before entering the prayer hall.
Non-Muslim Access: Open
to non-Muslims Saturday–Thursday, 8:00 AM–11:00 AM and 12:30 PM–2:00 PM.
Closed to non-Muslims on Fridays (Islamic prayer day) and during Muslim
holidays or special events.
Highlights:
Blue Dome and Prayer
Hall: The pillar-free hall, with its blue dome, red carpet, and
168-lantern chandelier, creates a serene and awe-inspiring atmosphere.
The Quranic inscriptions and marble oriels are photogenic.
Islamic
Museum: The museum’s collection of King Abdullah I’s items and Islamic
artifacts, including pottery and coins, offers historical context,
though some note it as “small” but “interesting.”
Courtyard Views:
The courtyard provides multiple perspectives of the dome, minarets, and
Amman’s skyline, ideal for photography, especially at dusk when the dome
is illuminated.
Gift Shop: The shop offers Jordanian crafts, though
some visitors report pushy salespeople, likening the exit to a “Disney
World” experience.
Atmosphere: Described as “peaceful” and
“welcoming,” the mosque offers a tranquil escape from Amman’s busy
streets. Staff are noted for their friendliness, with some speaking
French or English to provide explanations. The interior’s “sober yet
traditional” decor, with red carpets and lighting, creates a warm
ambiance.
Photography: Permitted outdoors, but prohibited indoors
during prayers or in sensitive areas. Visitors should confirm with
staff. The courtyard and exterior are popular for capturing the blue
dome.
Guided Tours: No guide is required, but staff or local guides
(available through city tours) offer insights into the mosque’s history
and architecture. A booklet with explanations is provided at entry. City
tours often combine the mosque with the Citadel, Roman Theatre, and
Rainbow Street.
Nearby Attractions:
Jordan National Gallery of
Fine Arts (1–2 km): A contemporary art museum in Jabal Al-Luweibdeh.
Rainbow Street (2 km): A trendy area with cafes, galleries, and
nightlife.
Al Abdali Mall (1 km): A modern shopping and dining
destination.
Amman Citadel (3 km): Home to the Temple of Hercules,
Umayyad Palace, and Byzantine Basilica.
Roman Theatre (3–4 km): A
2nd-century amphitheater in downtown Amman.
Limitations:
Limited English signage in the museum and prayer hall may frustrate some
visitors, as noted in reviews.
The gift shop’s pushy sales tactics
can detract from the experience, with some feeling pressured to buy.
Non-Muslims are restricted during Friday prayers and Islamic holidays,
requiring careful planning.
The mosque’s modern design may feel less
“historical” compared to older sites like the Grand Husseini Mosque or
Amman Citadel.
Location: King Abdullah I Mosque, Suleiman Al Nabulsi St, Jabal
Al-Luweibdeh, Al Abdali, Amman, Jordan (XW67+F4H).
Opening Hours:
Saturday–Thursday, 8:00 AM–11:00 AM and 12:30 PM–2:00 PM for
non-Muslims; closed to non-Muslims on Fridays and during Muslim
holidays. Confirm with the Jordan Tourism Board (www.visitjordan.com) or
mosque administration.
Admission: 2 JOD (~2.82 USD) for
non-Jordanians, including the Islamic Museum; free for worshippers.
Getting There:
By Taxi/Rideshare: Costs 1–2 JOD from downtown
(e.g., Roman Theatre). Use Uber, Careem, or input “King Abdullah I
Mosque” (XW67+F4H). A 10–15-minute ride.
By Public Transport: Buses
to Al Abdali Bus Station take 20–30 minutes from downtown, followed by a
10-minute walk. Look for “Al Abdali” on bus signs.
By Foot: A
10-minute walk from Abdali bus station; turn left onto King Hussein
Street. A 15–20-minute walk from Jabal Al-Luweibdeh attractions like the
Jordan National Gallery.
By Car: Parking is available near the
mosque, though spaces may be limited during peak times.
Tips for
Visitors:
Visit during non-prayer hours (e.g., mid-morning) for a
relaxed experience and to avoid crowds.
Dress modestly: long pants
for men; headscarves and long sleeves for women. Abayas are provided,
but conservative attire is preferred.
Bring a camera for outdoor
photos, especially at dusk when the dome is illuminated.
Plan around
Friday closures and check for holiday schedules to avoid disappointment.
Combine with nearby attractions like the Jordan National Gallery or
Rainbow Street for a half-day itinerary.
Be prepared for the gift
shop exit and politely decline if uninterested in purchases.
Contact:
Jordan Tourism Board (www.visitjordan.com) or mosque administration via
local tourism offices. No direct phone or email is widely listed, but
inquiries can be made through tour operators like Viator or Evendo.
The King Abdullah I Mosque is a stunning example of modern Islamic
architecture and a vital cultural attraction, but it has limitations.
Its contemporary design, while praised, lacks the historical depth of
older mosques like the Grand Husseini Mosque or the Umayyad Mosque in
Damascus, potentially disappointing those seeking ancient heritage. The
Islamic Museum, though informative, is small and lacks extensive English
descriptions, limiting its appeal for non-Arabic speakers.
The
gift shop’s aggressive sales tactics, likened to a “Disney World” exit,
can mar the spiritual experience, as noted by some visitors. The
mosque’s closure to non-Muslims on Fridays and during holidays requires
careful planning, unlike fully accessible sites like the Roman Theatre.
Additionally, claims that it is primarily an “art gallery” rather than a
place of worship are misleading; it remains an active mosque, though its
tourist-friendly policy and museum emphasize cultural engagement.
The narrative of King Abdullah I’s legacy, while central to the
mosque’s identity, should be approached critically. His Western
alliances and secret meetings with Israel, as noted in historical
accounts, were controversial, and the mosque’s construction by King
Hussein can be seen as both a tribute and a political statement.
Compared to the Jordan University Mosque, which is more
academic-focused, or the King Hussein Bin Talal Mosque, which is larger,
the King Abdullah I Mosque excels in accessibility and aesthetic appeal
but is less central to local worship.