Hassan II Mosque, Casablanca

About Hassan II Mosque, Casablanca

Commissioned by King Hassan II and designed by the French architect Michel Pinseau, this mosque partly rises over the Atlantic Ocean, inspired by a Quranic verse describing God's throne upon the water. Its minaret, about 210 meters tall, is among the tallest in the world, and a laser at its top points toward Mecca at night. The building was funded largely by public subscription across Morocco during its construction. The site is spectacular.

Thousands of Moroccan artisans worked on the building using carved cedar, zellige mosaic tile, marble and painted plaster. The prayer hall can hold around twenty-five thousand worshippers, and its roof can slide open. Unusually for Morocco, where most mosques are closed to non-Muslims, guided tours admit visitors of all faiths to the prayer hall and the ablution rooms below. An Islamic arts museum, library and madrasa share the complex. It welcomes many visitors.

What to see

• Oceanfront minaret
• Retractable roof of the prayer hall
• Zellige tilework and carved cedar ceilings
• Lower ablution hall with fountains
• Esplanade at sunset

Visiting Hassan II Mosque, Casablanca: practical guide

Best time

March to June and September to November

Hours

Guided tours several times daily except Friday morning; times vary in Ramadan

Entry

Fee for guided tours

Dress code

Shoulders and knees covered; women may cover hair

Nearest airport

Mohammed V International Airport (CMN), 35 km

Tips from experienced pilgrims

• Book tours online or arrive early to buy tickets
• Bring a bag for your shoes
• Visit the esplanade at sunset for ocean views

Festivals and special days

• Ramadan and Laylat al-Qadr
• Eid al-Fitr

Etiquette for visitors

Guidance drawn from Islam tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.

• Dress modestly, covering arms and legs; women usually cover their hair in mosques.
• Remove shoes before entering the prayer hall.
• Avoid visiting during prayer times unless invited, and never walk in front of someone praying.
• Be discreet about eating, drinking and smoking in public during Ramadan days.
• Use your right hand for eating and giving or receiving items.
• Some mosques and the holy cities of Mecca and Medina are closed to non-Muslims.

Location map

Open in OpenStreetMap · Get directions

Frequently asked questions