About Hukuru Miskiy (Old Friday Mosque), Malé
Hukuru Miskiy, the Old Friday Mosque, is the oldest mosque in Malé and a masterpiece of coral stone architecture. Built in 1658 on the site of an earlier mosque, its walls are made of interlocking blocks of fossilized coral carved with geometric patterns and Arabic inscriptions. Inside, lacquer work and carved wooden panels tell of the islands' long conversion to Islam in 1153.
The surrounding cemetery holds ornate coral gravestones of sultans and nobles, and a round blue and white minaret built in 1675 stands nearby. The mosque remains in use, so non Muslim visitors usually view it from outside or with permission from the Ministry of Islamic Affairs. It is on the UNESCO tentative list for coral stone mosques.
What to see
- Carved coral stone walls
- Lacquer and wood carving inside
- Munnaaru minaret of 1675
- Royal coral gravestones
- Nearby Medhu Ziyaaraiy shrine
Visiting Hukuru Miskiy (Old Friday Mosque), Malé: practical guide
- Best time
- December to April
- Hours
- Exterior viewable daily outside prayer times
- Entry
- Free; interior by permission
- Dress code
- Cover shoulders and knees; women cover hair inside
- Nearest airport
- Velana International Airport (MLE), 2 km
Tips from experienced pilgrims
- Seek permission in advance to enter
- Avoid Friday prayer times
- Combine with the National Museum and Sultan Park
Festivals and special days
- Eid al-Fitr
- National Day (Qaumee Dhuvas)
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
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Frequently asked questions
Where is Hukuru Miskiy (Old Friday Mosque), Malé?
Hukuru Miskiy (Old Friday Mosque), Malé is in Malé, Kaafu Atoll, Maldives, Asia. GPS coordinates: 4.1779, 73.5100. The nearest airport is Velana International Airport (MLE), 2 km.
What is the best time to visit Hukuru Miskiy (Old Friday Mosque), Malé?
December to April
Is there an entry fee for Hukuru Miskiy (Old Friday Mosque), Malé?
Free; interior by permission Opening hours: Exterior viewable daily outside prayer times
What should I wear when visiting Hukuru Miskiy (Old Friday Mosque), Malé?
Cover shoulders and knees; women cover hair inside
Which religion is Hukuru Miskiy (Old Friday Mosque), Malé sacred to?
Hukuru Miskiy (Old Friday Mosque), Malé is sacred to Islam. Active place of worship.
