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Fanar Islamic Cultural Center

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ATTRACTION GUIDE · DOHA

Fanar Islamic Cultural Center

Doha's famous spiral minaret, the Abdulla Bin Zaid Al Mahmoud Islamic Cultural Center, which welcomes visitors to learn about Islam.

Tickets & tours Open in Google Maps
Time needed
1 hour
Entry
Free
Best time
Morning, outside prayer times
Area
Old Doha

The spiral minaret that is a symbol of Doha.

Where it is & how to get there

Address: Abdullah Bin Jassim St, Doha

  • On foot: Next to Souq Waqif.
  • Metro: Souq Waqif station, Gold Line.
  • Taxi: Ask for Fanar or the spiral mosque.

The story of Abdulla Bin Zaid Al Mahmoud Islamic Cultural Center

The spiral minaret was inspired by the Great Mosque of Samarra in Iraq and is one of Doha's best-known landmarks.

The center offers free tours, Arabic classes and an introduction to Islamic culture for visitors.

Best time to visit

Best season

All year.

Best time of day

Morning.

Friday

Busy at midday prayers.

Tips before you go

  • Visit outside prayer times.
  • Photograph it with dhows from the Corniche.
  • Dress modestly; women cover their hair inside.

Best hotels near Abdulla Bin Zaid Al Mahmoud Islamic Cultural Center

Well-known hotels within easy reach. Check prices and availability for your dates.

Mandarin Oriental, Doha

Luxury hotel in Msheireb.

See prices

Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels

Heritage rooms inside the souq.

See prices

Hotels in West Bay

Towers with bay views.

See prices
All hotels near Abdulla Bin Zaid Al Mahmoud Islamic Cultural Center

What's around Abdulla Bin Zaid Al Mahmoud Islamic Cultural Center

  • Souq WaqifNext door.
  • Doha Corniche5 minutes.
  • Museum of Islamic Art10 minutes.

Questions travellers ask

Can visitors enter?

Yes, outside prayer times.

Is it free?

Yes.

What inspired the minaret?

The Samarra mosque in Iraq.

More in Doha

Museum of Islamic Art

Museum of Islamic Art

Read the guide
Souq Waqif

Souq Waqif

Read the guide
National Museum of Qatar

National Museum of Qatar

Read the guide
Doha Corniche

Doha Corniche

Read the guide
Back to the Doha guide
Travel Plan · Fanar Islamic Cultural Center Travel times, prices and opening hours change. Check official sites before you go. Photos: Unsplash. Privacy & disclosure · Contact us