In short
- Women must cover their hair, arms to wrists, and legs to ankles.
- Men need long trousers and shirts covering the shoulders.
- Abayas are available to rent at the entrance for 2.5 to 3 OMR.
In this article
Following the Dress Code Guide is the most important part of planning your visit. The rules are strictly enforced at the gate, and visitors wearing shorts, tank tops, or sheer clothing will be turned away.
What is the dress code for women?
Women must wear loose, opaque clothing that covers their arms to the wrists and legs to the ankles.
You also need a headscarf (hijab) that covers your hair and neck completely. Tight, sheer, or form-fitting garments are not allowed. A loose maxi dress, long skirt, or wide-leg trousers paired with a long-sleeved tunic works perfectly.
What is the dress code for men?
Men must wear long trousers and a shirt with sleeves that cover the shoulders.
Shorts and tank tops are strictly prohibited. A standard t-shirt and jeans or cotton trousers are perfectly acceptable for entry.
Can I rent an abaya at the mosque?
Yes, you can rent an abaya and headscarf at the entrance shop.
The rental cost is approximately 2.5 to 3 OMR. Bring cash in Omani Rials to pay for the rental. This is a convenient option if you do not have appropriate modest clothing with you.
What shoes should I wear?
Wear slip-on shoes or sandals, as you must remove them before entering the prayer halls.
All visitors must place their footwear on the designated shoe racks outside the Main Prayer Hall. You walk barefoot on the marble and carpets inside. Bring clean socks if you prefer not to walk barefoot.
What clothing items should I pack for my visit?
Pack a headscarf, loose trousers, long-sleeved shirts, slip-on shoes, and socks.
- Headscarf or pashmina (mandatory for women)
- Long, loose-fitting trousers or a maxi skirt
- Long-sleeved shirt or light tunic covering wrists
- Slip-on shoes or sandals
- Clean socks
How do I stay cool while wearing modest clothing?
Visit during the cooler morning hours and wear breathable fabrics like linen or cotton.
Since Tourist Visiting Hours are restricted to 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM, you avoid the worst of the midday heat. The white marble also reflects intense sunlight, so bring sunglasses.
Questions travellers ask
Do women need to cover their hair at the Grand Mosque?
Yes, women must wear a headscarf (hijab) covering all their hair and neck. This rule is strictly enforced at the entrance.
Can I wear socks inside the mosque prayer hall?
Yes, you can wear clean socks. All visitors must remove their shoes and leave them on the racks outside the prayer halls, but socks are permitted inside.
Do men have to wear long sleeves to the mosque in Oman?
No, men do not need long sleeves. However, shirts must have sleeves that cover the shoulders. Tank tops are not allowed.
