Top 10 Reasons to Visit Masjid Azhar (Al-Azhar Mosque) in Cairo 2025

Nestled in the heart of Islamic Cairo, Masjid Azhar, also known as Al-Azhar Mosque, stands as one of the oldest and most important Islamic landmarks in the world. More than just a religious site, it represents over a thousand years of Islamic learning, culture, and spiritual practice. With its architectural brilliance, religious significance, and status as the home of Al-Azhar University, this mosque is a must-see for anyone interested in Islamic history, Sunni scholarship, and Cairo’s cultural heritage.

The History of Al-Azhar Mosque Cairo

The history of Al-Azhar Mosque Cairo dates back to 970 AD when it was commissioned by the Fatimid Caliph Al-Mu’izz li-Din Allah after the founding of the city of Cairo. Named in honor of Fatimah al-Zahra, the daughter of the Prophet Muhammad, the mosque was originally intended to promote the teachings of the Shi’a Fatimid sect.

However, over time, especially during the reign of Saladin in the 12th century, the mosque shifted to Sunni Islam and gradually evolved into the world-renowned educational institution it is today. This transition marked the beginning of Al-Azhar’s transformation into a symbol of mainstream Islamic scholarship.

From its humble beginnings as a simple place of worship, Masjid Azhar has grown into one of the most influential mosques and universities in Cairo, and indeed, the entire Muslim world.

Where is Al-Azhar Mosque Located?

Where is Al-Azhar Mosque located? It is situated in the vibrant district of Islamic Cairo, an area teeming with historic mosques, bustling bazaars, and ancient architecture. https://maps.app.goo.gl/48hxKVYFx4MMEdPg9

📍 Address: Al-Azhar Street, El-Darb El-Ahmar, Cairo, Egypt
🕌 Nearby Attractions:

• Khan El-Khalili Bazaar

• Al-Hussein Mosque

• Al-Muizz Street

• Cairo Citadel

This central location makes visiting Masjid Al-Azhar Cairo both accessible and enriching. A stroll around the neighborhood offers a vivid glimpse into Cairo’s Islamic legacy.

Oldest Mosque in Cairo Egypt

Often cited as the oldest mosque in Cairo Egypt that still serves its original dual purpose—worship and education—Al-Azhar has played a continuous role in shaping Egypt’s religious and academic identity. It holds a unique position not only as a place of prayer but also as a nucleus of Islamic jurisprudence and knowledge dissemination for over a millennium.

Al-Azhar Mosque Architecture: A Living Museum

Al-Azhar Mosque architecture is a breathtaking showcase of Islamic art. Over the centuries, it has undergone multiple renovations, each leaving behind architectural imprints from various Islamic dynasties.

Architectural Highlights:

• Five minarets, built in different eras, exhibit diverse styles from the Fatimid to the Ottoman period.

• The central courtyard is surrounded by arched colonnades made of white marble.

• The mihrab (prayer niche) and minbar (pulpit) are intricately carved and rich in historical detail.

• A blend of Mamluk, Ottoman, and Fatimid elements can be seen in domes, arches, and wooden ceilings.

Visitors interested in art and history will find plenty to admire. The mosque’s architecture alone tells the story of Al-Azhar in Islamic history.

Al-Azhar University and Mosque: An Intellectual Powerhouse

The educational role of Al-Azhar Mosque began when scholars started teaching religious sciences in its halls. By the end of the 10th century, this evolved into a full-fledged academic institution—Al-Azhar University.

Key Features:

• One of the oldest universities in the world

• Offers degrees in Islamic law, Arabic language, and modern sciences

• Hosts over 500,000 students globally

• Its graduates include imams, scholars, and thought leaders across the Muslim world

The connection between Al-Azhar Mosque and university illustrates how deeply education and religion are intertwined in Islamic tradition.

Religious Significance of Masjid Azhar

The religious significance of Masjid Azhar cannot be overstated. It serves as:

• A central hub for Sunni Islamic scholarship

• A leading institution for issuing fatwas (legal opinions)

• A spiritual guide for millions of Muslims worldwide

Al-Azhar’s teachings emphasize moderation, tolerance, and dialogue, making it a respected authority in both traditional and contemporary Islamic discussions.

Al-Azhar Mosque Prayer Times and Jummah

For those planning a visit, aligning your schedule with the Al-Azhar Mosque prayer times can add a deeply spiritual dimension to your experience.

Typical Prayer Times (adjust seasonally):

• Fajr: Just before sunrise

• Dhuhr: Around midday

• Asr: Mid-afternoon

• Maghrib: At sunset

• Isha: After dusk

🕌 Al-Azhar Mosque Jummah Time (Friday Prayer): Generally begins around 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM.

Travelers can also check Al Azhar Mosque South Shields prayer times for a global connection to their local community mosque.

Islamic Cairo Sightseeing Al-Azhar

Islamic Cairo sightseeing Al-Azhar tours are popular among tourists who want to understand the soul of the city. Most guided tours include:

• Al-Azhar Mosque

• Mosque of Al-Hakim

• Sultan Hassan Mosque

• Al-Rifa’i Mosque

These tours offer fascinating stories about Cairo historical mosques and the people who built them. A knowledgeable guide can deepen your appreciation for each site’s unique features and legacy.

Al-Azhar Mosque Guided Tour Experience

Booking an Al-Azhar Mosque guided tour is highly recommended. These tours typically include:

• A walkthrough of the prayer hall, minarets, and educational spaces

• Insights into Islamic law and theology

• Anecdotes from Al-Azhar’s 1,000+ year history

Most guides are fluent in English, Arabic, and sometimes French, making it easy for international visitors to engage fully with the experience.

Cultural Heritage Sites in Cairo: Why Al-Azhar Matters

Among the many cultural heritage sites in Cairo, Masjid Azhar remains one of the most revered. Its historical, educational, and religious significance places it among the top important Islamic landmarks in Egypt.

As you explore, you’ll quickly understand why Al-Azhar Cairo tourist attraction is not just for Muslims but for anyone interested in history, architecture, and culture.

What to See at Al-Azhar Mosque Cairo

Wondering what to see at Al-Azhar Mosque Cairo? Here’s your must-see list:

• Main Prayer Hall: A serene and majestic space

• Mihrab & Minbar: Stunning examples of Islamic craftsmanship

• Courtyard: A peaceful area ideal for reflection and photos

• Library and Classrooms: Glimpse the university’s academic side

• Minarets: Each offers a different architectural story

Al-Azhar and Sunni Islam

The influence of Al-Azhar and Sunni Islam is global. As one of the most respected institutions in the Muslim world, it regularly:

• Hosts international Islamic conferences

• Offers spiritual guidance through televised sermons

• Engages in interfaith and peace dialogues

Its alumni serve as ambassadors of Islam in more than 100 countries, promoting compassion, wisdom, and scholarship.

Tips for Visiting Masjid Al-Azhar Cairo in 2025

To make the most of your visit, follow these tips:

Al-Azhar Cairo Tourist Attraction in 2025

With Egypt continuing to invest in tourism and heritage preservation, Al-Azhar Mosque Cairo remains a top-tier destination. From school groups to spiritual seekers, it appeals to a wide audience.

Whether you’re on a historical tour or a spiritual retreat, Al-Azhar offers something unique: a living bridge between ancient tradition and modern relevance.

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Visit Masjid Azhar

Masjid Azhar is not just one of the most famous mosques in Egypt—it’s a global symbol of spiritual clarity, intellectual depth, and architectural beauty. For more than a millennium, it has been a sanctuary of prayer, a fortress of learning, and a guiding light for Sunni Islam.

If you’re traveling to Cairo in 2025, don’t miss this cornerstone of Islamic civilization.

Plan Your Visit or Book a Guided Tour

Ready to explore the wonders of Al-Azhar Mosque?

✅ Expert-guided historical and cultural tours
✅ Flexible packages including Islamic Cairo highlights
✅ Comfortable transport and group discounts available

Mosque of Ibn Tulun:Cairo’s Oldest Mosque – ETG (egypttripsguide.com)

❓ Why is Al-Azhar Mosque famous?

Masjid Azhar is world-renowned for being one of the oldest Islamic universities and a leading center of Sunni Islamic learning. It combines religious worship with over a millennium of scholarly excellence.

❓ What time does the Al-Azhar Mosque open?

The mosque is generally open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily, though prayer times may affect access. It’s best to visit between morning and afternoon prayers for a quieter experience.

❓ How old is Al-Azhar Mosque?

Al-Azhar Mosque is over 1,050 years old, founded in 970 AD by the Fatimid dynasty, making it one of the oldest mosques in Cairo and a key monument in Islamic history.

❓ Is Al-Azhar Sunni or Shia?

Al-Azhar began under Shia Fatimid rule but transitioned to Sunni Islam during the time of Saladin in the 12th century. Today, it is a major authority in Sunni Islamic scholarship.

❓ Which is the 1 biggest mosque in the world?

The largest mosque in the world is Masjid al-Haram in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, which surrounds the Kaaba and can accommodate over 2 million worshippers.

❓ Why is it Masjid al-Haram?

“Masjid al-Haram” means “The Sacred Mosque.” It is the holiest site in Islam, located in Mecca, and houses the Kaaba, the qibla (direction) toward which Muslims pray.

❓ How much does it cost to go to the Al-Azhar Mosque?

Entry to Al-Azhar Mosque is free. Guided tours may have a small fee, depending on the provider, typically ranging from $5 to $20 USD per person.

❓ Who is the Grand Imam now?

As of 2025, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar is Ahmed el-Tayeb, a prominent scholar and global Islamic authority promoting moderate Sunni Islam.

❓ What is the oldest mosque in the world?

The oldest mosque in the world is believed to be the Quba Mosque, located near Medina, Saudi Arabia, originally built in 622 AD by the Prophet Muhammad himself.

❓ What is the most expensive mosque in the world?

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, UAE, is often cited as the most expensive, costing over $545 million USD due to its luxurious materials and vast scale.

❓ Can non-Muslims go to Mecca?

No, non-Muslims are not allowed to enter Mecca. Access to Masjid al-Haram and the city is strictly reserved for Muslims only.

❓ Where is Prophet Muhammad buried?

The Prophet Muhammad is buried in Al-Masjid an-Nabawi in Medina, Saudi Arabia, which is the second holiest site in Islam after Mecca.