Dominating the Al-Sharafiyah District, His Majesty King Saud Mosque is the largest in Jeddah and an icon of modern Saudi Arabia. Built in a classical Persian style and opened in 1987, it impresses with both its simple detail and monumental scale. It is one of four mosques in Saudi Arabia than can be visited by non-Muslims and is a masterpiece of Arabic design.
His Majesty King Saud Mosque's towering minaret hangs high above the city, leading visitors towards a whitewashed building that fills an entire city block. Multiple domes can be seen from outside, completing the mosque's classic panorama. Head inside, and the white theme continues with plain walls that enable elaborate carpets and Arabic calligraphy to stand out. Windows and ceilings feature intricate geometric patterns that can captivate for hours. Most impressive is the central dome which epitomises the mosque's elegance and calmness.
Most of the mosque is open to non-Muslims, with the exception of the prayer hall in the centre. Visitors must respect Islamic culture and dress appropriately for a visit, with everyone covering their knees and shoulders. Women must cover their hair. Note that the mosque is closed to non-Muslims on Fridays and can't be entered during prayer times.
The scale of this structure can baffle, and the prayer hall measures almost 2,500 square kilometres. It was designed by Egyptian architect Abdel-Wahed El-Wakil, who also designed Jeddah's award-winning Corniche Mosque.