Clarification issued on entry fees to Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

Muscat: The Sultan Qaboos Higher Center for Culture and Science (SQHCCS) has released an official statement addressing rumours circulating on social media about the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque entrance fees.

The clarification stated that the fees are intended solely for managing visitor access and not for general entry to the mosque. It highlighted that the Grand Mosque is Oman’s top tourist attraction, and the rising number of visitors necessitated a management system to preserve the mosque’s facilities and provide a positive experience for everyone.

The SQHCCS statement explained: "Given the current requirements, the authority responsible for the Grand Mosque has partnered with the private sector to enhance the cultural aspect of the mosque and create opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises to compete for related projects."

The statement further noted that the contracted company is responsible for organization, cleanliness, and security and has employed 35 Omani guides fluent in various languages to assist visitors.

Additionally, it emphasised that the mosque remains accessible to Muslims during prayer times, and the fees do not apply to religious, cultural, or scientific visits.