Just a couple of centuries ago, the capital of one of the world’s wealthiest countries was an unknown fishing village, and Kuwait was dependent on the British crown. The discovery of rich oil fields quickly transformed the desert land into a prosperous independent country and the fishing village into the luxurious capital of Kuwait with many unique landmarks, including Kuwait’s central shrine, the Grand Mosque.

The largest mosque in the country with an area of 20,000 square meters has a delightful garden spreading over a vast territory. It amazes every visitor, be they a local Muslim, a pilgrim, or a country’s guest, with its beauty and grandeur. Every day at dawn, 144 windows let in the morning sun rays, illuminating the main prayer hall, and 21 massive teak doors welcome the faithful citizens of Kuwait. In total, the Grand Mosque can accommodate more than 10,000 people, of which only a thousand are women. But the most significant number of believers visit the mosque during the holy Ramadan when about 200,000 people come from all over the Arab world to pray inside in anticipation of the “Night of Power.”

The construction of the main mosque in the capital began in 1979 and took seven years. The magnificent mosque was erected in keeping with the best traditions of Arab and Islamic architecture. The minaret is decorated with 99 names of Allah.

The splendid interiors are finished with Italian marble and teak wood with delicate and exquisite carvings by the best Indian craftsmen. It took more than two years to make the carvings in the emir’s room, not to mention the luxurious decoration of the whole mosque.

Surrounded by green plantations, exotic palms, and bright flower beds are lovely fountains and artificial waterfalls that will mesmerize you with their beauty and the sound of falling water. The fabulous gardens are filled with sweet fruity aromas, like a heavenly delight granted to the faithful by Allah.