As the sun begins to dip below the horizon of the Red Sea, painting the sky in hues of amber and violet, few places in Saudi Arabia offer the spiritual tranquility of **Al Rahmah Mosque**. Known affectionately as the "Floating Mosque," this white-marble structure is built on concrete stilts that extend directly into the water, creating an illusion that the holy house is drifting upon the waves during high tide.
A Masterpiece of Design
Built in 1985, Al Rahmah Mosque is a brilliant confluence of traditional Islamic architecture and modern engineering. Its brilliant white façade is crowned by a turquoise dome that reflects the colors of the sea, while the interior is bathed in natural light filtered through stained-glass windows. The central dome is supported by eight pillars, and the walls are adorned with intricate Quranic calligraphy and geometric patterns that are characteristic of the region's artistic heritage.
Visitor Experience & Etiquette
While the mosque is an active place of worship, it is also a major draw for tourists of all faiths. Visitors are welcome to admire the exterior and the surrounding courtyard at any time. To enter the prayer hall, one must adhere to strict codes of modesty: men should wear long trousers and shirts, and women must wear an abaya and a headscarf (hijab).
The mosque is particularly enchanting during the Fajr (dawn) or Maghrib (sunset) prayers, when the sound of the Adhan (call to prayer) echoes over the water, providing a deeply moving atmosphere for reflection.
Strategic Location
Located on the northern end of the Jeddah Corniche, the mosque is surrounded by various amenities, including open-air cafés, walking paths, and the nearby Jeddah Yacht Club. It serves as an ideal starting point for a coastal tour of the city.