With its iconic spiral shape, the Al-Fanar Cultural Center has become one of the most prominent landmarks in the beating heart of Qatar, Doha. Also known as the Abdullah bin Zaid Al-Mahmoud Islamic Cultural Center, the Center hosts one of the country's most influential Islamic centers, offering several cultural events, workshops, and unique architectural views.

Unique Architectural Design

Al Fanar Cultural Center can be seen from a distance, especially in the evening when the night illumination of the Doha Corniche highlights the unique design of this distinctive architectural masterpiece.

Located near Souq Waqif and the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA), the mosque was named after the famous Qatari Islamic scholar and founder of the Qatari judicial system, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zaid Al-Mahmoud. It was officially opened during a public ceremony on January 12, 2008.

Until 2011, the Al-Fanar Center was the largest mosque in the country, until it was surpassed by the Imam Muhammad bin Abd al-Wahhab Mosque after it was officially opened on December 16 of the same year. However, the Islamic Center's unique spiral mosque is still the tallest in the Gulf State today.

In addition to its iconic shape, it plays a pivotal cultural and religious role in society in Qatar.

Al-Fanar Cultural Center is Qatar's Key Educational Institution for Islam

Al Fanar Cultural Center offers many social, religious, and educational activities. It provides courses and aids in Islamic religious studies for Muslims and lessons and classes in Arabic on various Islamic fields.

The Center also includes a library rich in the most notable religious works and manuscripts available to the public. Anyone wishing to learn Arabic can enter the free classes offered by the Center.

On the ground floor, there is a shopping area where visitors can experience Islamic traditions and cultural heritage in the State of Qatar.