Home › Destinations › Islamic Centre
Islamic Centre, ދިވެހިރާއްޖެ - Things to Do in Islamic Centre

Islamic Centre

Islamic Centre, ދިވެހިރާއްޖެ - Complete Travel Guide

The Islamic Centre in the Maldives represents the spiritual heart of this Muslim nation, located in the capital city of Malé. This magnificent complex, officially known as the Masjid-al-Sultan Muhammad Thakurufaanu-al-A'z'am, stands as the largest mosque in the Maldives and serves as the country's primary place of worship. The striking golden dome and elegant white facade make it one of Malé's most recognizable landmarks, visible from various points across the compact capital island. Beyond its religious significance, the Islamic Centre serves as a cultural and educational hub, offering visitors insight into Maldivian Islamic heritage and traditions. The complex includes not only the main prayer hall but also a library, conference facilities, and administrative offices. For travelers interested in understanding the local culture and religious practices of the Maldives, a visit to the Islamic Centre provides a respectful and enlightening experience in the heart of this tropical Islamic nation.

Top Islamic Centre

the Grand Friday Mosque

Explore the main prayer hall of the Islamic Centre, which can accommodate up to 5,000 worshippers. The mosque features beautiful Islamic architecture with intricate woodwork, Arabic calligraphy, and a impressive interior that reflects traditional Islamic design principles.

Booking Tip: Entry is free, but visitors must dress modestly with long pants and covered shoulders. Best visited outside prayer times (check local prayer schedule). Guided tours may be available through local cultural organizations for $10-15 per person.

Admire the Islamic Architecture

Take time to appreciate the distinctive golden dome and white marble facade that make the Islamic Centre a architectural masterpiece. The building combines traditional Islamic design elements with modern construction techniques, creating a striking visual landmark.

Booking Tip: Photography of the exterior is generally permitted, but always ask permission before photographing people or entering prayer areas. Best lighting for photos is during golden hour (early morning or late afternoon).

the Islamic Library

Visit the complete Islamic library housed within the centre, which contains religious texts, historical documents, and resources about Islamic culture in the Maldives. The library offers insights into the country's religious scholarship and educational traditions.

Booking Tip: Library access may require advance permission or be limited to certain hours. Contact the centre directly or through your hotel concierge. Entry is typically free but donations are appreciated.

Attend Cultural Programs

Participate in or observe cultural and educational programs that are occasionally held at the centre, including lectures, religious discussions, and community events. These programs offer authentic insights into contemporary Maldivian Islamic life.

Booking Tip: Programs are usually announced locally and may be in Dhivehi language. Check with local contacts or your accommodation for upcoming events. Most programs are free but may require advance registration.

Learn About Maldivian Islamic Heritage

Use your visit as an opportunity to understand the role of Islam in Maldivian society and history. The centre often has informational displays or staff who can explain the significance of Islamic traditions in the archipelago.

Booking Tip: Consider hiring a knowledgeable local guide who can provide cultural context and historical background. Guides typically charge $20-30 for a few hours and can enhance your understanding significantly.

Getting There

The Islamic Centre is located in Malé, the capital of the Maldives, which is accessible via Velana International Airport (formerly Ibrahim Nasir International Airport). From the airport, you'll need to take a speedboat or seaplane transfer to Malé, which takes about 10-15 minutes by speedboat. Once in Malé, the Islamic Centre is easily reachable on foot as the entire capital island can be walked across in about 20 minutes. Most visitors arrive in the Maldives for resort stays, but day trips to Malé can be arranged through resort concierges or local tour operators.

Getting Around

Malé is a compact island city where most attractions, including the Islamic Centre, are within walking distance of each other. The city measures only about 2 kilometers in length and 1 kilometer in width, making it easily navigable on foot. Local transportation includes taxis, which are readily available and inexpensive for short distances within the city. Bicycles can sometimes be rented from local shops, though the narrow streets can be crowded. For visitors staying at nearby resorts, organized tours often include transportation to and from Malé as part of cultural excursion packages.

Where to Stay

Malé City Center
Hulhumalé Island
Airport Island Vicinity
Vilimalé Island
Thilafushi Area
Local Guesthouses in Malé

Food & Dining

Malé offers a variety of dining options that cater to both local and international tastes, with all food being halal in accordance with Islamic dietary laws. Local restaurants serve traditional Maldivian cuisine featuring fresh fish, coconut, and rice-based dishes like mas huni (tuna and coconut breakfast) and fish curry. The capital has several cafes and restaurants near the Islamic Centre area, including local tea shops where you can try short eats (local snacks) and sweet tea. International cuisine is also available, with Indian, Sri Lankan, and Middle Eastern restaurants being particularly popular. Many eateries are casual and affordable, with meals typically costing $5-15 per person.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Male

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

View all food guides →

The Cloud Restaurant

4.7 /5
(284 reviews)

La Vera Pizzeria

4.6 /5
(241 reviews)

Al Tramonto Bar & Restaurant

4.6 /5
(192 reviews)

M6M Restaurant

4.8 /5
(178 reviews) 4

Cloud Signature

4.6 /5
(152 reviews)

Yellowfin Dine-in

4.5 /5
(155 reviews)

Looking for specific cuisines?

Local Cuisine Italian Japanese Fine Dining

When to Visit

The best time to visit the Islamic Centre and Malé is during the dry season from November to April, when there's less rainfall and more sunshine. However, the Maldives has a tropical climate year-round, so visits are possible any time. For visiting the mosque specifically, it's important to plan around the five daily prayer times when the mosque may be closed to tourists. Friday afternoons should be avoided as this is when the main weekly prayers take place and the mosque will be very busy with worshippers. Early morning or late afternoon visits often provide the most comfortable temperatures and better lighting for photography.

Insider Tips

Dress code is strictly enforced - bring modest clothing that covers arms and legs, and women should carry a headscarf as it may be required in certain areas of the complex
Remove shoes before entering any prayer areas and be respectful of worshippers by maintaining quiet behavior and avoiding flash photography inside the mosque
Combine your visit with exploring other nearby attractions in Malé such as the Old Friday Mosque, Sultan Park, and the local fish market to make the most of your time in the capital

Activities in Islamic Centre