The new Sultan Qaboos Mosque was conceived as a regional-size mosque in 2009.
Being the spiritual and religious capital of Oman, Nizwa is a fitting location to be home to a major mosque second only to the Grand Mosque in Muscat. Simplicity of form and selective use of decoration are characteristics that distinguish the new mosque from those in other regions.
The four minarets give the building a unique quality, reinforcing its position as a major landmark for the community it serves. The building colour and materials reflect what is traditionally used in the area.
The planning is simple and functional, with a clear separation between the main spiritual part of the mosque, i.e. the Main Prayer Hall, and other functions, such as ablution area, library and classrooms.
This separation is achieved by two open sahans on the north and south and one shaded sahan to the east where the grand entrance is located. Study of the local architecture was done with particular reference to characteristic pattern-work, which forms the decorative elements of the project.
Times of Oman