Things to Do at Sabah State Mosque

Complete Guide to Sabah State Mosque in Kotakinabalu

About Sabah State Mosque

The Sabah State Mosque, known locally as Masjid Negeri Sabah, is one of Kota Kinabalu's most magnificent architectural landmarks and the largest mosque in the state. Built in 1977 and officially opened in 2000, this stunning mosque showcases contemporary Islamic architecture with its distinctive golden dome and elegant minarets that dominate the city's skyline. The mosque can accommodate up to 12,000 worshippers and serves as the main place of worship for Kota Kinabalu's Muslim community. The mosque's design beautifully blends modern architectural elements with traditional Islamic motifs, featuring intricate geometric patterns, Arabic calligraphy, and spacious prayer halls adorned with beautiful chandeliers. Set against the backdrop of lush tropical gardens and reflecting pools, the mosque creates a serene and spiritual atmosphere that attracts both worshippers and visitors from around the world. Its strategic location in the heart of Kota Kinabalu makes it easily accessible and a must-visit destination for those interested in Islamic culture and architecture.

What to See & Do

Golden Dome

Marvel at the impressive golden dome that crowns the mosque, visible from various points across Kota Kinabalu and particularly stunning during sunset

Main Prayer Hall

Explore the spacious main prayer hall with its beautiful Islamic geometric patterns, ornate chandeliers, and intricate Arabic calligraphy

Minarets

Admire the four elegant minarets that rise majestically from the mosque's corners, representing traditional Islamic architectural elements

Reflecting Pools and Gardens

Stroll through the peaceful landscaped gardens surrounding the mosque, featuring reflecting pools that mirror the building's beautiful architecture

Islamic Art and Calligraphy

Appreciate the detailed Islamic artwork, geometric tile work, and beautiful Arabic calligraphy that adorns the interior walls and ceilings

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Open daily from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM for non-Muslim visitors. Closed during prayer times (5 times daily) and on Fridays during Jummah prayers (12:00 PM - 2:30 PM)

Tickets & Pricing

Free admission for all visitors. Donations are welcomed but not mandatory

Best Time to Visit

Early morning (8:00-10:00 AM) or late afternoon (3:00-4:00 PM) for cooler temperatures and better lighting for photography. Avoid prayer times

Suggested Duration

1-2 hours for a complete visit including photography and peaceful contemplation

Getting There

The Sabah State Mosque is located in the city center of Kota Kinabalu, approximately 8 kilometers from Kota Kinabalu International Airport. Visitors can easily reach the mosque by taxi (15-20 minutes from the airport, RM25-35), Grab ride-hailing service, or rental car. Local city buses also serve the area, with several routes stopping near the mosque. For those staying in the city center, the mosque is within walking distance of many hotels and can be reached on foot in 10-15 minutes from popular areas like Gaya Street or the waterfront.

Things to Do Nearby

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Another beautiful mosque built on stilts over Likas Bay, offering stunning water reflections and sunset views
this destination
Elevated viewpoint offering panoramic views of Kota Kinabalu city, the mosque, and the South China Sea
Gaya Street Sunday Market
Vibrant weekly market featuring local handicrafts, street food, and cultural performances, held every Sunday morning
Kota Kinabalu Waterfront
Scenic boardwalk along the coast with restaurants, bars, and beautiful sunset views over the islands
Sabah Museum
Comprehensive museum showcasing Sabah's rich cultural heritage, natural history, and indigenous traditions

Tips & Advice

Dress modestly with long pants and sleeves; women must cover their hair with a headscarf when entering the mosque
Remove shoes before entering the prayer halls and carry them in the provided plastic bags
Visit during non-prayer times to avoid disrupting worshippers and ensure full access to all areas
Bring a camera for the stunning architecture, but ask permission before photographing people and avoid flash photography inside

Tours & Activities at Sabah State Mosque