Things to Do at Sabah State Mosque

Complete Guide to Sabah State Mosque in Kotakinabalu

About Sabah State Mosque

The Sabah State Mosque (Masjid Negeri Sabah) stands as one of Kota Kinabalu's most magnificent architectural landmarks, completed in 2000 as the largest mosque in Sabah. This stunning Islamic structure features contemporary Islamic architecture with traditional Malay elements, crowned by a distinctive golden dome and four towering minarets that reach 116 meters into the sky. The mosque can accommodate up to 12,000 worshippers and serves as the state's main Islamic center. Situated on a 10-hectare site in Sembulan, the mosque is beautifully positioned near the sea with the majestic Mount Kinabalu providing a dramatic backdrop. The building's design incorporates modern engineering with Islamic geometric patterns, creating a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. The mosque's serene lagoon and landscaped gardens add to its peaceful ambiance, making it not only a place of worship but also a symbol of Sabah's Islamic heritage and architectural prowess.

What to See & Do

Golden Dome and Minarets

Marvel at the impressive golden dome and four towering minarets that dominate Kota Kinabalu's skyline, offering spectacular photo opportunities

Main Prayer Hall

Admire the vast prayer hall with its intricate Islamic calligraphy, beautiful carpets, and stunning chandelier that can accommodate thousands of worshippers

Mosque Gardens and Lagoon

Stroll through the peaceful landscaped gardens surrounding the mosque and enjoy the tranquil artificial lagoon with mountain views

Islamic Architecture Details

Explore the beautiful geometric patterns, arches, and Islamic design elements that showcase contemporary mosque architecture

Sunset Views

Experience breathtaking sunset views from the mosque grounds with Mount Kinabalu silhouetted against the evening sky

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Open daily 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM (closed during prayer times for non-Muslims: 12:30-2:30 PM Fridays, and during the 5 daily prayers)

Tickets & Pricing

Free admission for all visitors

Best Time to Visit

Early morning (8-10 AM) or late afternoon (4-6 PM) for cooler weather and beautiful lighting; avoid Friday afternoons due to congregational prayers

Suggested Duration

1-2 hours for a complete visit including grounds and photography

Getting There

The Sabah State Mosque is located in Sembulan, approximately 3 kilometers from Kota Kinabalu city center. Visitors can reach the mosque by taxi or Grab (10-15 minutes from downtown, costing around RM10-15). Local buses also serve the area, with several routes passing near the mosque. For those driving, ample parking is available on the mosque grounds. The mosque is easily recognizable from a distance due to its prominent golden dome and minarets visible throughout the city.

Things to Do Nearby

Kota Kinabalu City Mosque
Another beautiful floating mosque built on Likas Bay lagoon, famous for its stunning water reflections
Tanjung Aru Beach
Popular beach destination known for spectacular sunsets and beachfront dining, just 15 minutes away
Sabah Museum
State museum showcasing Sabah's cultural heritage, traditional artifacts, and natural history
Signal Hill Observatory
Hilltop viewpoint offering panoramic views of Kota Kinabalu city and surrounding islands
KK Esplanade
Waterfront promenade perfect for evening walks with views of the South China Sea and nearby islands

Tips & Advice

Dress modestly with long pants and sleeves; women should bring a headscarf and wear loose-fitting clothes covering arms and legs
Remove shoes before entering the mosque and carry them in the provided plastic bags
Visit during non-prayer times to explore freely and avoid disrupting worshippers
Bring a camera for stunning architecture shots, but be respectful and avoid photographing people praying

Tours & Activities at Sabah State Mosque