Every mosque runs on a gentle code of good manners the Arabic tradition calls adab. None of it is complicated, and none of it is designed to catch a visitor out, the whole point is to keep the prayer space calm, clean and respectful for everyone. Learn these few customs once and you will feel at home in almost any mosque in the world. This guide sits within our overview of Visiting a mosque.
Dress modestly
Modest, clean clothing is the single most important courtesy. Both men and women should cover the shoulders and the knees; loose-fitting garments are better than tight ones. Women usually cover their hair with a scarf before entering the prayer hall, if you do not have one, many mosques keep spares by the door. There is no need for special or “traditional” clothing; ordinary modest dress is perfectly welcome.
Shoes off
Just inside the entrance you will find shoe racks or shelves. Remove your shoes here, before you step onto the carpet where people prostrate in prayer. The prayer hall is kept very clean precisely because worshippers press their foreheads to the floor, so keeping shoes off protects that cleanliness. A few chairs near the entrance help anyone who finds bending down difficult.
Ablution, if you wish to pray
If you intend to join a prayer, you first perform wudu, a brief, ordered washing of the hands, mouth, face, arms, head and feet, in the washrooms set aside for it. Visitors who are only observing do not need to do this. If you would like to understand the prayer itself, see our companion guide Prayer and worship in Islam.
Quiet, and phones on silent
A mosque is a place of concentration. Keep your voice low, switch your phone to silent, and avoid eating or drinking in the prayer hall. If a prayer begins while you are inside, simply pause your conversation and wait; it will be over in a few minutes.
Behaviour during prayer
When worshippers line up in rows, a clear rule of respect applies: do not walk directly in front of a person who is praying, as this passes through the space between them and the direction of prayer. Move behind the rows instead. As a visitor you are never expected to take part. You are welcome to sit quietly and watch. If you would like to know exactly where to stand or sit on arrival, our step-by-step guide Your first visit to a mosque walks you through it.
Photography and filming
Mosque architecture is beautiful and photographs are often welcome, but always ask first. Never photograph people at prayer without their consent, avoid flash, and put the camera away if anyone seems uncomfortable. On organised open days, hosts usually tell visitors in advance when and where photography is taking place.
A few extra courtesies
- Greet your hosts warmly; a smile and a simple “thank you” go a long way.
- Follow signs or guidance about separate entrances or prayer areas for women and men.
- Do not bring alcohol, and avoid strong perfumes that might disturb others.
- Ask questions, mosque communities generally love to explain their faith and their building.
Good etiquette is really just thoughtfulness in action. With these customs in mind, visitors of any background are made to feel welcome, a point we explore further in Can non-Muslims visit a mosque?. When you are ready, find mosques near you and put your new confidence to use.