An old Al-Balad mosque tied to the early Islamic centuries and the Shafi'i school.
Shafei Mosque is among the oldest mosques in Jeddah, in the heart of Al-Balad close to Nasseef House. Local tradition ties its origins to the earliest Islamic centuries, and the mosque is named after the Shafi'i school of Islamic law followed by many Hejazis. The present structure is a rebuilt and restored building from later centuries, with a plain, elegant facade and a slim minaret set among coral-stone houses. It remains an active place of worship, with worshippers filling the lane at the five daily prayers. Visitors who are not Muslim view it from the outside and should not enter. It is a useful landmark for navigating Al-Balad and a quiet counterpoint to the nearby souqs. The visit itself is short, about 10 to 15 minutes.
| Admission | Free |
|---|---|
| Hours | Open for prayer; exterior viewable at any time |
| Address | Shafei Mosque, Al-Balad, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia |
Why it matters
One of the oldest and best-known mosques of Historic Jeddah.
Location
Shafei Mosque, Al-Balad, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
21.4833, 39.1866 View on map
Highlights
- See one of Jeddah's oldest mosque sites
- Photograph the minaret among coral-stone houses
- Use it as a landmark in Al-Balad
- Combine with Nasseef House next door
Tips for visiting
- View from outside only.
- Dress modestly.
- Avoid photographing worshippers.
- Visit between prayers.
- Check prayer times on an app such as Muslim Pro.
When to visit
Late afternoon between prayers.
Accessibility
Uneven lane in front; limited wheelchair access.
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Frequently asked questions
How old is Shafei Mosque?
Tradition links it to the early Islamic centuries; the current building is later.
Can non-Muslims enter?
No, they should view it from outside.
Is there a fee?
No.