The Hassan II Mosque is the most famous landmark in Casablanca and one of the largest mosques in the world. Built on the Atlantic shore, it is one of the few mosques in Morocco that non-Muslim visitors can enter, on a guided tour.
This guide covers the architecture, how visits work, what to wear and how to fit it into your route.
Commissioned by King Hassan II and opened in 1993, the mosque stands partly over the Atlantic. Its minaret is among the tallest in the world, and the prayer hall and courtyard can hold a very large number of worshippers. Craftsmen from across Morocco worked on the marble, carved cedar, plaster and zellige tilework.
Visitors who are not Muslim can enter only on a guided tour, which usually covers the main prayer hall and the lower levels. Tour times and ticket arrangements change, and the mosque is closed to tourists during prayer times, so always check the current schedule before you go. Book ahead in busy months.
Dress modestly: shoulders and knees covered for everyone, and women are usually asked to cover their hair only in the prayer areas. You will remove your shoes. Bring water, expect some wind on the esplanade and keep your camera for the exterior and the lit hall where photography is permitted.
Early morning tours are calmer, and the esplanade is lovely at sunset. Casablanca is pleasant in spring and autumn; see our best time to visit Morocco guide for planning.
Many travellers visit on the way between Marrakech, Rabat and Fes. Read our Casablanca guide for more to see in the city, and our Rabat guide for the nearby capital.
The mosque stands on the Atlantic seafront in Casablanca, a short taxi ride from the city centre and the main train stations. Allow time for traffic and arrive a little before your tour. Taxis are easy to find in the area, and parking is available nearby.
The large esplanade around the mosque is open to everyone and is a popular place to walk at sunset. The prayer hall is among the largest in the world, and the scale of the interior, the carved ceilings and the marble columns are what most visitors remember. A retractable roof and an underground level with traditional bathing rooms are part of the building.
Visiting hours and tour schedules can change during Ramadan, on Fridays and around prayer times. Always check the current schedule, and expect restrictions on entry outside tours.
Yes, on a guided tour. Check the current schedule and ticket options before you go.
About one hour for the guided tour, plus time for the esplanade and sea views.
Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees. You will remove your shoes inside.
It was completed in 1993 and designed by the French architect Michel Pinseau.
Yes, if you have time. It is one of Morocco’s most impressive buildings and an easy stop on the route.
We design private itineraries with driver and local guide, linking Casablanca, Rabat, Fes and Marrakech at a relaxed pace.
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