Fanar – Islamic Cultural Center

Abdulla Bin Zaid Al Mahmoud Islamic Cultural Center (abbreviated Bin Zaid, originally Fanar or Qatar Islamic Culture Center and Spiral Mosque) is a cultural institution in Doha, Qatar. It is a significant landmark in the city and is located near the Doha Corniche.

The mosque, with its distinctive minaret style, is the center’s most notable landmark. Prior to 2009, Fanar’s mosque was the country’s largest. It has subsequently been surpassed in this category by the Imam Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab Mosque, however it remains Qatar’s tallest mosque.

The mosque was named after Sheikh Abdulla bin Zaid Al-Mahmoud, a notable Qatari Islamic philosopher and the originator of the Qatari judicial system. The name was given by the Emir of Qatar to honor his achievements as Qatar’s chief judge during his term.

Fanar Culture Center participates in a variety of social, religious, and educational events. In addition to housing one of Qatar’s largest mosques, the institute publishes religious research and offers Arabic and Islam education. There is also a library in the facility. The mosque is a renowned tourist destination that welcomes non-Muslims.

Traditional Qatari mosques were made of coral rock, mud, and wood, as opposed to modern mosques made of brick and mortar. These materials now enable the building of towering domes, which will eventually replace flat roofs. Furthermore, old mosques included courtyards, which are uncommon in modern mosques. Finally, wash basins and flowing water have replaced the customary outdoor “mothawaddah” in the form of a pool.