Visitor Guide
What to expect when visiting an Islamic centre and mosque, written for first-time visitors, neighbors, students, and community members.
Visiting an Islamic centre for the first time
Mosques have traditionally been open places, and many people visit them to learn, to attend a prayer, or simply to meet their Muslim neighbors. This guide explains what visitors can generally expect and how to make a visit comfortable for everyone.
The guidance below describes widely shared customs in mosques in the United States and around the world. Practices can differ from one centre to another. For the current arrangements at the Burmese Islamic Association of Colorado, including whether a time is suitable for your visit, please email us before you come.
Before you visit
Arranging your visit ahead of time is the best way to make sure someone is available to welcome you and answer your questions. It also lets you choose a time that suits the purpose of your visit, whether you want to see the space quietly or observe a congregational prayer.
When you contact us, it helps to tell us
- Your name and a preferred date and time.
- How many people will come, and whether you are visiting as a group.
- The purpose of your visit, for example learning about Islam, a class assignment, or getting to know your neighbors.
- Any accessibility needs, so we can tell you what to expect.
What a mosque is
A mosque, called a masjid in Arabic, meaning "place of prostration", is a place set apart for prayer. Muslims are taught to pray five times a day, and many try to pray in congregation at a mosque when they can. The weekly congregational prayer on Friday, called Jumu'ah, includes a short sermon and is usually the best-attended prayer of the week.
Beyond prayer, mosques are often places of learning and community life. People study the Qur'an and other religious subjects, families meet one another, and the community comes together during religious occasions such as the month of Ramadan and the two Eid festivals.
Mosques usually have no statues, pictures of people, or altars. Instead, you will typically see an open carpeted prayer area, a niche in the wall called the mihrab that shows the direction of Mecca, and often a raised platform called the minbar from which the Friday sermon is given.
Etiquette and dress
Visitors are not expected to know every custom. Your hosts will be glad to guide you. These general points will help you feel at ease.
Modest dress
Wear loose, comfortable clothing that covers the arms and legs. Women are commonly asked to cover their hair with a scarf while in the prayer area; bringing one is appreciated. Men should avoid shorts.
Shoes off
Shoes are removed before entering the prayer area to keep the carpet clean for prayer. There is usually a shoe rack near the entrance. Clean socks are a good idea.
Quiet and respect
Speak quietly, silence your phone, and avoid walking directly in front of someone who is praying. Ask before taking photographs, especially of people.
Greetings
A common greeting is "As-salamu alaykum" ("Peace be upon you"). Some Muslims prefer not to shake hands with members of the opposite sex; it is polite to wait and follow your host's lead.
Seating and spaces
Many mosques have separate prayer spaces or rows for men and women. Your host will show you where to sit or stand. Sitting on the carpet is normal; chairs are often available for those who need them.
Questions welcome
Visitors often have questions about Islam, prayer, or Muslim life. Asking respectfully is welcome; your hosts will answer as best they can.
Observing a prayer
Visitors are generally welcome to observe a congregational prayer. Before the prayer begins you will hear the call to prayer, the adhan. Worshippers then stand in straight rows behind a prayer leader, the imam, facing the same direction.
The prayer follows a set sequence of standing, bowing, prostrating with the forehead to the ground, and sitting, with recitation in Arabic. A congregational prayer typically lasts only a few minutes, although the Friday prayer is longer because it includes a sermon.
As an observer
- Sit quietly at the back or side of the prayer area, or where your host suggests.
- You do not need to join in. Watching respectfully is perfectly acceptable.
- Avoid walking in front of people while they pray.
- Save your questions for after the prayer has finished.
Prayer times change every day because they follow the position of the sun. Please contact us for current prayer times before you visit.
Common terms you may hear
- MasjidArabic for mosque: a place of prayer.
- SalahThe ritual prayer, performed five times a day.
- AdhanThe call to prayer announcing that prayer time has begun.
- ImamThe person who leads the congregational prayer.
- Jumu'ahThe Friday midday congregational prayer, which includes a sermon.
- KhutbahThe sermon given before the Friday prayer.
- WuduThe washing of hands, face, arms and feet before prayer.
- Qur'anThe holy book of Islam.
- RamadanThe month of fasting from dawn to sunset.
- EidThe two main Islamic festivals, Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.
School, faith, and community groups
Teachers, students, interfaith groups, and community organizations sometimes visit mosques to learn about Islam and the Muslim community. If you are planning a group visit, please contact the association well in advance so that we can tell you whether a visit can be arranged and at what time.
Please let us know the size of the group, the age range of participants, and any topics you hope to learn about.
Planning a visit?
Email us before you come so we can share current arrangements and make sure someone is available to welcome you.
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