Omar Makram Mosque: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Comprehensive Cairo Historical Sites Guide

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

Omar Makram Mosque, perched on the northern edge of Cairo’s iconic Tahrir Square, is an enduring symbol of Egypt’s dynamic history, urban culture, and Islamic architectural heritage. As a landmark deeply interwoven into Cairo’s civic and spiritual life, the mosque is both a revered place of worship and a vibrant hub for national ceremonies, community engagement, and cultural exchange. Named for Omar Makram, a national hero of the early 19th century, the mosque invites visitors to explore its unique blend of neo-Mamluk architecture, historical significance, and community role.

This guide provides detailed, non-redundant information about Omar Makram Mosque’s visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, etiquette, and travel tips. It also offers practical advice for exploring other historical sites in Cairo, ensuring visitors make the most of their journey through Egypt’s capital.

For further reading, see resources from Artforum, ETB Tours Egypt, and Cairo Tours Planner.

Table of Contents

Historical Context and Foundation

Omar Makram Mosque’s story is closely tied to Egypt’s modern nation-building. Constructed in 1948, it occupies a strategic urban location adjoining Tahrir Square and the Mogamma‘ government building. The mosque honors Omar Makram, a religious leader who led Egyptian resistance against the French occupation in 1800 and later opposed Muhammad Ali’s autocratic rule. In front of the mosque, a statue of Makram—erected in 2003—reinforces its role as a space of public memory and national pride (Artforum).

The mosque’s inception coincided with the transformation of Tahrir Square into a focal point of modern Egyptian civic life, reflecting the city’s blend of Western urban planning and Islamic tradition. Its presence alongside landmarks like the Egyptian Museum and the Arab League Building highlights its enduring civic and symbolic significance.


Architectural Design and Features

Neo-Mamluk Heritage

Designed by Mario Rossi, a prominent architect for Egypt’s Waqf Ministry, Omar Makram Mosque exemplifies the neo-Mamluk style—a modern revival and reinterpretation of the celebrated Mamluk architectural era (1250–1517). Rossi’s design features pointed arches, intricate stonework, geometric and arabesque decoration, and a prominent octagonal minaret, all executed with a sense of modern restraint and elegance (Artforum).

Interior Layout

The prayer hall is spacious, illuminated by large windows that create a tranquil atmosphere. The mihrab (prayer niche) is adorned with traditional motifs, and the minbar (pulpit) is carved from fine wood. The mosque’s interior avoids excessive ornamentation, focusing instead on the purity of form and quality of materials (ETB Tours Egypt).

Urban Integration

Unlike many traditional mosques with central courtyards, Omar Makram Mosque features a forecourt suited to its urban context. This space serves as a buffer from the bustle of Tahrir Square and as a venue for large funerary gatherings, underlining the mosque’s dual civic and religious function.


Visiting Information

Visiting Hours

  • General Hours: Open daily, typically from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with extended access for worshippers during prayer times.
  • Best Time to Visit: Mid-morning or early afternoon is ideal. Avoid Fridays and religious festivals, when the mosque is crowded or access for non-Muslims is restricted (Adequate Travel).

Tickets & Admission

  • Entry Fee: Free for all visitors. Donations are appreciated, especially if you receive a headscarf or shoe cover upon entry (Day in My Dreams).
  • Booking: No advance booking or ticket is required.

Dress Code & Etiquette

  • Attire: Modest clothing is compulsory for all visitors. Women should cover their hair with a scarf, and both genders must cover arms and legs (Egypt Tours Plus).
  • Footwear: Shoes must be removed before entering the prayer hall. A shoe custodian is usually present; tipping is customary (The Intrepid Guide).
  • Behavior: Maintain respectful silence, avoid loud conversations, and do not photograph worshippers without consent.

Photography

  • Permitted: Courtyard and exterior.
  • Restricted: Interior photography often requires permission, especially during prayers or funerals. No flash photography (Day in My Dreams).

Accessibility

  • The mosque is accessible at street level, but interior steps and uneven surfaces may pose challenges. Wheelchair users or visitors with mobility needs should arrange assistance in advance (That Travel).

Facilities

  • Ablution Areas: Separate for men and women.
  • Restrooms: Basic, so carry tissues and hand sanitizer.
  • Shops & Cafés: None on site, but Tahrir Square offers many options nearby.

How to Get There

  • By Metro: Take Cairo Metro to Sadat Station (Tahrir Square), then walk 5 minutes north.
  • By Taxi/Ride-Hailing: All major services operate in downtown Cairo.
  • By Foot: Easily reachable from many downtown hotels and attractions.

Nearby Attractions

  • Tahrir Square: The epicenter of Cairo’s modern history and political life.
  • Egyptian Museum: Home to thousands of ancient artifacts.
  • Arab League Building: Important diplomatic site.
  • Nile Corniche: Scenic riverside promenade.

Cultural and Community Role

Omar Makram Mosque is more than an architectural monument—it is a living center for Cairo’s spiritual, civic, and social life. It hosts daily prayers, major religious ceremonies, funerals of prominent figures, and national commemorations (Cairo Tours Planner). The mosque actively engages in social welfare by distributing food, aiding orphans, and supporting local charitable initiatives, especially during Ramadan.

The mosque also encourages interfaith and cross-cultural engagement, welcoming non-Muslim visitors and providing educational materials and guided tours. Its openness is a testament to Cairo’s tradition of tolerance and cultural exchange.


Tips for Your Visit

  • Plan around prayer times to ensure access and a quieter experience.
  • Dress appropriately—women should bring a scarf, and all visitors should wear modest clothing.
  • Carry small change for tips and donations.
  • Bring water and snacks as facilities are basic.
  • Check event schedules in advance for funerals or special events that may affect access.
  • Hire a local guide for historical and architectural insights, especially if you do not speak Arabic (Egypt United Tours).
  • Stay vigilant with personal belongings, especially in crowded areas around Tahrir Square.

FAQ

Q: What are the Omar Makram Mosque visiting hours?
A: Typically from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily, outside of prayer times. Hours may vary during festivals.

Q: Is there an entrance fee or ticket required?
A: No, entry is free. Donations are welcome.

Q: Can non-Muslims visit?
A: Yes, non-Muslims are welcome outside of prayer times, provided they dress modestly.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, through local tour operators and private guides.

Q: Is the mosque accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Limited accessibility; visitors with mobility needs should inquire in advance.

Q: Is photography allowed?
A: Yes, in exterior and courtyard areas. Permission is required inside.


Visuals and Media Suggestions

  • High-quality images of the mosque’s exterior, minaret, prayer hall, and forecourt (alt tags: “Exterior of Omar Makram Mosque in Cairo,” “Omar Makram Mosque minaret detail,” “Interior prayer hall of Omar Makram Mosque”).
  • Interactive map of Tahrir Square showing the mosque’s location.
  • Consider a virtual tour for online visitors.

References


Omar Makram Mosque is a living testament to Cairo’s multifaceted heritage, blending faith, architecture, and civic life. A visit offers not just the chance to admire beautiful design but to engage with Egypt’s ongoing story of unity, resilience, and cultural exchange. For up-to-date information, travel tips, and guided itineraries, download the Audiala app or follow trusted platforms for Cairo’s historical sites.

Visit The Most Interesting Places In Cairo

57357 Hospital
57357 Hospital
6Th October Bridge
6Th October Bridge
Ablaq Palace
Ablaq Palace
Agricultural Museum
Agricultural Museum
Ahmad Katkhuda Mosque
Ahmad Katkhuda Mosque
Ahmed Shawki Museum
Ahmed Shawki Museum
Aisha Fahmy Palace
Aisha Fahmy Palace
Al-Fath Mosque
Al-Fath Mosque
Al-Gawhara Palace
Al-Gawhara Palace
Al-Nasir Muhammad Mosque
Al-Nasir Muhammad Mosque
Al-Rahman Al-Rahim Mosque
Al-Rahman Al-Rahim Mosque
Amir Qijmas Al-Ishaqi Mosque
Amir Qijmas Al-Ishaqi Mosque
Annunciation Cathedral, Cairo
Annunciation Cathedral, Cairo
Apostolic Nunciature To Egypt
Apostolic Nunciature To Egypt
Bab Al-Azab
Bab Al-Azab
Bab Al-Nasr
Bab Al-Nasr
Bab Zuweila
Bab Zuweila
Bayt Al-Razzaz Palace
Bayt Al-Razzaz Palace
Cairo Citadel
Cairo Citadel
Cairo Opera House
Cairo Opera House
Cairo Stadium Indoor Halls Complex
Cairo Stadium Indoor Halls Complex
Capital International Airport
Capital International Airport
Church Of The Virgin Mary
Church Of The Virgin Mary
City Of The Dead
City Of The Dead
Corniche El-Nil Street
Corniche El-Nil Street
Demerdash Mosque
Demerdash Mosque
Egyptian Geographic Society Museum
Egyptian Geographic Society Museum
Egyptian Military College
Egyptian Military College
Egyptian Museum
Egyptian Museum
Egyptian Postal Museum
Egyptian Postal Museum
Egyptian Railway Museum
Egyptian Railway Museum
El Mataria
El Mataria
Embassy Of Indonesia, Cairo
Embassy Of Indonesia, Cairo
Embassy Of Japan, Cairo
Embassy Of Japan, Cairo
Embassy Of Norway, Cairo
Embassy Of Norway, Cairo
Embassy Of Sweden, Cairo
Embassy Of Sweden, Cairo
Embassy Of The United States, Cairo
Embassy Of The United States, Cairo
Embassy Of Ukraine, Cairo
Embassy Of Ukraine, Cairo
Emir Qurqumas Complex
Emir Qurqumas Complex
Ets Hayim Synagogue
Ets Hayim Synagogue
Gamal Abdel Nasser Mosque
Gamal Abdel Nasser Mosque
Gamal Eddin Youssef Istadar Mosque
Gamal Eddin Youssef Istadar Mosque
Gehaz El Reyada Stadium
Gehaz El Reyada Stadium
Gezira Center For Modern Art
Gezira Center For Modern Art
Giza Pyramids
Giza Pyramids
Ḩadīqat Al Azbakīyah
Ḩadīqat Al Azbakīyah
Heliopolis University
Heliopolis University
House Of Al-Harawy
House Of Al-Harawy
House Of Jamal Al-Din Al-Dhahabi
House Of Jamal Al-Din Al-Dhahabi
House Of Zaynab Khatun
House Of Zaynab Khatun
Imbaba Bridge
Imbaba Bridge
Institute For Arabic Music Building
Institute For Arabic Music Building
Khan El-Khalili
Khan El-Khalili
Khanqah Of Baybars Ii
Khanqah Of Baybars Ii
Maadi Armed Forces Medical Complex
Maadi Armed Forces Medical Complex
|
  Madrasa Of Amir Sunqur Sa'Di
| Madrasa Of Amir Sunqur Sa'Di
Madrasa Of Mithqal Al Anuqi
Madrasa Of Mithqal Al Anuqi
Madrasa Of Sarghatmish
Madrasa Of Sarghatmish
Madrasa Of Uljay Al-Yusufi
Madrasa Of Uljay Al-Yusufi
Madrasah Al Kamiliya
Madrasah Al Kamiliya
Madrassa Of Al-Nasir Muhammad
Madrassa Of Al-Nasir Muhammad
Mahmud Al-Kurdi Mosque
Mahmud Al-Kurdi Mosque
Mashyakhat Al-Azhar
Mashyakhat Al-Azhar
Mausoleum Of Sayyida Ruqayya
Mausoleum Of Sayyida Ruqayya
Mausoleum Of Shajarat Al-Durr
Mausoleum Of Shajarat Al-Durr
Military Medical Academy
Military Medical Academy
Misr University For Science And Technology
Misr University For Science And Technology
Modern Academy For Engineering & Technology
Modern Academy For Engineering & Technology
Modern Sciences And Arts University
Modern Sciences And Arts University
Mosque And Khanqah Of Shaykhu
Mosque And Khanqah Of Shaykhu
Mosque-Madrassa Of Sultan Barquq
Mosque-Madrassa Of Sultan Barquq
Mosque Of Aitmisch Al-Bagasi
Mosque Of Aitmisch Al-Bagasi
Mosque Of Al-Mahmudiya
Mosque Of Al-Mahmudiya
Mosque Of Al-Malika Safiyya
Mosque Of Al-Malika Safiyya
Mosque Of Aslam Al-Silahdar
Mosque Of Aslam Al-Silahdar
Mosque Of Ibn Tulun
Mosque Of Ibn Tulun
Mosque Of Qanibay Al-Muhammadi
Mosque Of Qanibay Al-Muhammadi
|
  Mosque Of Qaytbay (Qal'At Al-Kabsh)
| Mosque Of Qaytbay (Qal'At Al-Kabsh)
Mosque of Sayyida Sukayna
Mosque of Sayyida Sukayna
Mosque Of Taghribirdi
Mosque Of Taghribirdi
Mosque of Ulmas al-Hajib
Mosque of Ulmas al-Hajib
Mosque-Sabil Of Sulayman Agha Al-Silahdar
Mosque-Sabil Of Sulayman Agha Al-Silahdar
|
  Moussa Dar'I Synagogue
| Moussa Dar'I Synagogue
Muhammad Ali Mosque
Muhammad Ali Mosque
Muhammad Bek Abu El Dahab Complex
Muhammad Bek Abu El Dahab Complex
Mukhtar Museum
Mukhtar Museum
Museum Of Islamic Art
Museum Of Islamic Art
Museum Of Islamic Ceramics
Museum Of Islamic Ceramics
National Museum Of Egyptian Civilization
National Museum Of Egyptian Civilization
National Police Museum
National Police Museum
Nile Fountain
Nile Fountain
Omar Makram Mosque
Omar Makram Mosque
Opera Square
Opera Square
Palace Of Said Halim Pasha
Palace Of Said Halim Pasha
Police Academy Stadium
Police Academy Stadium
Pyramid Of Khafre
Pyramid Of Khafre
Pyramids Of Queens
Pyramids Of Queens
Qasr Al-Nil Bridge
Qasr Al-Nil Bridge
Ramses Square
Ramses Square
Sabil-Kuttab Of Khusraw Pasha
Sabil-Kuttab Of Khusraw Pasha
Sakakini Palace
Sakakini Palace
Saliba Street
Saliba Street
Salihiyya Madrasa
Salihiyya Madrasa
Sayeda Aisha Mosque
Sayeda Aisha Mosque
Schahin Agha Mosque
Schahin Agha Mosque
Shepheard Hotel
Shepheard Hotel
Sultan Qaytbay Roda Mosque
Sultan Qaytbay Roda Mosque
Taha Hussein Museum
Taha Hussein Museum
Tahra Palace
Tahra Palace
Tahrir Square
Tahrir Square
Talaat Harb Street
Talaat Harb Street
The Great Sphinx
The Great Sphinx
Tomb Of Salar And Sangar-Al-Gawli
Tomb Of Salar And Sangar-Al-Gawli
Tora Prison
Tora Prison
Valley Temple Of Khafre
Valley Temple Of Khafre
|
  Wikala Of Bazar'A
| Wikala Of Bazar'A
Wikala Of Qaytbay
Wikala Of Qaytbay