Geneva Mosque

Geneva Mosque Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Nestled in Geneva’s cosmopolitan Petit-Saconnex district, the Geneva Mosque (Grande Mosquée de Genève, also known as Centre Culturel Islamique Sunnite de Genève) stands as Switzerland’s largest mosque and a beacon of religious tolerance, cultural diversity, and architectural elegance. Since its inauguration in 1978, the mosque has evolved into not only a place of worship but also a thriving community and educational center, reflecting Geneva’s international character and multicultural heritage. Located close to major institutions like the United Nations headquarters and the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum, the mosque actively promotes interfaith dialogue, cultural exchange, and social integration.

This guide provides comprehensive information for planning your visit, including current visiting hours, entry policies, architectural highlights, visitor etiquette, accessibility details, and nearby attractions. You’ll also find insights into the mosque’s history, management reforms, and its continuing role as a symbol of peaceful coexistence. Whether you are a history buff, a cultural explorer, or a curious traveler, this resource will help you make the most of your visit to one of Geneva’s most significant religious and cultural landmarks. For the latest updates, always refer to the mosque’s official website and additional cultural resources (Swissinfo; Centre Culturel Islamique; TripXL).

Historical Development of the Geneva Mosque
- Origins and Construction
- Architecture and Community Significance
Visitor Information
Management and Governance
Key Milestones
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Planning Your Visit: Tips & Resources
Conclusion
Sources

Historical Development of the Geneva Mosque

Origins and Construction

Constructed in 1978, the Geneva Mosque was established during a time of expanding Muslim migration to Western Europe. The project was largely funded by the Saudi Arabia-based Muslim World League (MWL) (Swissinfo; TripXL), and the inauguration was attended by King Khaled Bin Abdulaziz of Saudi Arabia and the President of the Swiss Confederation. The mosque quickly became a central place of worship and a symbol of cross-cultural collaboration (FCIGeneve).

Architecture and Community Significance

Designed by Swiss-based Turkish architect Oosman Gordogan, the Geneva Mosque exemplifies a harmonious blend of traditional Islamic design and European modernism (Muslim Mosques). The structure features an octagonal dome with tinted glass windows, a slender 22-meter minaret, and a marble-clad veranda. Inside, the spacious prayer hall is adorned with a pink-and-white carpet, a wooden minbar, and a finely crafted mihrab.

With a capacity for 1,500 worshippers, the mosque serves as a focal point for over 100 nationalities in Geneva’s Muslim community. Beyond religious services, it hosts community events, educational programs, interfaith dialogues, and cultural exhibitions, making it a hub for cultural exchange and integration (Trek.Zone; TripXL).

Visitor Information

Location and Accessibility

Address: The mosque is most commonly cited as located at Rue de Vermont 20 (sometimes 18bis Rue de Vermont) in Petit-Saconnex, Geneva, with an alternative reference as 104 Route de Lausanne, depending on the entrance. It lies close to the United Nations headquarters and other international organizations (Centre Culturel Islamique; geneve.com).

Getting There: Easily reached by Geneva’s efficient tram and bus network (notably bus lines 5 and 8 to Vidollet station) and offering ample parking nearby. Visitors staying in official accommodations receive a free Geneva public transport card (geneve.com).

Accessibility: The mosque is wheelchair accessible, with ramps at entrances and accessible restrooms (geneve.com).

Visiting Hours & Entry Fees

Normal Opening Hours: Daily from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Hours may vary during religious holidays or special events (FCIGeneve; Centre Culturel Islamique).
Prayers: Non-Muslim visitors are welcome outside of prayer times, especially avoiding Friday noon prayers (Jumu’ah), which are busiest.
Entry Fees: Entry is free for all visitors. Donations are appreciated to support community initiatives.

Guided Tours and Special Events

Guided Tours: Available by prior arrangement for individuals, groups, and schools. Tours offer insights into the mosque’s architecture, religious practices, and community role (visitmymosque.org).
Special Events: The mosque periodically hosts open days, interfaith forums, and cultural exhibitions. Check the official site for upcoming events.

Visitor Etiquette

Dress Code: Modest attire is required. Men should wear long trousers and sleeved shirts; women should wear long skirts or pants and sleeved tops. A headscarf for women is appreciated but not mandatory (learnreligions.com; visitmymosque.org).
Shoes: Remove shoes before entering prayer spaces. Slip-on shoes are practical (learnreligions.com).
Photography: Permitted in exterior areas; inside, always ask permission, especially during prayers.
Behavior: Maintain silence and respectful conduct. Mobile phones should be silenced. Avoid eating or drinking inside prayer areas (theislamicinformation.com).
Gender Interaction: Greetings and handshakes are generally among the same gender; wait for cues when greeting the opposite gender.

Nearby Attractions & Local Amenities

Notable Sites: Palais des Nations (UN Headquarters), International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum, Parc de l’Ariana, and Lake Geneva (geneve.com).
Dining: A range of halal and Middle Eastern restaurants, as well as traditional Swiss options, are available nearby (thiscityknows.com).
Accommodation: Options range from modern hotels like Ruby Claire Hotel Geneva to luxury stays such as Domaine de Chateauvieux (thedanaedition.com).
Facilities: Ablution areas, accessible restrooms, a bookshop, and an information desk are available on site.

Management and Governance

Initially managed by the Islamic Cultural Foundation of Geneva (FCIG) with oversight from the MWL, concerns about foreign influence and transparency led to significant reforms. Since 2017–2018, leadership has transitioned to a Swiss executive board, shifting financial support from foreign donors to local contributions and enhancing democratic governance (Swissinfo; RTS; Swissinfo). The mosque remains a focal point for religious, educational, and social activities, fostering integration and positive community relations (TripXL).

Key Milestones

Year	Milestone
1978	Inauguration by King Khaled Bin Abdulaziz and Swiss President
2014	Financial transparency introduced with cantonal audits
2015–2017	Investigations lead to staff changes and increased oversight
2017–2018	Transition to Swiss-led management
2020s	Full transition to Swiss executive board with expanded interfaith and educational programs

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Geneva Mosque visiting hours?
A: Daily from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, but check the official website for updates and holiday changes.

Q: Is there an entry fee or are tickets required?
A: Entry is free. Donations are appreciated.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, by prior arrangement. Check with mosque administration.

Q: Is the mosque accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, it is wheelchair accessible with appropriate facilities.

Q: Can non-Muslims visit the mosque?
A: Yes, non-Muslims are welcome, especially outside prayer times.

Q: Are there halal dining options nearby?
A: Yes, a variety of halal and Middle Eastern restaurants are located close to the mosque.

Q: Is photography allowed?
A: Allowed outside; inside, seek permission, especially during prayers.

Planning Your Visit: Tips & Resources

Punctuality: Arrive on time for tours or appointments (holidaystoswitzerland.com).
Language: French is the official language, but English is widely spoken.
Environmental Responsibility: Maintain cleanliness in the mosque and surrounding areas.

Explore more:

Virtual Gallery:

Conclusion

Since opening its doors in 1978, the Geneva Mosque has grown from a Saudi-funded landmark into a locally governed institution known for transparency, interfaith engagement, and cultural exchange. Its unique blend of Islamic and European architectural elements reflects Geneva’s multicultural spirit, while its programs foster understanding and integration. Welcoming visitors of all backgrounds, the mosque offers guided tours, educational events, and the chance to discover Geneva’s vibrant Muslim community alongside other historic sites. For up-to-date details, always consult the official website and consider using the Audiala app for navigation and cultural exploration.