The Hassan II Mosque is not just the most famous mosque in Morocco — it is one of the most extraordinary religious structures ever built. Rising dramatically above the Atlantic Ocean in Casablanca, this architectural masterpiece represents Morocco’s spiritual identity, engineering ambition, and artistic excellence.
Whether you’re searching for Hassan II Mosque tickets, opening hours, prayer times, or wondering if it’s near Marrakech, this guide covers everything — including insider details most blogs don’t mention.
Where Is Hassan II Mosque Located? (Map & Setting)
The Hassan II Mosque is located in Casablanca, Morocco’s largest city, directly on the Atlantic coastline. Unlike most mosques built inland, part of this mosque extends over the ocean, symbolizing the Quranic verse:
“God’s throne was upon the water.”
Hassan II Mosque Map – Key Location Facts
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City: Casablanca
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Coastline: Atlantic Ocean
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Distance from Marrakech: ~240 km (not in Marrakech)
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Neighborhood: Near Ain Diab & Old Medina
⚠️ Important clarification:
Despite frequent searches for “Hassan II Mosque Marrakech”, the mosque is not in Marrakech. Many travelers confuse it with Marrakech landmarks like Koutoubia Mosque.
Why Hassan II Mosque Is So Unique
The Hassan II Mosque stands apart from all other mosques in Morocco — and even the world.
Record-Breaking Features
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Tallest minaret in the world: 210 meters (689 ft)
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Capacity:
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25,000 worshippers inside
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80,000 in the courtyard
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Built partly over the ocean
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One of the few mosques open to non-Muslims
History of Hassan II Mosque
The mosque was commissioned by King Hassan II in 1986 and completed in 1993.
Key Historical Facts
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Built to celebrate the king’s 60th birthday
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Constructed by over 10,000 artisans
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Funded partly by public donations
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Took 7 years to complete
Unlike many historical mosques, this one is modern, yet deeply rooted in traditional Moroccan craftsmanship.
Moroccan Craftsmanship & Architecture (What No One Talks About)
Most articles say “beautiful tiles” — but here’s what makes it exceptional:
Materials & Techniques
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Zellige tiles: Hand-cut, not machine-made
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Cedar wood from the Middle Atlas Mountains
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Tadelakt plaster polished with olive soap
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Titanium doors resistant to ocean air corrosion
💡 Little-known fact:
The mosque has a retractable roof, which opens during special occasions — a rare feature in Islamic architecture in Morocco.
Hassan II Mosque Tickets & Prices (Updated Info)
One of the most searched topics is Hassan II Mosque ticket price, and for good reason — entry rules are unique.
Hassan II Mosque Ticket Price
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Adults: 130 MAD
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Children (under 12): Free
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Moroccan citizens (prayer only): Free
Tickets include a guided tour, which is mandatory for non-Muslims.
Hassan II Mosque Tickets Online?
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❌ Official online ticketing is not consistently available
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✅ Tickets are usually bought on-site
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🕒 Tours run at scheduled times only
💡 Tip: Arrive 30–45 minutes early during high season.
Hassan II Mosque Opening Hours
Visiting Hours (Non-Prayer)
Guided tours usually run:
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Morning: 9:00 – 11:00
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Afternoon: 14:00 – 16:00
⛔ Tours pause during:
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Friday prayers
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Major Islamic holidays
Hassan II Mosque Prayer Times
Prayer times change daily based on the sun:
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Fajr (dawn)
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Dhuhr
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Asr
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Maghrib
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Isha
⚠️ During prayer times, tourists cannot enter the prayer hall.
What to Wear When Visiting Hassan II Mosque
Dress code is strictly enforced.
For Women
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Long pants or skirts
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Covered shoulders
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Headscarf required (can be rented)
For Men
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Long trousers
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Sleeved shirts
💡 Shoes must be removed before entering the prayer hall.
Visiting Hassan II Mosque from Marrakech
Since many travelers stay in Marrakech, here’s how to visit:
Marrakech to Hassan II Mosque Options
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Train: ~2h45 via ONCF
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Private transfer: ~3 hours
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Day trip with Casablanca tour
🚫 There is no Hassan II Mosque in Marrakech, despite frequent search queries.
Best Time to Visit Hassan II Mosque
Ideal Visiting Times
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Early morning for light & photos
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Late afternoon for ocean views
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Sunset for exterior photography
Best Seasons
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Spring (March–May)
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Autumn (September–November)
Avoid:
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Midday in summer (heat + crowds)
Photography Tips (Often Missed)
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Exterior shots at low tide reveal ocean foundations
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Minaret lights up green laser at night pointing to Mecca
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Courtyard tiles reflect sunset beautifully
📸 Photography is allowed inside — without flash.
Hassan II Mosque vs Other Moroccan Mosques
| Mosque | City | Non-Muslim Entry |
|---|---|---|
| Hassan II Mosque | Casablanca | ✅ Yes |
| Koutoubia Mosque | Marrakech | ❌ No |
| Al Qarawiyyin | Fez | ❌ No |
This makes Hassan II Mosque unique in Morocco.
Practical Tips Most Guides Don’t Mention
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Wind can be strong — bring a jacket
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Ocean spray can make floors slippery
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Avoid Fridays unless you’re attending prayer
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Guided tour language depends on group size
Conclusion: Hassan II Mosque, Morocco’s Spiritual & Architectural Icon
The Hassan II Mosque is far more than a tourist attraction — it is a symbol of modern Morocco, where tradition, faith, engineering, and art meet the Atlantic Ocean.
Whether you’re researching Hassan II Mosque tickets, checking opening hours, or planning a trip from Marrakech, this landmark deserves time, respect, and understanding. No other place in Morocco offers such an immersive glimpse into Islamic architecture while remaining open to the world.
If you visit only one mosque in Morocco, make it this one.