Jawatha Mosque
مسجد جواثا
Believed to date from the early Islamic period in the 7th century, this is the earliest known mosque in eastern Arabia, now a restored site.
Jawatha Mosque lies in Jawatha village, about 12 km northeast of Hofuf. It is said to have been built by the Abd al-Qais tribe around the 7th year of the Islamic calendar. It was one of the earliest mosques to hold Friday prayers after the Prophet's Mosque in Medina, and it is the earliest known mosque in eastern Arabia. Most of the original structure has collapsed, but the walls and prayer area were restored to their original form in 2007. The surroundings include the Jawatha archaeological site and date-palm groves. The site is small and pairs well with a tour of Jabal Qara. Dress conservatively when visiting, and women are advised to cover their hair.
Opening hours
Open during the day (avoid prayer times)
Nearby sights
- Jabal Al-Qarah
- Al-Ahsa Oasis Palm Groves
- Ain Umm Sab'a
- Qasr Sahood
- Qasr Ibrahim
- Al-Qaisariya Souq
- Al-Asfar Lake
- Bayt Al-Bay'ah (House of Allegiance)