20-07-2025
Al Alya Mosque: A testament to Oman's Islamic heritage
Rustaq – The Al Alya Mosque in Rustaq, South Batinah stands as one of Oman's most significant religious and historical landmarks. Built in the 17th century during the reign of Imam Nasser bin Murshid al Yarubi, the mosque reflects the depth of Islamic culture rooted in the region for centuries.
Located in the heart of Al Alya village, 800m from Rustaq Fort, the mosque serves both spiritual and social roles for local residents. Constructed on elevated ground, roughly 6m above the level of the village falaj, it is surrounded by orchards – some of which are waqf endowments, including Al Furod to the south and Al Jahal to the east – highlighting the mosque's importance in community life.
Ahmed bin Saif bin Khamis al Mazrouei, Administrator of the mosque's endowment, said the site's assets include 47 water shares in Al Maysar Falaj, valued at around RO94,000, besides orchards containing more than 550 date palms.
The mosque also played a civic role. Until recently, it hosted weddings and funeral gatherings, which were later shifted to Sablat al Alya. It was a meeting place for local leaders to discuss village affairs, and served as a venue for reconciliation and adjudication sessions, often attended by imams and governors. Drinking water was made available to worshippers and visitors in earthenware vessels – jahal – filled from the falaj and suspended at designated spots.
Mazrouei noted the mosque's wider role as an academic centre. Renowned scholars and sheikhs once studied there, including Sheikh Suleiman bin Abdullah al Luwaihi, reflecting its historical role in religious education and community leadership. Ahmed bin Saif bin Khamis al Mazrouei
The mosque is built on a rectangular plan, measuring 21m by 12m. The mihrab stands out for its proportions and understated inscriptions. Two metres wide and four metres high, it bears layered carvings of declarations of the Islamic faith. Enlarged in recent renovations, it now has an enhanced visual impact. The mosque originally had three doors – two to the east and one to the north. A fourth door was added on the southern side to facilitate access for Friday sermons and for people with disabilities, while the northern door was sealed.
A traditional staircase, made of al alan wood, has remained intact since the mosque's construction. The mosque complex also includes a 15mX12m building once used as a dormitory for students and as a storage area.
Centuries after it was built, Al Alya Mosque continues to embody the spiritual, academic and civic life of Rustaq, preserving its architectural and cultural relevance in modern Oman.
