Nur Mosque, Addis Ababa

Nur Mosque, also known as Benin Mosque or Nur Masjid, is one of the oldest Islamic sites in the area. It has served Muslim communities since the early years of the city’s growth and is often mentioned as older than the Grand Anwar Mosque. Today, it remains a busy place of worship, especially during Friday prayers and major Islamic holidays, when large numbers of worshippers gather.

The mosque has been rebuilt and renovated in recent years. The newer design adds domes, towers, and strong pillars, giving it a clearer visual presence. Inside, the prayer hall is open and spacious, with prayer carpets arranged in straight rows facing the qibla wall toward Mecca. High windows bring in light and air during services.

Nur Mosque is busiest during Ramadan, when evening prayers and shared meals take place after sunset. At other times, people visit throughout the day for short prayers. Visitors are usually welcome outside prayer hours if they dress modestly and remove their shoes before entering. A visit of about 20 to 30 minutes is enough to understand the mosque’s religious role and daily use.