The Nur-Astana Mosque in Astana (formerly Nur-Sultan) owes its existence to the vision of Lebanese architect Charles Hazif and the generous financial support of the Qatari government. Officially opened on March 22, 2005, during the celebration of the spring festival of Navruz, the mosque held the title of the largest in Kazakhstan until 2012 when it was surpassed by the Hazret Sultan Mosque. Despite this, Nur-Astana remains one of the architectural gems of the capital.
Construction of the mosque took place between 2002 and 2005, with nearly 7 million dollars invested in the project. It is notable that the Kazakh state did not participate in the funding, as the country’s constitution declares Kazakhstan a secular state, prohibiting government involvement in the financing of religious institutions.
The mosque covers an area of nearly 4,000 square meters. Its main prayer hall can accommodate 5,000 worshippers, with an additional 2,000 places on a balcony designated for women, situated above the central hall. The mosque’s gleaming white exterior, adorned with golden domes and constructed from glass, concrete, granite, and composite panels, stands out from a distance. It enlivens the surrounding modern structures, sparkling like a precious jewel against the dominant gray cityscape, adding a touch of eastern charm to the high-tech architecture of the “City of the Future,” as Astana is often called.
Located in the new business center on the left bank of the Ishim River, between the Bayterek Monument and the Khan Shatyr shopping complex, the mosque serves not only as a key religious center but also as a popular spot for relaxation and a tourist attraction in the capital. The surrounding park is a favorite with locals who enjoy picnicking or resting on the grass. In spring, when the apple trees bloom, the park becomes particularly beautiful. The square in front of the mosque features a fountain with a rotating sphere. Nearby, there are swings for children and camel sculptures perfect for photo opportunities. A yurt on the premises offers fresh kumis for sale, and behind the mosque, a madrasa sells delicious flatbreads baked in a tandoor oven.
The architecture of the Nur-Astana Mosque follows traditional Eastern design, resembling an illustration from an oriental fairy tale. Atop the low-slung structure sits a massive 43-meter golden dome, surrounded by smaller gilded domes. Four slender minarets, each 63 meters tall, rise from the four corners of the building.
The mosque’s architecture is simple yet majestic, without excessive decoration or pomp. The dominant color is a pure, snow-white. The building’s form is characterized by clean lines, and its rhythm is defined by the alternating domes and windows of uniform shape. From the right angle, these elements align into geometrically precise rows. The archways of the walls surrounding the inner courtyard, which is attached to the mosque on the entrance side, also participate in this visual harmony, a thoughtful touch by the Lebanese architect.
The mosque’s entrance is through three arches in the inner courtyard. The side arches face each other, while the largest central arch is adorned with a metallic rosette.
The design of the Nur-Astana Mosque was created with the specific context of Astana’s left bank in mind. The large buildings of the new business center reflect the city’s status as a young capital of a flourishing state.
The same principles that define the mosque’s exterior—elegance and restraint—are evident in its interior. The decor does not overwhelm visitors but instead fosters a calm and serene atmosphere. The mosque is bathed in light, both from the arched windows and the choice of colors—turquoise and sandy tones, with subtle touches of gold. Although the mosque was once the largest in Kazakhstan, its interior is devoid of lavishness. The primary goal is not to impress with wealth, but to inspire spiritual reflection.
The interior layout mirrors the building’s overall structure, with the same orderly rows of arches. The main space is the prayer hall beneath the central dome, supported by eight pillars. These pillars are inscribed with surahs—passages from the Quran. The walls are adorned with Kazakh national ornaments, a departure from the traditional geometric and floral patterns typically used in Islamic mosque decoration.
One of the mosque’s most treasured relics is a fragment of the Kiswa, a black silk cloth embroidered with gold that covers the Kaaba in Mecca. During the annual sacrifice festival, it is customary to cut the Kiswa into small pieces and present them to honored guests. One of these fragments was gifted to Kazakhstan’s first president, Nursultan Nazarbayev, who in turn donated it to the mosque. Nazarbayev was the first leader from the CIS and Central Asia to receive this highly significant Muslim relic.
Another revered artifact housed in the Nur-Astana Mosque is a Quran printed by the Sheikh’s press in Saudi Arabia.
The Nur-Astana Mosque welcomes visitors of all backgrounds, and entrance is free. Even if you do not follow Islam or have no religious affiliation, you are welcome to explore the mosque. Staff at the entrance can explain the mosque’s customs, and there is also a set of visitor guidelines posted on the wall.
According to Islamic tradition, visitors must remove their shoes before entering the mosque. In addition, practicing Muslims perform ablutions before prayer, and there are separate facilities for men and women to do so.
Both men and women are required to wear modest clothing that covers the appropriate parts of the body. For men, this means covering the area from the navel to the knees, while women must leave only their faces, hands, and feet exposed. If you happen to visit the mosque during a city tour and are not dressed accordingly, special cloaks are provided for visitors.
Women are allowed to enter the mosque, except on certain days for physiological reasons, but they cannot enter the main prayer hall. The second-floor balcony is designated for female worshippers.
Inside the mosque and its grounds, visitors are expected to maintain respectful behavior—no loud conversations, smoking, or littering.
The mosque is open 24/7, though the busiest time is during Friday prayers. At night, when the mosque is illuminated, it resembles a glowing star against the dark sky.
The Nur-Astana Mosque is located near the Nurzhol Boulevard, and its towering minarets and imposing dome are visible from afar, making it easy to locate in the city. Notable nearby landmarks, such as the Khan Shatyr and Bayterek, are just a 15-minute walk away.
Admire Independence Square fountains
Explore Khazret Sultan Mosque
Visit Palace of Peace
Cross the Ishim River
View Astana’s unique architecture
Enjoy a scenic boat ride