Zahir Mosque

Zahir Mosque (Masjid Zahir) is the state mosque of Kedah located in central Alor Setar, Kota Setar District. Built in 1912 and officially opened in 1915, it is one of Malaysia's oldest and most notable mosques. Designed in Moorish architecture inspired by the Azizi Mosque in Langkat, it features five black domes symbolizing the Five Pillars of Islam and serves as an iconic landmark of Alor Setar.

Visitors can expect a grand Moorish-style mosque with five distinctive black domes, elegant arches, minarets and a spacious courtyard in the heart of Alor Setar. The exterior is highly photogenic with manicured grounds opposite the Balai Besar and Balai Nobat. Inside, the main prayer hall features ornate columns and Islamic detailing. Non-Muslim visitors can view the exterior and courtyard outside prayer times and appreciate the architecture and historic setting.

Commissioned by Sultan Tajuddin Mukarram Shah and built in 1912 on the site of the cemetery of Kedah warriors who fell defending Kedah from Siam in 1821. Its design was inspired by the Azizi Mosque in Langkat, North Sumatra. Officially opened on 15 October 1915 by Sultan Abdul Hamid Halim Shah, it has served as the state mosque of Kedah for over a century.

The state mosque and most revered Islamic landmark in Kedah, serving as the centre for major religious gatherings and the annual Kedah state-level Quran recital competition. Its five domes and Moorish design have made it an enduring symbol of Alor Setar and Kedah's Islamic heritage.