Whether you are a traveler exploring East Kalimantan or a cultural enthusiast discovering Islamic architecture, a visit to this grand complex offers an unforgettable experience.
Key Architectural Highlights
The design of Islamic Centre Samarinda blends Middle Eastern grandeur with local Indonesian influences, creating a striking skyline visible from across the Mahakam River.
The Grand Main Dome: Adorned with vibrant geometric patterns inspired by traditional East Kalimantan motifs, the central dome dominates the structure with a diameter of over 45 meters.
The 99-Meter Main Minaret: Symbolizing the Asmaul Husna (the 99 Names of Allah), the main tower offers panoramic views of Samarinda city and the winding river below.
The Seven Secondary Minarets: Representing the seven heavens in Islamic theology, these surrounding towers frame the courtyard, including four 70-meter corner minarets and two gate towers.
Spacious Prayer Hall: The three-story interior can accommodate up to 40,000 to 45,000 worshipers, featuring polished marble floors, grand crystal chandeliers, and intricate calligraphy along the Qibla wall.
Best Things to Do When Visiting
Marvel at the Architecture & River View
Walk through the sprawling outer courtyard paved with granite tiles. The view of the mosque set against the backdrop of the Mahakam River provides exceptional photography opportunities, especially during golden hour.
Ascend the Main Minaret
Take the elevator inside the 99-meter tower to reach the observation deck. From the top, you get a 360-degree aerial view of Samarinda, the Mahakam Bridge, and passing river barges.
Experience the Mosque at Night
After sunset, the entire complex lights up with vibrant LED illumination, creating a glowing reflection on the surface of the river.
Practical Visitor Information
| Parameter | Details |
| Location | Teluk Lerong Ulu, Sungai Kunjang, Samarinda City, East Kalimantan |
| Opening Hours | Open 24/7 for prayers; tourism visitors are best accommodated between 08:00 AM – 08:00 PM |
| Entrance Fee | Free entry (voluntary donations accepted for mosque upkeep) |
| Best Time to Visit | Late afternoon (4:30 PM) to capture both daylight photography and the evening illumination |
Visitor Etiquette & Code of Conduct
Because the Islamic Centre is an active place of worship, visitors should adhere to standard mosque guidelines:
Dress Modestly: Loose-fitting clothing covering arms and legs is required for all visitors. Women should wear a headscarf/hijab upon entering the main prayer areas.
Footwear Policy: Remove shoes or sandals before stepping onto the marble plaza and carpeted prayer halls. Shoe storage racks are provided near the entrance.
Respect Worshipers: Maintain a quiet voice and avoid taking photos directly in front of people actively performing prayers.
Check Prayer Times: If you are visiting purely for sightseeing, try to avoid arriving during peak congregational prayer times (Friday Midday Prayer or Maghrib) to allow smooth traffic flow for worshipers.
How to Get There
From Samarinda City Center: The mosque is roughly 15–20 minutes away by car or motorcycle taxi (Gojek/Grab) via Jalan M. Yamin or Jalan Samarinda-Tengarong.
From Aji Pangeran Tumenggung Pranoto Airport (AAP): Located approximately 45–60 minutes away depending on traffic. Taxis and airport shuttles are readily available.
