Visiting MAPS

WHAT IS A MASJID?
A masjid is the Arabic name for a mosque, which is a place of worship.  MAPS is a masjid, and a community center with a restaurant, café, an Islamic school, interfaith programs, a beauty salon, a boutique, a gym, and so much more! 

HOW SHOULD I DRESS WHEN I VISIT MAPS?
There is no specific dress code at MAPS.  However, Muslim men and women dress modestly.  If you wish to show respect and cultural sensitivity, you can also dress modestly (business attire is perfectly fine). You do not have to wear a head covering.  If you want to wear a head covering, you can do so – and we have some for you to borrow at MAPS if you wish to try it. Please know that the carpeted area in the prayer hall requires the removal of shoes – so make sure you have clean socks!

HOW DO MUSLIMS GREET EACH OTHER?
Muslims greet each other with “As-Salaamu-Alaikum” (Arabic for ”peace be with you”) and a smile! Please note that some Muslims do not shake hands or hug those of the opposite sex, so understand it’s not anything about you!  It’s about modesty and respect. The best way to handle this since you may not know who does and who doesn’t shake hands: don’t offer your hand to someone of the opposite gender unless they do so first. Greeting someone with your hand on your heart/chest is always a safe bet.

CAN ANYONE VISIT MAPS?
Yes!  MAPS is open to all regardless of faith (or no faith) background, religion, race, ethnicity, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, class, or age.  

ARE CHILDREN WELCOME TOO?
Yes!  Children and youth are an important part of our community and we welcome and enjoy their presence at MAPS.  Many of our activities are geared toward children and families.  However, please remember that parents are responsible for supervising their own children and youth at all times, unless childcare services are offered.  

CAN I ENTER THE PRAYER AREA TO OBSERVE THE PRAYER?
Yes!  There are daily congregational prayers, and our large Friday service that includes prayer.  If you choose to go inside the prayer hall to observe prayers (which you are allowed and encouraged to do so), please do not step on the carpeted area with your shoes (as people prostrate on the carpet).  Instead, place your shoes on the shoe racks before entering the prayer hall. Please note that men and women pray in separate designated areas.

IS PARKING AVAILABLE AT MAPS?
Yes!  MAPS has a free parking lot surrounding the building, which is adequate for day-to-day events and likely during your visit.  However, for Friday congregational services, Eid gatherings, or other larger events, parking may be a challenge.  During those times, please be sure to give yourself plenty of time to find street parking or overflow parking at Marymoor Park (parking volunteers may help direct traffic during peak hours). Please do NOT park in the parking lots of our neighboring businesses unless otherwise directed by volunteers, and do not block or obstruct other cars.

I’M NERVOUS.  WHAT IF I SAY OR DO SOMETHING WRONG?
While we appreciate your sentiment, please don’t let your fear or concern about making a mistake keep you from visiting or attending an event at MAPS!  We only grow when we step outside our comfort zone. We look forward to welcoming you, and if you do make any mistakes, you can always correct them the next time you visit us!  🙂