After the founding of the People's Republic of China on 1 October 1949, Shanghai Mayor Chen Yi inspected the mosque and approved appropriate funds for its maintenance.

The mosque was built in the traditional West Asian Islamic style combined with Chinese architecture.

In 1920–1940, the mosque received and served Muslim people from regions around China who planned to go for Hajj to Saudi Arabia.

Many high ranking government officials and prestigious people from Islamic countries also have visited the mosque and taken part in prayers.

The mosque is accessible within walking distance east of Laoximen Station of Shanghai Metro.