Did you know that approximately 75% of the UAE population is Muslim? It should come as no surprise that the UAE is home to some of the most beautiful mosques in the world, some of which welcome modestly dressed non-Muslims for tours in between prayers.
Here are five of the most beautiful mosques in the UAE to visit:
Jumeirah Mosque
Jumeirah Mosque, located near Dubai's glittering coastline, has become a city landmark. This elegant structure, built in 1976, features regal white minarets and an intricate dome reminiscent of Fatimid architectural traditions from Syria and Egypt. The interiors are light and airy, with pastel designs, Islamic calligraphy, and gold chandeliers. Looks familiar? Yeah, that's because the Jumeirah Mosque is printed on the AED500 bank note. This mosque is also open to the public, with the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding providing daily guided tours worthy of any vacation itinerary.
Al Farooq Omar bin Khattab Mosque
The Al Farooq Omar bin Khattab Mosque is one of the largest in the United Arab Emirates. It is fondly referred to as Dubai's 'Blue Mosque,' inspired by Turkey's famous Sultan Ahmed Mosque and combining the best of Ottoman and Andalusian styles. It has four majestic minarets, 21 domes, 124 stained-glass windows, and a traditional fountain. Thousands of Turkish Iznik tiles adorn the walls and arches inside, complemented by rich red and gold carpets on the floor. Because of its location opposite the rolling greens of Al Safa Park, the mosque has excellent views from the outside as well.
Masjid Al Rahim
Masjid Al Rahim is a majestic sight to behold, set against the towering Dubai Marina skyline. This divine structure, located at the southern end of Dubai Marina Walk, is crowned by a single dome, with a waterfall bordering the facade facing the marina's waters. It is only open to worshippers and includes a library and school where students can study the Quran, adding a local touch to the neighborhood's modern setting. It's easily accessible and only a few minutes walk from the Dubai Marina Mall metro station.
The Great Mosque of Dubai
This Mosque, also known as the Grand Bur Dubai Masjid, epitomizes an ideal worship place. With a seating capacity of 1200 people, it is home to Dubai's tallest minaret, which stands 70 meters (230 feet) tall and resembles a lighthouse. The structure has a long history and was once a Koran study school or Kuttab.
Khalifa Al Tajer Mosque
Khalifa Al Tajer, also known as the 'Green Mosque' of Dubai, is the region's first eco-friendly mosque. Islam has a long history of emphasizing the importance of conserving natural resources, and this environmentally friendly mosque is no exception. The mosque, which is located to the east of the iconic Dubai Creek, was built with green materials and includes solar panels for power as well as a climate-controlled system that regulates air-conditioning based on prayer times and the number of visitors. The mosque is also close to Deira's famous Gold Souk, so there's plenty to see and do nearby.
