The United Arab Emirates has some of the most beautiful mosques in the world. These mosques are not only places for Muslims to pray, but they also show the country’s rich culture and Islamic traditions.
For example, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi has shiny white domes and detailed flower designs. The Jumeirah Mosque in Dubai is known for its stunning Ottoman-style architecture. Each mosque in the UAE is special in its way. Join us on a virtual tour to see some of these amazing mosques, where art and faith unite perfectly.
The Grand Mosque of Sheikh Zayed in the UAE is the world’s largest and most stunning mosque. This structure is adorned with 82 domes, supported by over 1,000 pillars, and is encircled by reflecting pools that enhance its magnificence.
The mosque has marble halls, gold-plated chandeliers, mosaic artwork, and columns decorated with amethyst and jasper. The Founding Father of the UAE, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, envisioned this mosque. It welcomes visitors from all over the world and can hold up to 50,000 worshippers every day.
Al Noor Mosque in Sharjah is the only mosque in the area open to non-Muslims. There are free one-hour tours at 10 am every Monday and Thursday. The mosque stands out in Sharjah’s skyline and overlooks Khalid Lagoon.
It has a classic Ottoman design with 34 domes, and inside, you can see detailed calligraphy of verses from the Holy Quran. As a popular tourist spot, the mosque offers visitors free traditional Emirati clothing and Arabic coffee, called gahwa.
The grand Jumeirah Mosque, Dubai, was built in 1979 and combines Islamic and Fatimid architectural styles. It opens its doors to guests of all origins and provides guided visits for non-Muslims to foster comprehension and reverence among diverse religions.
The mosque’s beautiful white exterior shines under the moonlight, creating a stunning view. The detailed calligraphy creates a peaceful atmosphere, making it a great place for spiritual reflection and cultural appreciation. The Jumeirah Mosque represents the UAE’s spirit of openness and inclusivity.
The Al Farooq Omar bin Khattab Mosque is among the biggest in the United Arab Emirates. It’s often called Dubai’s Blue Mosque because Turkey’s famous Sultan Ahmed Mosque inspires it and combines Ottoman and Andalusian styles.
The mosque features four towering minarets, 21 domes, 124 colored-glass windows, and a classic fountain.
Open to all visitors, it features thousands of Turkish Iznik tiles on the walls and arches, with rich red and gold carpets on the floor. The mosque also offers great views outside, as it is located across from the green spaces of Al Safa Park.
Situated on a slope in Fujairah close to the conventional fishing hamlet of Al Badiyah, the oldest mosque in the UAE was established in 1446. It stands just 15 feet tall and covers an area of 570 square feet. Made of stone and burnt mud coated in white plaster, it has a unique, square-shaped design.
The roof features four domes resting on a central pillar. Despite its small size, the prayer hall can hold 70 people for daily prayers. With a history dating back to 2000 BC, the Al Bidya Mosque is one of the UAE’s top attractions.
Named after the former King of Saudi Arabia, the King Faisal Mosque in Al Soor is one of the largest mosques in the area. It can hold more than 16,000 worshippers.
This is the neighborhood mosque on Reem Island. It has a modern design and three levels, including a women’s prayer hall.
With modern Islamic design, the striking Al Sakina Mosque is located in the Al Rahmaniyah 4 neighborhood and can hold 900 devotees.
Al Salam Mosque, located in Dubai’s busy Al Barsha neighborhood, attracts tourists with its beautiful blue and white cupola.
It offers a peaceful space for prayer and meditation, blending modern design with traditional Islamic architecture. The mosque is a hidden gem in the busy town due to its lovely features and calm surroundings.
Originally a Quran school, it was built in 1900 but rebuilt as a mosque in 1960. It’s situated close to the Dubai Museum and the fabric quarters of Bur Dubai. The mosque can accommodate 1,200 worshippers and boasts Dubai’s tallest minaret at 70 meters high.
Many people aren’t aware of this stunning mosque, but you might discover it while exploring near the Textile Souk. Also called the Ali ibn Abi Talib Mosque, it’s decorated with detailed blue tiles.
This mosque is one of two beautifully designed Iranian mosques in Dubai; the other, Imam Hussein Mosque, can be found in Satwa.
This stunning mosque is a landmark in the emirate near Jumeirah Beach. Its exterior is made of pink sandstone and colorful marble. The mosque is open to everyone, offering daily tours organized by the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding.
Built-in the 18th century and found in the Old Ras Al Khaimah district, this mosque has been renovated and expanded several times. This is one of the numerous historical monuments in the emirate, constructed from coral stone and beach rock.
In conclusion, the United Arab Emirates has beautiful mosques highlighting its Islamic heritage and stunning architecture. Each offers a special visit, like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Al Badiyah Mosque. They’re places for worship and show unity and acceptance.
These mosques reflect the United Arab Emirates’ commitment to preserving its culture with intricate or modern designs. Visiting gives a peek into spirituality, art, and the country’s traditions, making them important spots for locals and tourists to explore.
Q1. What are some of the most stunning mosques to visit in the UAE?
Some of the most beautiful mosques to visit in the United Arab Emirates include the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, the Jumeirah Mosque, Dubai, and the Al Noor Mosque in Sharjah.
Q2. How many mosques can be found in the UAE?
The UAE is home to a significant number of mosques, with each emirate boasting several mosques in the world.
Q3. Which is the oldest mosque in the UAE?
The Al Badiyah Mosque is one of the older mosques in UAE, dating back to the 15th century.
Q4. Are there guided tours available for non-Muslims at mosques in the UAE?
Yes, many mosques in Dubai, such as the Sheikh Zayed Mosque and Sheikh Mohammed bin Farooq Omar Bin Al Khattab Mosque and center, offer guidance to provide cultural awareness to non-Muslim visitors.