Famous Mosques to visit in UAE
The architectural splendour of the Emirates is not just limited to its lofty buildings and opulent hotels; it can be witnessed in the mosques of the country. Most of these mosques are open to people of all faith and race. So, include these mosques in your UAE itinerary to add a dash of diversity to the tour plan.
Sheikh Zayed Mosque, Abu Dhabi
The mosque that upholds the grandeur of Emirati architecture ranks high in the list of famous mosques. The vast interiors of Sheikh Zayed Mosque can accommodate over 40,000 visitors at a time, which incidentally makes it the largest mosque in UAE. The mosque design which draws inspiration from Mughal, Alexandrian, and Persian architecture looks quaint and contemporary at the same time.
A leisurely stroll through the capacious corridors of the mosque will let every visitor escape reality and transcend themselves into a state of bliss. The interiors of the mosque are adorned with intricate wall paintings, exquisite chandeliers, and an extravagant courtyard; the exteriors on the other hand are beautified with a well-manicured garden and a placid pool.
Al Badiyah Mosque, Fujairah
Not all mosques in UAE are extravagant and sleek. Al Badiyah- a compact, 15th-century mosque located in a small Fujairah village is grand in many other levels. The mosque, completely made from mud and stone, has stood the test of time so gracefully and still welcomes pilgrims and holidayers alike.
The mosque has a small prayer hall, a simple pulpit, and arches inside. Small decorative windows of the mosque hall allow air and light to percolate into the prayer hall. The mosque is cherished by the government as a national treasure.
Al Farooq Omar Bin Al Khattab Mosque
Al Farooq Mosque, popularly known by the name of Blue Mosque, derives its design inspiration from Blue Mosque of Istanbul. Unlike other mosques in UAE, the Blue Mosque features a perfect symmetric structure with 2 lofty minarets on both sides. The minarets that look like spires from a distance gives the mosque a Gothic look as well. The mosque also features 16 domes; the central domes and 15 surrounding domes, adding to its grandeur.
Jumeirah Mosque, Dubai
Jumeirah Mosque in Dubai combines picturesque design and prime location. The mosque is one of the most visited and photographed landmarks of UAE. Jumeirah mosque is built in Fatimid style and it features classical Emirati design.
The mosque interiors are airy and charmingly lit by antique chandeliers. The exterior of the mosque is unembellished and simple, yet it stands proudly as an alluring landmark.
Iranian Mosque, Bur Dubai
The Iranian Blue Mosque stands out in the list of mosques in UAE, mainly owing to its colour. While the other mosques feature sober colours, ranging from white to beige, the blue mosque is drenched in eye-soothing Persian Blue. The church design draws inspiration from Iranian architecture and it features numerous facades and onion domes. The walls of the mosque are embellished with azure and Persian blue tiles and also incorporate floral patterns and Islamic calligraphy.
Al Noor Mosque, Sharjah
Al Noor Mosque, located beside the Sharjah Corniche offers breathtaking views and solace to every visitor. The mosque design that mimics the Turkish Ottoman design looks ethereal from every vantage point; the 34 domes of the mosque adds to its magnificence. In the evening, when the streetlights of the Sharjah Corniche are switched on, an enchanting scene comes to life in the spot.
Grand Mosque, Dubai
The Grand Mosque located in Bur Dubai area is regarded as the hub of Dubai’s cultural and religious life. The mosque, which was built in 1900, has undergone many renovations during the course of hundred years, yet it has still withheld its allure. The mosque can hold almost 1200 worshippers at a time. The Grand Mosque chiefly functions as a religious centre than a tourist destination, therefore, non-Muslims are not allowed inside. Tourists can access the minaret of the mosque, which is the tallest minaret in Dubai, from where photography is also allowed. The interiors and exteriors of the mosque are not heavily adorned like other mosques; the entrance facade is inscribed with large Quranic verses.
The peace and positive energy that exist in the mosque premises make it a ‘must-see’ tourist attraction. More than the history or grandeur of the mosque, it is serenity that attracts every visitor to its doors.