The holy month of Ramadan is one of the most meaningful and spiritual periods for Muslims all around the world, reflecting the values of tolerance, patience, sacrifice, and compassion. UAE, owing to its rich cultural heritage and history, is for that reason one of the best nations to offer an unforgettable experience during Ramadan. As believers all around flood to mosques to immerse themselves in relentless piety, the significance of a mosque intensifies as it becomes a cherished tradition to visit this splendid embodiment of spirituality.
Visitors looking to get in touch with their faith and culture are sure to find a spiritual haven in these mosques’ out-of-the-world architecture, majestic designs, and serene atmosphere. So, if you are on the verge of planning a visit to the emirates to soak in the tranquil experience, there are some holy sanctuaries that you shouldn’t miss. Because, each masjid that you are going to get familiarized with soon possesses a unique history and importance, assured to etch a lasting impression in your hearts.
So, sit back, feel free, and be prepared to discover 7 such grand edifices of prayers for you to visit this Ramadan.
List Of Best Mosques In UAE To Visit In Ramadan
Here is the list of the top mosques in the UAE to visit in this holy Ramadan 2023
- Bur Dubai Grand Mosque, Dubai
- Jumeirah Mosque, Dubai
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi
- Iranian Mosque, Bur Dubai
- Al Salam Mosque, Dubai
- Al Farooq Omar Bin Al Khattab Mosque
- Al-Noor Mosque Sharjah
1. Bur Dubai Grand Mosque, Dubai
Positioned in the dynamic district of Bur Dubai, this grand mosque is an architectural testimonial of a breathtaking design reflecting Islamic cultural heritage at its best.
While the mosque’s interior houses a sizable prayer hall with a lovely carpeted floor and pendant lights hanging from the ceiling, the exterior of the mosque is festooned with ornate carvings.
Paramount to the local community in every sense, Bur Dubai Grand Mosque stands tall as the pioneering center of religious and cultural activities that attract visitors from even far nations. In addition to the mosque’s serene environment, it is home to an extensive collection of historical artifacts, manuscripts, and objects related to Islam.
When it’s Ramadan, believers are presented with the opportunity to partake in day-to-day rituals like having iftar meals, attending holy sermons, and Taraweeh prayers. Joining the Laylat al-Qadr (Night of Power) prayer thought to be one of the most sacred nights of the year, is another way for visitors to feel the genuine spirit of Ramadan.
Address: Opposite Dubai Museum, Ali Bin Abi Taleb St – Al Fahidi – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
2. Jumeirah Mosque, Dubai
Iconic and grandiose in and out, Jumeirah Mosque is one of the most loved architectural treasures in Dubai which stands famous for its striking pearl-white exterior and intricate embellishments, which have earned it a special place in the list of architectural marvels.
The intricate carvings and stunning geometric patterns on the walls and ceilings of the mosque reflect the beauty of Islamic art and culture, materialized by some of the most talented craftsmen from the Middle East and beyond.
Its tall minarets and exquisite domes are also one of a kind, offering a sense of astonishment and awe to the visitors that are never destined to get away. Along with being places of worship, it also serves as an all-inclusive platform for interreligious dialogue and cross-cultural interaction, as everyone is welcome to learn and broaden their horizons.
Iftar meals, spiritual lectures and Quranic recitations for the visitors to connect with their faith is also a usual scenario in the Jumeirah mosque just like any other.
Address: Jumeirah 1 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
3. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi
A must-see attraction for visitors to the UAE, the grand mosque is named after Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the UAE’s founding father. Famed as one of the biggest mosques in the world, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque combines both modern and traditional Islamic elements in its majestic architecture, vast gardens, and distinctive features.
The four towering minarets that stand 107 meters tall and 82 domes of various sizes and shapes are just a few of its attractions, offering a grand feast for the eyes. As one takes a tour of the splendid house of prayer, he/she will be able to witness the mosaics, calligraphy, and intricate ornamentation carved to the walls of the mosque.
Owing to its rich tradition and history, the mosque authorities ensure iftar meals are of exceptional quality, finding it hard to leave our taste buds. As it is also home to some of the best imams in the emirates, visitors come in huge flocks to listen to their special lectures without fail. To get the most out of the trip, tourists can also take advantage of guided tours of the mosque and its gardens along the way.
Situated in Abu Dhabi, the UAE’s capital city, it welcomes people of all faiths and backgrounds to come and experience its beauty and spirituality every day of the week, except for Friday mornings.
Location: Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed StreetØŒ – 5th St – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
4. Iranian Mosque, Bur Dubai
Constructed in the early 20th century, this unique mosque of Persian design features stunning stained-glass windows and chandeliers inside, as well as a frontage covered in multicolored tiles and elaborate geometric patterns—a design that stands aside from the rest. The Iranian Mosque, in contrast to those previously mentioned, stands apart due to another fact, which is its historical and cultural ties with Iran.
It is a Shia mosque Hosainia that is situated close to the former Textile Souk in Dubai’s Bur Dubai neighborhood which represents the Iranian community in the emirate who are overwhelmingly Shiites. The mosque is open throughout the day and offers special amenities for the believers during the holy month.
Location: Bur Dubai, Dubai
5. Al Salam Mosque, Dubai
If there is a mosque that effortlessly combines traditional Islamic architecture with contemporary style, it’s the Al Salam Mosque. Situated in the heart of Dubai’s Al Barsha district, it displays a striking style that stands apart from afar due to its sublime pink painting and gilded highlights. A closer inspection reveals the exquisite Emirati architecture, which draws inspiration from Ottoman and Andalusian styles.
The mosque also functions as a symbol of harmony and acceptance, as it is open to people from all backgrounds who wish to learn about Islamic culture and customs.
Large crowds of worshippers can be accommodated in the mosque’s roomy prayer hall during Ramadan, and the atmosphere is especially special during the final ten days of the month, which are regarded as the most blessed and are characterized by a greater emphasis on worship and spiritual reflection.
Address: Al Barsha 2 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
6. Al Farooq Omar Bin Al Khattab Mosque
With its stunning Islamic architectural style, influenced by the Blue Mosque in Istanbul, the mosque is a piece of art that leaves a lasting impression on the minds of its visitors, both locals and foreigners. Its external elegance and breathtaking interior beauty combine Turkish, Moroccan, and Andalusian arts. Brightly colored engravings and the exquisite Arabic calligraphy utilized in the inscriptions of Qur’anic passages give its walls their magnificent appearance.
The mosque’s name, as some can assume, is derived from Omar bin Al Khattab, one of the most important figures in Islamic history. Al Farooq Omar Bin Al Khattab Mosque & Center has a sizable prayer hall, stunning interiors adorned with exquisite tiles and antique furnishings, and a lovely courtyard with a reflecting pool that is flanked by palm trees and lush vegetation.
The mosque also serves as a major cultural hub for a variety of neighborhood events, including talks, seminars, and Islamic classes, with increased activities in Ramadan apart from the iftar and Taraweeh prayers.
Address: Al Safa 1 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
7. Al-Noor Mosque Sharjah
Sitting tight at the Khaled Lagoon at the Buhaira Corniche, the Al-Noor Mosque was inspired by the Sultan Ahmed Mosque in Turkey – featuring an Ottoman Turkish design. One of the mosque’s most striking features is how effectively geometric patterns are used in both the interior and exterior design, providing onlookers with a breathtaking view.
Designed and built in 2005 by a team of architects from the UAE, Egypt, and Morocco, Al Noor Mosque has since undergone renovations of various sorts, and has come to represent the expansion and growth of Sharjah. With its two towering Ottoman-style minarets and cascading domes, it is a well-known landmark along the Sharjah Corniche, parallelly known for being the first mosque in the emirate to open its doors to non-Muslim visitors.
A tour of the mosque is strongly advised whether you are visiting the mosque alone, with friends, or with family. While you are at it, guides engage in discussion around the Islamic culture, Emirati history and heritage, and the stunning architecture of the mosque. Both adults and kids have the chance to ask questions at the end of the tour and don’t forget to bring your camera as you can also take pictures inside Al Noor Mosque.
Location: Corniche St – Al Majaz – Al Majaz 1 – Sharjah – United Arab Emirates
Things to be considered while visiting Mosques in the UAE during Ramadan
Before you plan your visit to Dubai during Ramadan, just be mindful of these small and easy-to-understand instructions for you to have a smooth experience during the tour.
- Don’t eat or drink in the public: It is deemed disrespectful to feast in public, and that includes mosques.
- Dress modestly: Try to wear decent clothes that cover stretches from shoulder to legs.
- Mosque etiquettes: Be super quiet and don’t forget to keep your footwear outside, as Ramadan is one of the quietest months for the believers.
- Visit at the right time: Visit the mosques when there are no prayers. Similarly, avoid the sunrise and sunset period (except if you wish to attend iftar) as it is when the fasting begins and ends.
- Learn a bit about Ramadan: It is beneficial to learn about Ramadan since it demonstrates respect and admiration for the culture and practices of the community and country you are visiting.
In summary, a visit to the UAE during Ramadan belongs to a ‘once in a lifetime’ category, as it hosts some of the world’s most beautiful mosques offering a visual spectacle for a lifetime.
Whether you want to immerse yourself in the spirituality of Ramadan, learn more about Islamic traditions, or take a tour around these majestic houses of prayers breathing in their luxurious charisma, these out-of-the-world masjids are going to impress you for sure. Adding delight to the package is the warm and welcoming embrace of the Emirati community.
In short, Ramadan is a special time to visit these mosques and connect with the Emirati community in the UAE, irrespective of your beliefs or cultural background. So why wait, isn’t it?
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s a special form of prayer offered in the month of Ramadan at night, which are often longer than the regular prayers.
Yes, some of these mosques provide guided tours to guests interested in learning more about their history, architecture, and religious practices.
Mosques play a significant role during Ramadan since they serve as a gathering place for Muslims to pray, break their fasts, and engage in spiritual activities.
es, indeed. Most of these mosques serve iftar meals to visitors who are breaking their fasts and participating in spiritual activities.
The holy month of Ramadan lasts around 29 or 30 days maximum.