Jumeirah Mosque: A Must-Visit Attraction in Dubai
Dubai is a city that offers a variety of attractions for tourists, from skyscrapers to shopping malls, from beaches to deserts. But one of the most unique and memorable experiences you can have in Dubai is visiting the Jumeirah Mosque, the most beautiful and photogenic mosque in the city.
The Jumeirah Mosque is not only a place of worship for Muslims but also a cultural and educational center that welcomes people of all faiths and backgrounds. It is one of the few mosques in Dubai that is open to non-Muslims, and it offers guided tours that explain Islamic traditions and beliefs.
In this blog post, we will tell you everything you need to know about the Jumeirah Mosque, including its history, architecture, location, timings, tickets, dress code, and more. So read till end!
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History of Jumeirah Mosque
The Jumeirah Mosque was built in 1976 by Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the father of the current ruler of Dubai. It was designed by a British architect named John Harris, who was inspired by the Fatimid style of architecture that originated in Egypt.
The mosque was named after the Jumeirah district, where it is located along the Jumeirah Beach Road. The word "Jumeirah" means "beautiful" in Arabic, and it reflects the stunning beauty of the mosque and its surroundings.
The Jumeirah Mosque is considered to be one of the most iconic landmarks in Dubai, and it has been featured on many postcards and souvenirs. It is also the most photographed mosque in Dubai, especially at night when it is illuminated by spotlights.
Architecture of Jumeirah Mosque
The Jumeirah Mosque is made of pure white marble, which gives it a striking contrast with the blue sky and the green palm trees. It has two towering minarets that flank a large central dome, which is surrounded by smaller domes and arches. The mosque can accommodate up to 1,200 worshippers at a time.
The interior of the mosque is equally impressive, with intricate carvings, paintings, and stained glass windows that adorn the walls and ceilings. The main prayer hall has a large chandelier that hangs from the dome, and a mihrab that indicates the direction of Mecca. The mosque also has a library, a lecture hall, and a courtyard with a fountain.
One of the most remarkable features of the Jumeirah Mosque is that it is built entirely by hand, without using any machines or tools. The craftsmen used traditional techniques and materials to create this masterpiece of Islamic art and architecture.
How to Visit Jumeirah Mosque
If you want to visit the Jumeirah Mosque, you need to join one of the guided tours that are organized by the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU). The SMCCU is a non-profit organization that aims to promote cross-cultural dialogue and understanding between different communities in Dubai.
The guided tours are available twice a day from Saturday to Thursday (except Fridays), at 8:00 am and 2:00 pm. The tours last for about 30 to 45 minutes, and they include refreshments, an Emirati buffet, a Q&A session, a complete visit of the mosque, a chance to learn about Muslim prayers, an opportunity to learn about the culture and faith, and henna for ladies.
You do not need to book your spot in advance for the tours, but you need to register at least 30 minutes before the tour starts at the SMCCU office near the mosque entrance. The tours cost 6 to 9 dollars per person (depending on the exchange rate), and they are open to everyone above six years old.
During Ramadan, which is the holy month of fasting for Muslims, there is only one special tour per day at 2:00 pm. You need to book your spot for this tour online through [the SMCCU website]. You also need to respect the fasting rules by not eating or drinking anything during your visit.
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Dress Code for Jumeirah Mosque
As the Jumeirah Mosque is a sacred place for Muslims, you need to follow a modest dress code when you visit it. You should not wear any clothes that reveal your skin or body shape.
Women are required to wear full-length and fully-covered clothes with head scarves. You can also wear loose-fitting abayas or dresses that are provided by the SMCCU for free. Men are required to wear loose pants and full-sleeve shirts. You also need to take off your shoes before entering the mosque.
If you are not sure about what to wear or how to wear it, you can ask your tour guide or the SMCCU staff for assistance. They will be happy to help you and make you feel comfortable.
Location of Jumeirah Mosque
The Jumeirah Mosque is located in Jumeirah 1, along the Jumeirah Beach Road, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. You can easily reach the mosque by public transport or private cab. The nearest metro station is Al Jafiliya, which is about 4 km away from the mosque. You can also take bus number 8, 81, or 88 and get off at the Jumeirah Mosque stop.
If you prefer to travel by car, you can find parking spaces near the mosque or at the nearby Mercato Mall. You can also request a private pickup and drop-off service from your tour agency or hotel.
Final Thoughts
The Jumeirah Mosque is a must-visit attraction in Dubai for anyone who wants to experience the beauty and diversity of Islamic culture and architecture. It is a place where you can learn, explore, and appreciate the rich heritage and values of the Muslim community in Dubai.
The Jumeirah Mosque is more than just a tourist attraction, it is a place of worship and peace for Muslims and non-Muslims alike. Therefore, you should respect the rules and etiquette of the mosque and behave in a courteous and polite manner.
Don't forget to bring your camera with you to capture the stunning views of the mosque and its surroundings. You will surely have a memorable and unforgettable visit to the Jumeirah Mosque.
