Discover Jumeirah Mosque in Dubai

With the melodic call to prayer echoing through Dubai five times daily and thousands of mosque minarets piercing the skyline, Islam’s influence is evident across the city. To deepen your understanding of the world’s second-largest religion, consider visiting Jumeirah Mosque, the only mosque in Dubai that welcomes non-Muslims and offers unique insights into Islamic culture.

Guided Tours

The most effective way to familiarize yourself with Jumeirah Mosque and gain insight into the Islamic faith is by joining a guided tour. Operated by the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, these tours run at 10 a.m., Saturday to Thursday. There is no need to arrange the tour in advance; however, it is advisable to arrive early for registration, which begins at 9:30 a.m. This relaxed tour offers an excellent introduction to the Five Pillars of Islam. Consistent with the SMCCU’s ethos of “Open minds, open doors,” guests are encouraged to ask any questions they may have about the region and religion, with no topic off limits.

The 75-minute tour costs 25 dirhams (about $7) and concludes with refreshments, including water, dates, Arabic coffee, tea, and Emirati pastries. Additionally, private visits to the mosque can be arranged through the SMCCU. If you are traveling with ten or more people, contact the center to arrange a private group tour.

The Building

Jumeirah Mosque is located on Jumeirah Beach Road in the stylish neighborhood of Jumeirah 1. Built in 1976, this stunning mosque is constructed of intricately carved white stone, reflecting the medieval Fatimid style of North Africa and the Middle East, complete with fortress-like crenellations and beautifully carved archways. The first striking features you’ll notice are the pair of minarets that soar above the building. It is from the balcony of these towers that the muezzin makes his call to prayer throughout the day.

The mosque’s large central dome is surrounded by four smaller domes, each adorned with exquisite stone carvings. Inside, the tranquil space is decorated in soothing tones of apricot, cream, and duck-egg blue, with elegant brass lanterns illuminating the central prayer hall and surrounding nooks.

During your tour of Jumeirah Mosque, you’ll learn about the significance of the Qiblah, a semicircular niche in the wall indicating the direction of the Kaaba, or The Cube, in Mecca. It is here that the Imam stands to lead prayers five times daily, accommodating up to 1,200 worshippers.

Dress Code

As Jumeirah Mosque is a place of worship, specific dress rules apply. Both women and men are required to cover their shoulders and knees at all times, and clothing should be loose-fitting and non-transparent. Women are also required to cover their heads with a scarf; however, if you do not have suitable clothing, traditional attire can be borrowed from the mosque.

Photo Opportunities

The SMCCU’s “Open mind, open door” policy extends to photography, and cameras are allowed inside the mosque, making Jumeirah Mosque the most photographed mosque in Dubai. While the cool white walls contrast beautifully with a clear blue sky during the daytime, try to arrive at dusk for the most stunning exterior shots. As the sun sets, the white stone transforms into a deep blush before transitioning to a soft golden hue. After nightfall, the mosque is illuminated from below, highlighting the exquisite stone carvings and intricate details.

What’s Nearby

After your morning tour of Jumeirah Mosque, take a short five-minute stroll to Jumeirah Public Beach, where you can take a refreshing dip in the Arabian Gulf and photograph the iconic Burj Al Arab, known as Dubai’s most luxurious hotel and architectural marvel.

Consider a 10-minute walk to the north to visit the Etihad Museum, where the United Arab Emirates was founded. It was in the Union House in 1971 that the documents unifying the Arab states were signed.

For a quick refuel and shopping for designer homewares, clothing, and jewelry, head south to Comptoir 102, a trendy concept store and café specializing in crafted goods and wholesome organic food, just a 15-minute walk (or 5-minute taxi ride) from Jumeirah Mosque.

Consider enjoying a cultural breakfast or lunch at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, followed by a visit to the Dubai Museum, both located within the historic Al Fahidi Neighborhood, just a 15-minute drive north of Jumeirah Mosque.