If you grew up Muslim, you know the drill: the second the crescent moon is sighted, time ceases to exist. The days are sleepy and everyone seems to run in slow motion, and it’s only after sundown that the world around you comes alive.
Suddenly, the same parents who used to give you a strict 6 pm curfew have absolutely zero objections to you staying out until dawn for Taraweeh and Suhoor runs. It’s the ultimate loophole, and it’s a pity if you’re not planning to take advantage of it. While your neighborhood mosque is probably your A1 since day one, why not shake things up? Put on your best abaya, grab an iced beverage of your choice (or three), and join us for the ultimate Mosque Crawl.
Jumeirah Mosque
This isn’t just a mosque; the Jumeirah mosque was amongst the first grand architecture projects taken on in the Emirates. As a part of it’s “Open Doors, Open Minds” initiative, the mosque opens its doors to people from all faiths and all walks of life for a tour, or even just a small snack. Also, fun fact! Before the Burj Khalifa was added to the Dhs500 note, the spot was occupied by the Jumeirah Mosque.
Blending Fatimid and Mamluk styles, this is architectural fusion at its finest. The detailed stone carvings and a creamy white facade take up a glow during the “blue hour” just before Iftar.
📍Where is it: Located on the Jumeirah Beach Road in Jumeirah 1.
🚗How to get there: It’s easiest to catch a taxi or Careem. If you’re a fan of public transport, take the Metro to the Max Station and hop on a quick bus or a 10-minute cab ride toward the coast.
Bur Dubai Grand Mosque
This mosque has seen the city grow up. It started as a school for the Qur’an (a kuttab) back in 1900. It’s also home to the tallest minaret in Dubai at 70 meters. It looks exactly like a lighthouse, which is fitting because many still look to the mosque as the spiritual anchor of the Old City.
If you love the “Khaleeji Minimalist” look, this is your spot. The walls are a sandy-grey and unadorned, making the perfect contrast to the handmade stained-glass windows and the Anatolian-style that will transport you back in time.
📍Where is it: Nestled in the heart of Bur Dubai, right between the Textile Souk and the Dubai Museum.
🚗How to get there: Take the Green Line Metro to Sharaf DG Station. It’s a short, scenic walk through the souks to get there.
Al Farooq Omar Bin Al Khattab Mosque
No budget for a trip to Turkey? Say no more. This mosque is famously inspired by the Blue Mosque in Istanbul. With 21 domes and four pencil-sharp minarets, it really is a sight to behold. The architecture is a mashup of Andalusian, Turkish, and Moroccan art. The only thing missing is the scent of roasting chestnuts in the air; otherwise, you’d basically be in Istanbul.
📍Where is it: You’ll find this beauty in Al Safa.
🚗How to get there: It’s best reached by car or taxi. It’s right off Sheikh Zayed Road, making it a super easy pit-stop.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
The “Grand” in the name is an understatement. This is the largest mosque in the UAE and the world, and arguably one of the most visited. We’re talking 24-carat gold chandeliers, millions of Swarovski crystals, and the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet. Abu Dhabi may be a trip for the Dubai peeps, but it is one that is worth it.
Architect Yusef Abdelki pulled inspo from Pakistan, Egypt, and beyond to create this white-marble masterpiece. The reflecting pools along the arcades make the whole building look like it’s floating at night.
📍Where is it: The heart of Abu Dhabi.
🚗How to get there: It’s about a 60-90 minute drive from Dubai. We recommend you grab your besties, put on a podcast, and make a night of it. There are also plenty of buses from Al Ghubaiba or Ibn Battuta stations if that’s more your style!
Want a change of pace? Check out these things to do during Ramadan!