Guide to Jumeirah Mosque: A cultural landmark in Dubai

Drive anywhere in Dubai and you won’t get far without seeing at least a mosque or two. These mosques are places of worship for Muslims, but they’re also often spectacular works of architecture. Jumeirah Mosque, in particular, is one of the most famous mosques in the city. It is also one of the top cultural and historical places in Dubai. Being one of the few mosques in the UAE that allow non-Muslim visitors, Jumeirah Mosque Dubai is popular with residents and tourists who want to experience the culture of the city. The white stone facade, elegant minarets and beautiful landscaping of Jumeirah Mosque, located along the picturesque Jumeirah Beach Road make it a serene location.

Whether you’d like more information about the guided tours or are just curious about this iconic landmark, you’re in the right place. MyBayut shares all you need to know about the fascinating Jumeirah Mosque.

What’s special about this mosque?

While Jumeirah is popular for its quirky cafes and plethora of cosmetic and beauty clinics, the Jumeirah Mosque is actually one of the earliest landmarks of the area. It was built by the late HH Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai at the time. Things to know about the Jumeirah Mosque history is that construction began in 1976 and was completed in 1979. And one of the most interesting Jumeirah Mosque facts is that this landmark features on the AED 500 note!

Widely regarded as one of the most photographed mosques in Dubai, Jumeirah Mosque stands out for many reasons. It’s made entirely out of pure-white stone, in the traditional Fatimid style that originates from Egypt and Syria and features intricate geometric designs, Arabic calligraphy and keel motifs on the domes. It’s also known as the ‘two minaret mosque’ for the two minarets that frame a central dome. Jumeirah Mosque can accommodate 1,300 people, although the congregational Friday prayers will see people praying in the outer areas of the mosque as well!

The compound of Jumeirah Mosque contains the mosque itself, lush landscaping and shaded walkways leading to an outdoor ablution area, and an indoor majlis. Step inside to the main prayer hall, and you’ll be mesmerised by the series of elegant arches and columns, plush green carpet and stained glass windows. On the opposite end from the entrance is the mihrab, a niche in the wall that indicates the qibla or direction of prayer. The peach and blue ceilings are inscribed with verses from the Holy Quran. There is beautiful calligraphy, geometric motifs, intricate designs and chandeliers throughout.

What is the Jumeirah Mosque Guided Tour?

Jumeirah Mosque is not only known for its stunning architecture but also being one of the few mosques in the UAE offering tours to non-Muslims visitors. These tours are run by the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding with an ‘Open Doors, Open Minds’ policy. If you’ve ever been curious about the Islamic faith and local culture, the Jumeirah Mosque tour is a great place to start!

The Jumeirah Mosque tour starts at the majlis, the traditional sitting area in an Emirati household, where visitors need to register 30 minutes before the tour. Here, visitors can enjoy Emirati refreshments, which will include Arabic coffee and tea. Afterward, the tour guide will lead visitors to the ablution area to explain and demonstrate wudu, which is a cleaning ritual before performing the prayer. Then, visitors will proceed inside the main prayer hall, where they can learn more and ask questions about the local culture and faith.

JUMEIRAH MOSQUE TOUR TIMINGS

The guided tour takes place at 10:00 am from Saturday to Thursday. There are no tours of the mosque on Friday.

JUMEIRAH MOSQUE ENTRANCE FEE

While there is no entrance fee for the mosque, the guided tour costs AED 25 per person. No prior booking is required, although visitors must be at the entrance of the mosque 30 minutes before the tour.

JUMEIRAH MOSQUE LOCATION

The mosque is located in the upscale neighbourhood of Jumeirah 1, along the Jumeirah Beach Road. Wondering how to go to Jumeirah Mosque? If you’re coming from the direction of Abu Dhabi, take Exit 50 on E11 towards Al Safa Street/D71. Continue straight, then turn right onto Al Wasl Road/D92. Turn left onto 5B street, then 12A Street. Finally, turn right onto 17B Street and Jumeirah Mosque will be at the end of the road.

If you’re coming from the direction of Sharjah, take Exit 53 on E11 towards Al Dhiyafah Street/D73. Continue straight, then turn left onto Al Wasl Road/D92. From there, turn right onto 5B Street and follow the same directions as mentioned above to reach the mosque.

If you’re looking to use public transport, RTA buses 8, 9 and X28 stop near the mosque.

Worried about Jumeirah Mosque parking? There’s a large parking lot right next to the mosque, making it very convenient for visitors.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING JUMEIRAH MOSQUE IN DUBAI

• The best time to visit Jumeirah Mosque is usually during sunset when visitors can see the mosque lit up by the setting sun. It’s a beautiful sight to see and photograph, too!
• The Jumeirah Mosque timings for the guided tour for tourists is from 10:00 am daily except on Friday. Otherwise, the Jumeirah Mosque visiting hours are from 10:00 am – 08:00 pm daily. 
• When visiting the mosque, it’s best to wear modest clothing; women are requested to cover their hair with a scarf and keep their shoulders covered, according to the Jumeirah Mosque dress code. Visitors can also borrow traditional attire from the mosque itself.
• After your visit to the mosque, you’ll find there is so much more to do in the area. Grab a quick bite to eat at the eclectic cafes along Jumeirah Beach Road and shop at Mercato Mall, widely regarded as one of the best malls in Dubai. Visit the beachside leisure hotspot of La Mer and work on your tan at the Jumeirah Open Beach!
• Make sure to stay updated with the prayer times in Dubai before heading to the mosque.

And that wraps up our guide to the Jumeirah Mosque, one of Dubai’s most important landmarks! We highly recommend residents and tourists to visit this peaceful location and experience the solace of one of Dubai’s most beautiful mosque firsthand.

Want to see other iconic mosques in the UAE? Take a look at our handy guides to the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Abu Dhabi, which can accommodate 41,000 people and Sharjah Mosque, one of the newest mosques in the country. And subscribe to MyBayut for more articles on cultural and heritage spots in Dubai.