Ramadan gift: Dubai announces construction of 55 mosques, expansion of Friday sermons in English

Dubai: In an announcement that comes just ahead of Ramadan, Dubai has revealed that it is constructing 55 new mosques and aims to expand Friday sermon translations into English across 70% of mosques.

The Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) in Dubai on Tuesday announced these developments as part of its latest report on the Qualitative Achievements of the Mosque Affairs Sector in 2024.

Mohammed Ali bin Zayed Al-Falasi, Executive Director of the Mosque Affairs Sector at IACAD, highlighted the department’s vision to integrate traditional Islamic architecture with cutting-edge sustainability solutions. “Our efforts in 2024 focused on implementing strategic projects that combine Islamic identity and distinguished architectural heritage on one hand, and the latest sustainable technologies on the other. We always strive for our mosques to be a model in providing services and promoting Islamic values,” he said.

Major expansion plans

As part of its ongoing expansion, Dubai inaugurated 24 new mosques in 2024, built at a cost of Dh172 million. They can accommodate 13,911 worshippers.

Now, construction is underway for an additional 55 mosques, with an investment of Dh475 million. The new mosques will have the capacity to accommodate 40,961 worshippers across the emirate, IACAD revealed.

To further support the growing needs of worshippers, 54 new plots of land have been allocated for future mosque construction, ensuring extensive service coverage across the emirate.

“The sector is currently preparing the “Mosque Guide,” aimed at achieving a 7-star rating for mosques based on sustainability standards. Future projects include enhancing the translation of Friday sermons into English to cover 70% of mosques, promoting the inclusivity of the Islamic message,” IACAD announced.

Landmark achievements

In a landmark achievement last year, Dubai opened its first self-sustaining mosque, which cost Dh18.15 million and has a capacity of accommodating around 500 worshippers.

The mosque is a significant step towards environmental sustainability, featuring energy-efficient designs that have helped “reduce the carbon footprint of Dubai’s mosques by 5%,” exceeding initial targets.

“Energy efficiency improved by 20% thanks to the installation of air quality measurement devices,” said IACAD.

Further pushing the boundaries of innovation, work commenced on the UAE’s ‘first 3D-printed mosque’ expected to open in the second quarter of 2026. This project cements Dubai’s status as a global hub for advanced technology and sustainable development, IACAD pointed out.

However, no update was provided for the world’s first floating mosque with an estimated cost of Dh55 million which was first announced in September 2023.

Dh50million donation raised

The sector also processed 16,291 Qibla determination requests and resolved 1,232 mosque-related complaints, achieving a 100% resolution rate, IACAD said. Additionally, the “Integrated Packages initiative” streamlined donor approvals, generating over Dh50 million in financial contributions.

In terms of professional specialisation support, the sector collaborated with the School of Architecture at the American University to train students in mosque design and engineering using modern technology, supporting localization efforts and the development of young talents.

Recent mosque openings

Just a few days ahead of Ramadan, Dubai has seen the inauguration of new mosques.

The Ibrahim Ali Al Gergawi Mosque, was inaugurated in Mirdif last week. It was opened in the presence of Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs, and other dignitaries. Covering 2,226 square metres, the mosque accommodates 544 worshippers and features indoor parking, dedicated ablution areas, and inclusive facilities to cater to diverse community needs.

Located in Al Barsha (Arjan), the Ata Al-Rahman Mosque was inaugurated on Sunday in the presence of Ahmed Darwish Al Muhairi Director General of IACAD, and Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Director General of the Dubai Land Department. Built over 1,275 square metres, the mosque accommodates 504 worshippers and features modern architecture that blends authenticity with contemporary design.

It includes facilities such as an Imam and muezzin residence, dedicated prayer spaces for women, ablution areas, parking, and accessible pathways for people of determination, ensuring an inclusive worship experience.

IACAD said its achievements are driven by quality projects that meet the needs of worshippers and align with the aspirations of the emirate towards excellence and leadership.