Amazing mosque tours for non-Muslims in the UAE
Mosques that are places of worship for Muslims, were previously not open to the idea of allowing people of other religion inside. However, as times changed, over the years an increased focus on tolerance and brotherhood has led most of these mosques to open their gates to non-Muslims. Guided mosque tours in the UAE for non-Muslims are popular with both residents and expats who are keen on developing an understanding of the local culture. Here’s a rundown of where visitors can partake of these tours in the UAE.
Mosque Tours for Non-Muslims in Abu Dhabi
The UAE is home to some of the most peaceful and culturally diverse cities in the world. Even with a growing population of international expatriates living in rental apartments in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and other cities – the country is predominantly Muslim. This makes the UAE home to some of the most spectacular mosques in the world.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi
With minarets that kiss the sky and astounding 82 domes that complement them, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi is an architectural marvel. Spread across 22,400 sq. mt., the mosque boasts miles of gorgeous floors covered in ice-white marble that gleams every time the playful sun rays touch it. This is the UAE’s largest mosque.
With the growing popularity of UAE mosque tours for non-Muslims, it is now fairly easier to get your hands on a properly guided tour of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Regardless of what religion you belong to, you can enter the mosque for free. The Sheikh Zayed Mosque administration conducts free guided tours multiple times during the day, but these tours are usually carried out in large groups.
- Tickets: Free
- Location: Al Rawdah
- Contact: +971-353-6666
- Timings: 09:00 am to 10:00 pm | 09:00 am to 12:00 pm, 03:00 pm to 10:00 pm (Friday)
Mosque Tours for Non-Muslims in Dubai
Jumeirah Mosque Tour in Dubai
Jumeirah Mosque is one of the most beautiful mosques in Dubai. The dominant landmark is the perfect depiction of medieval Fatimid architecture infused with modern Islamic traditions. Carved and completed entirely in stone, the structure is a tribute to modern Islamic architecture. The inherent beauty of the Jumeirah Mosque makes it one of the most fascinating mosque tours in the UAE for non-Muslims. These tours are a part of Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding’s efforts to promote cultural understanding of the Islamic religion.
- Tickets: AED 40
- Location: Jumeirah Beach Road, Jumeirah 1
- Contact: +971-353-6666
- Timings for guided tour: 10:00 am and 02:00 pm
- Days: Saturday to Thursday | Closed on Friday
Bur Dubai Grand Mosque
The Bur Dubai Grand Mosque is a striking cultural landmark located in the heart of Dubai’s historic district, near the Dubai Museum and Al Fahidi Fort. Known for its traditional Islamic architecture, the mosque features a large central dome, intricate geometric designs and the city’s tallest minaret.
While non-Muslims are not permitted inside the prayer hall, they can admire the exterior, learn about Islamic traditions and explore the surrounding heritage area. The mosque’s location makes it ideal for combining with a walking tour of Old Dubai. Visitors are advised to dress modestly and respect local customs when visiting the site.
- Tickets: Free
- Location: Opposite Dubai Musuem, Bur Dubai
- Timings for guided tour: 09:30 am to 11:30 am
- Days: Sunday to Thursday
Mohammed Bin Ahmed Al Mulla Mosque
The Mohammed Bin Ahmed Al Mulla Mosque, located in Dubai Marina, offers non-Muslim visitors an immersive cultural experience. The 45‑minute tour offered here includes a live prayer demonstration, a VR journey of Mecca, an informative Q&A session and light refreshments such as Arabic coffee and sweets
- Tickets: AED 10
- Location: Dubai Marina
- Timings for guided tour: 09:00 am to 10:00 am | 10:30 am to 11:30 am
- Days: Sunday to Thursday
Al Farooq Omar Bin Al Khattab Mosque Tour in Dubai
Built in 1988 and rebuilt in 2011, Al Farooq Omar Bin Al Khattab Mosque in Dubai holds a prominent stature for upholding Islamic teachings and traditions for years. In an attempt to share this rich Islamic culture with the outside world, the mosque joined other mosque tours in the UAE to welcome non-Muslims into its premises. The entire building complex includes the mosque and an Islamic Centre equipped with an impressive library that holds the wealth of Islamic teachings.
Tours at this mosque are conducted by the resident cultural guides of Al Farooq Omar Bin Al Khattab Mosque & Centre.
- Tickets: Free | Book on website
- Location: Al Safa 1
- Contact: +971-4-394-4448
- Timings: 10:00 am to 11:00 am | 02:15 pm to 05:00 pm
- Days: Monday to Friday
Mosque Tours for Non-Muslims in Sharjah
Al Noor Mosque in Sharjah
Talking about other popular mosque tours in the UAE for non-Muslims, the Al Noor Mosque in Sharjah is an excellent experience owing to its distinct Ottoman design. The city of Sharjah has 600 mosques spread across its different regions. The Al Noor Mosque stands out because of its architectural magnificence and ideal location. This mosque overlooks the Khalid Lagoon, giving it a quaint waterside charm that adds to its overall splendour.
Al Noor Mosque in Sharjah was the first mosque to operate mosque tours in the UAE for non-Muslims. There is usually no registration required for them as long as you make it to the mosque before 10:00 am. This tour is ideal for non-muslims living in rental apartments in Corniche Al Buhaira or the adjoining vicinity.
- Tickets: Free
- Location: Al Majaz 1
- Contact: +971-6-505-5888
- Timings: 10:00 am
- Days: Every Monday
Mosque tours in Ras Al Khaimah
Sheikh Zayed Mosque RAK
The Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Ras Al Khaimah, a modern structure echoing its Abu Dhabi namesake, is open to non-Muslim visitors by arrangement. While there are no scheduled daily tours, group visits can be coordinated through the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority. Entry is free, and the mosque offers insight into local Islamic traditions and contemporary mosque design.
- Tickets: Free
- Location: Dafan Al Khor
- Contact: Book through website
- Timings: 10:00 am
FAQs
Can I take photos during a mosque tour in the UAE?
Yes, you can usually take photos during mosque tours in the UAE, but with some rules. Photography is generally allowed in public areas and courtyards. However, avoid taking pictures of worshippers without permission. Always respect signs or guides’ instructions, as some prayer halls or times may restrict photography.
Do the tours offer insights into Islamic tradition and rituals?
Yes, mosque tours in the UAE often provide valuable insights into Islamic traditions and rituals. Guides typically explain the Five Pillars of Islam, prayer practices, architectural features and the cultural significance of mosques. These tours aim to promote understanding and are designed to be educational and welcoming to non-Muslims.
What is the dress code for non-Muslims at each mosque?
For a lot of you out there, one of these mosque tours in the UAE might be the very first time you enter inside a mosque. It is, therefore, imperative to ensure that you follow the necessary protocol required to be permitted inside the mosque. This quick guideline should have you covered for all that.
- You need to dress modestly. Keep the following in mind when it comes to choosing an attire to wear to a mosque in Dubai or the rest of the UAE.
- For women, this means your attire should be loose and long. You need to properly cover your legs and arms. Plus you wear a scarf that covers your head throughout the tour.
- Men must completely cover their bodies all the way to their knees. Wear clothes that adequately cover your shoulders. Take special care to conceal any visible tattoos that you may have on your body.
- With most mosque tours in the UAE, the relevant mosques provide abayas and hijabs for women to appropriately cover themselves. These articles are provided free of cost.
- You cannot roam around the mosque in your shoes. Deposit your shoes at the designated cubbies stationed at the entrance of each mosque. You may wear socks if you’re not comfortable walking around barefoot.
- Most mosque tours take place in the day time and the sun is harsh at that time. Wearing sunscreen and sunglasses is advisable. Also, try and keep yourself hydrated.
Do I need to book mosque tours in advance?
In the UAE, it’s generally recommended—but not always required—to book mosque tours in advance. Major mosques open to non-Muslim visitors, such as Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi or Jumeirah Mosque in Dubai, often offer scheduled guided tours that you can reserve ahead of time to guarantee your spot, especially during busy periods or holidays. While walk-ins are sometimes accepted, advance booking helps ensure availability, provides clear information on dress codes and timings, and offers a smoother experience overall.
If you are going with a Muslim tour guide, know that he/she may need a break to offer prayers in the mosque. If you need an uninterrupted tour, keep a track of prayer time in Dubai before you book your tour.
For more interesting tours and events from all around the UAE, stay tuned to Dubai’s top property blog – MyBayut.
