Dubai, known for its innovative mega projects, has unveiled plans for a unique floating mosque set to be constructed on the Dubai Canal in 2024. This ambitious project will be the world’s first mosque of its kind.
The floating mosque will consist of three floors. Interestingly, the third floor will be submerged and will function as a prayer hall, designed to accommodate between 50 to 75 worshippers. The remaining two floors, situated above water, will feature a hall dedicated to Islamic lectures and workshops.
In terms of its interior layout, the mosque will house an indoor male seating area along with a coffee shop that offers outdoor seating on its ground floor. The topmost level will provide both indoor and outdoor seating sections exclusively for women.
#Dubai to open a floating mosque next year at Dubai Water Canal as part of a religious tourism drive revealed today by the emirate's Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department. pic.twitter.com/lOoLCHIcH6
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) September 21, 2023
Conceptualized by the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) of Dubai, the floating mosque is an integral component of the emirate’s initiative to boost religious tourism. The project comes with an estimated budget of Dhs55 million.
Ahmed Khalfan Al Mansouri, the cultural communication consultant at IACAD, emphasized the mosque’s significance, describing it as an “important attraction”. Once inaugurated, the mosque will extend an open invitation to people from all faith backgrounds. However, all visitors are advised to adhere to a modest dress code and maintain decorum in line with religious customs.
Upcoming Megaprojects in Dubai
Dubai’s horizon promises even more architectural wonders. Recently, on May 31, 2023, the blueprint for Palm Jebel Ali was revealed. The project envisions a destination replete with hotels, beaches, and other leisure and residential amenities, boasting a size that doubles the Palm Jumeirah.
Furthermore, the Al Maktoum International Airport, or Dubai World Central (DWC), located in Dubai South, is undergoing expansion, with aspirations to become the globe’s most extensive airport. Keep a lookout for other grand ventures, including The World Islands, The Dubai Islands, and the upcoming inauguration of One Za’abeel later this year.