Considered as the United Arab Emirates’ largest mosque – the Grand Mosque in Dubai is at the centre of the city’s religious hub. The mosque was originally intended as a Quaranic School, where children could come and learn the Quran through memory. It was first built in 1900 AD in true traditional Islamic architectural design. Today, the mosque has been rebuilt while the original style and design still remain.
With the rebuilding of the Grand Mosque of Dubai an addition to the construction in the form of a tall minaret was included. Currently towering over the city at 231feet the minaret is the tallest in Dubai and is a major tourist attraction for Muslims and non-Muslims alike.
Visitors to the grand mosque are always awed by the sheer size of its constructions. Set near ruler’s court towards the creek of bur Dubai, the Grand Mosque comprises of over 40 domes, of which nine domes are the largest and are decorated with sand coloured walls, stained glass paneling and large wooden shutters. The Grand Mosque through its size and beauty has come to symbolize the religious aspects of its culture.
The new interior designs, as tourists would agree do not detract from the traditional designs of the old city of Bhur Dubai. Most tourists like to visit the mosque at night, since it is lit up and the beauty of the stained glass panels under the lights could be appreciated more.
The Grand Mosque’s designs reflect their share of Persian influences as seen clearly through its blue mosaic type worked domes and the sandish coloured front elevations. The intricately carved wooden structures and stain glass have all been made by hand. Although Non Muslims are not allowed into the Mosque, it is possible for those tourists to visit the tall Minaret, from where pictures of the inside of the mosque could be taken.
After a tiring day of exploring Dubai, to relax and recover checking into a luxury hotel in Dubai would be ideal. The Raffles Dubai is a popular option for those looking to pamper themselves at a Dubai hotel.
