As the crescent moon marks the beginning of the Holy Month, Dubai is not just preparing with lights and lanterns; it is expanding its heart. To keep pace with its booming population and the spiritual surge of Ramadan, the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) has announced a significant expansion. With 10 new mosques already operational and five more set to open during the month, the city ensures every resident has a place of peace within reach.
Dubai’s new mosque in Ramadan 2026
The recent openings aren’t just concentrated in one area; they span across the city’s most vibrant residential hubs. From the quiet suburbs of Al Khawaneej to the bustling streets of Al Barsha, these new sanctuaries are ready to serve. Notable additions include the Zamzam Mosque in Al Barsha South 2, the Al Ghani Mosque in Airport City, and the Hind Saif Al Ghurair Mosque in Al Khawaneej 2. Worshippers can also visit the Ali bin Abdullah Gargash Mosque in Umm Hurair 2 and the Al Rahman Mosque in Umm Suqeim 2, among others. Each site was strategically chosen to reduce crowding and provide a more intimate, supportive environment for Taraweeh and Qiyam prayers. These aren’t just buildings; they are intended to be “spiritual and social hubs.” Mohammed Jassim Al Mansoori, Director of Customer Service at IACAD, highlighted that these openings reflect the leadership’s priority to facilitate religious practice. Beyond the prayer halls, the initiative aims to enhance the “quality of life” in neighborhoods. During Ramadan, these mosques will host various community events under the “Season of Al-Wolfa” (Season of Harmony), which focuses on family cohesion. From youth-focused initiatives like “Muezzin of the Neighborhood” to educational programs for children, the mosque is being repositioned as the center of the community’s social fabric.
Ramadan preparations
Opening a mosque is only the first step. To ensure a seamless experience for the thousands of daily visitors, IACAD has implemented a rigorous operational plan. This includes comprehensive maintenance checks, advanced cooling systems for the summer heat, and a specialized team of reciters known as the “Reciters of Dubai.” This group of world-class Imams with melodious voices will be distributed across these new and existing mosques to lead night prayers, creating a serene and spiritually uplifting atmosphere. Additionally, with Dubai’s push for inclusivity, many of these locations will offer English translations for Friday sermons, ensuring Ramadan’s message reaches everyone in the city’s diverse population.
A glimpse into the future
While 15 mosques are the immediate focus, Dubai’s vision for the future is even more ambitious. Plans are already in motion for a total of 55 new mosques across the emirate, costing approximately Dh475 million. Perhaps the most anticipated project is the UAE’s first 3D-printed mosque, scheduled for completion in mid-2026. This eco-friendly, high-tech sanctuary will accommodate 600 worshippers and serve as a symbol of how Dubai blends ancient tradition with cutting-edge innovation. For now, the focus remains on the present, ensuring that the 2026 Ramadan season is the most accessible and spiritually enriching one yet.
