Dubai is famous for its tall buildings and luxury living. But did you know it’s also a place where many different religions come together? In the middle of a busy city, you can find peaceful places where people go to pray and find inner peace. Let’s take a journey to discover seven special religious spots in Dubai.

  1. Jumeirah Mosque
    Start your spiritual tour at the iconic Jumeirah Mosque, the only mosque in Dubai open to non-Muslims. Construction of the mosque began in 1976 and was completed in 1979. It was built in the traditional Fatimid style, which originated from Syria and Egypt. Admire its stunning Islamic architecture and participate in the “Open Doors, Open Minds” program, which aims to promote interfaith dialogue.

    Address: Jumeirah Beach Road, Jumeirah 1, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

  2. Mary’s Catholic Church
    St. Mary’s Catholic Church is a vibrant religious community that conducts masses in various languages, making it welcoming for a diverse congregation. The initial structure of the church was built in 1967 and was dedicated to Mary Assumed into Heaven. In 1988, the Church of the Assumption was demolished and replaced with St. Mary’s Catholic Church. It hosts special events and celebrations during religious holidays, attracting both locals and tourists. The church’s serene ambiance is perfect for moments of reflection and prayer.

    Address: 247 Oud Metha Rd – Umm Hurair 2 – Umm Hurair Second – Dubai

    Image Source – Christian World, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

  3. Gurunanak Darbar Sikh Gurudwara
    Gurunanak Darbar is the largest Gurudwara in the Gulf region, symbolizing the Sikh community’s presence in Dubai. The construction of the gurdwara began in May 2008 and was completed in December 2011. The Gurudwara was founded in 2012 to serve over 50,000 Sikh residents in the emirate. Visitors are not only welcome but encouraged to partake in Langar, the community kitchen serving free meals to all, emphasizing the Sikh principles of equality and service.

    Address: 3806 Sheikh Zayed Rd – Jebel Ali Village – Dubai

    Image Source – Jpbowen, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

  4. Shiva Temple
    The Shiva Temple is an essential religious site for Hindus in Dubai, dedicated to Lord Shiva. In 1958, Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed al Maktoum permitted a Hindu temple to be built on the first floor on top of a warren of old-fashioned shops in Bur Dubai. It hosts various religious ceremonies, festivals, and cultural events, offering a glimpse into Hindu traditions. The temple’s intricate architecture and serene surroundings make it a spiritual retreat for devotees.

    Address: Opp.Dubai Museum – Al Fahidi St – Dubai – United Arab Emirates

    Image Source – Virendra Saklani/Gulf News

  5. Iranian Mosque
    The Iranian Mosque, officially known as the Imam Hussein Mosque, is a notable religious and cultural landmark in Dubai. There are two Iranian Mosques in Dubai, one in Bur Dubai and the other in Satwa and originally built in 1979. The Iranian Mosque is renowned for its stunning Persian architectural style. It features intricate tile work, intricate patterns, and a vibrant color palette, making it a visual delight. In addition to religious services, the Iranian Mosque often hosts cultural events and exhibitions that showcase Iranian art, music, and traditions, making it a cultural hub as well.

    Address: Ali Bin Abi Taleb Street – Dubai – United Arab Emirates

  6. Grand Mosque Dubai
    The Grand Mosque Dubai, also known as the Grand Bur Dubai Masjid, is a special place in the old part of Dubai, right between the Dubai Museum and the Textile Souk. The mosque was originally built in 1900, demolished and built again in 1960, and then underwent further rebuilding in 1998 (the present one). This mosque has a really tall tower called a minaret, which is 70 meters high. It looks a bit like a lighthouse. The mosque has been around for a long time. It started as a school where people could learn about the Quran. Way back in 1900, and now it can hold up to 1,200 people for prayers. The main purpose of this mosque is to teach people about Islamic and Arabic culture. They want to make sure that people know about these important traditions.

    Address: Ali Bin Ali Taleb St – Al Fahidi – Dubai

  7. Jain Temple
    The Jain Temple in Dubai serves a large Jain community of around 10,000 people. It’s the only Shwetambar Jain Temple in Bur Dubai, which is where most Jains live in the city. The temple is like a home (called ‘ghar derasar’) for the Jain community, preserving their rich heritage. Inside, you can find statues of important figures from Jainism, like Lord Vimalanatha, Lord Parshwanath, Lord Sumatinath, and the deity Padmavati Maata. It’s a special place for Jains in Dubai to come together and practice their faith.

    Address: Shri Vimalnath Jin Mandir, Al Musslla Tower, 6th Floor, Flat No. 65, Bur Dubai

  8. Hindu Temple Jebel Ali
    The biggest Hindu temple in Jebel Ali was built in 2022. It has eleven Hindu gods and goddesses inside. The temple looks beautiful with white walls, marble artwork, tall brass domes, fancy columns, and special lattice screens, all designed in a unique Arabian style. The temple has a big, fancy roof with a traditional Arabic design. Inside, there’s a beautiful pink lotus on the ceiling that makes the temple feel calm and peaceful.

    Address: 24G7+Q78 – Jebel Ali Village – Dubai

    Image Source – gulfnews.com

    Dubai takes pride in preserving its cultural heritage and providing places of worship for believers. The city’s diverse population warmly welcomes visitors, whether to mosques, churches, or temples, creating an atmosphere of positivity. Each place of worship in Dubai shares a common goal – to inspire peace, friendship, and happiness in the hearts of all who visit.