Dubai, UAE – April 9, 2025 — In a significant stride towards enhancing the emirate’s religious infrastructure, Dubai has inaugurated 16 new mosques during the first quarter of 2025.
The move, led by the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD), comes as part of a broader strategic plan to support charitable and developmental projects while fostering an environment conducive to worship.
The newly opened mosques, constructed at a total cost of Dh140 million, can accommodate up to 15,000 worshippers. They are spread across various residential areas of the emirate and are designed in accordance with modern architectural standards that reflect both Islamic heritage and contemporary functionality.
The initiative aligns with IACAD’s ongoing commitment to expand Dubai’s network of mosques in line with the city’s rapid urban development.
As Dubai continues to grow demographically and geographically, the department is ensuring that places of worship are available to meet the spiritual needs of residents in both established and newly developed communities.
Speaking on the occasion, Mohammed Jassim Al Mansouri, Director of Customer Service at IACAD, highlighted the importance of these projects in reinforcing the department’s vision.
“These achievements embody our commitment to developing the religious work system, enhancing our strategic partnerships with donors and mosque sponsors, and providing facilities that meet the highest standards of quality and efficiency,” he said.
In addition to the recent inaugurations, IACAD has also announced the allocation of 21 plots of land for the construction of new mosques in 15 different areas across the emirate.
These plans include 11 traditional mosques and 10 smaller prayer-time mosques, with construction being carried out in coordination with relevant authorities to address the demands of Dubai’s expanding urban footprint.
Al Mansouri praised the vital role played by donors in supporting these initiatives, describing their contributions as “blessed” and pivotal to the realization of the projects.
“The participation of donors in mosque construction is a reflection of the values of giving and solidarity that are deeply rooted in Emirati society,” he noted. “Their generosity helps create a lasting impact and supports the emirate’s comprehensive development goals.”
The department is also working to streamline administrative and technical procedures for mosque construction, ensuring efficient project execution and strict adherence to quality standards.
IACAD aims to foster a sustainable religious environment through well-planned mosque infrastructure that accommodates the spiritual, cultural, and social needs of the community.
With Dubai’s continued population growth and urban expansion, the efforts to bolster mosque capacity represent a proactive approach to meeting the city’s future needs.
The addition of these 16 mosques marks a key milestone in the emirate’s broader commitment to religious inclusion, cultural preservation, and community wellbeing.
Al Mansouri concluded by urging members of the public to continue supporting mosque-building initiatives and contributing to the religious and social fabric of the nation. “Together, we can build not only places of worship but also stronger, more connected communities.”