As the crescent moon for Ramadan 2026 nears, Dubai is making sure its residents have a place to pray right at their doorstep. The Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) has officially kicked off an expansion drive, opening 10 new mosques since the start of the year, with five more set to welcome worshippers before the holy month begins.
This isn’t just about construction; it’s about keeping up with the pulse of a city that never stops growing. With new communities popping up from Al Barsha to Nad Al Sheba, these spiritual hubs are designed to be the heart of Dubai’s neighborhoods.
Where are the New Mosques Located?
If you’ve been wondering if there’s a new spot for Taraweeh prayers near you, the list covers a wide footprint across the emirate. The department has strategically placed these mosques in high-growth areas where the demand for prayer space has skyrocketed.
The 10 mosques already open for daily prayers include:
- Zamzam Mosque in Al Barsha South 2
- Al Ghani Mosque in Airport City
- Al Hadi Mosque in Wadi Al Safa 5
- Hind Saif Al Ghurair Mosque in Al Khawaneej 2
- Ali bin Abdullah Gargash Mosque in Umm Hurair 2
- Al Walidain Mosque in Muhaisnah 2
- Dr Hussain bin Ghatti Mosque in Nad Al Sheba 1
- Amina bint Hamidan Mosque in Wadi Al Amardi
- Khalifa bin Sultan Al Habtoor and Sons Mosque in Nad Al Hamar
- Al Rahman Mosque in Umm Suqeim 2
These locations aren’t just random picks. Areas like Nad Al Sheba and Al Barsha South have seen a massive influx of families recently, making these new facilities a much-needed addition to the local infrastructure.
More Than Just a Place to Pray
In Dubai, a mosque is rarely just a building. It is a community anchor. Mohammed Jassim Al Mansoori, Director of Customer Service at IACAD, highlighted that these openings are part of a broader vision to enhance the quality of life for residents.
The goal is to create a “supportive spiritual environment.” This means these mosques are being built with the latest smart solutions and sustainable standards. From energy-efficient lighting to streamlined maintenance schedules, the city is using “smart management” to ensure these facilities stay pristine and welcoming for the thousands of worshippers expected during the peak hours of Ramadan.
Getting Ready for the Ramadan Rush
Ramadan is the busiest time of the year for any mosque in the UAE. To handle the crowds, the department is implementing a detailed operational plan. This includes everything from ensuring the air conditioning is crisp to managing the flow of worshippers during Friday prayers and the late-night Qiyam-ul-Layl sessions.
The five additional mosques scheduled to open during Ramadan will provide even more breathing room, helping to reduce congestion in older, central mosques. It’s all about making the spiritual journey as comfortable and accessible as possible for everyone, whether you’re a long-time resident or a visitor experiencing Ramadan in Dubai for the first time.
A Growing City Needs Growing Spaces
Dubai’s population growth is no secret. As the city expands outward into the desert and upward with new high-rises, the social infrastructure has to keep up. This mosque expansion drive is a clear sign that the government is prioritizing the spiritual and social well-being of its people alongside its economic goals.
By reinforcing the mosque’s role as both a spiritual and social hub, Dubai is ensuring that, even as the city becomes a global metropolis, it retains the community values that make it feel like home.
If you are planning your Ramadan schedule, now is the perfect time to visit one of these new locations and experience the serene, modern architecture that defines Dubai’s newest landmarks.
The opening of these 15 new mosques marks a significant milestone in Dubai’s 2026 urban plan. By blending traditional spiritual values with modern technology and strategic urban placement, the emirate is ensuring its residents are well-supported during the holiest month of the year and beyond. Whether you are living in Al Khawaneej or Nad Al Hamar, a new place of worship and community is now just a short walk away.
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