Mosques of Dubai: A Journey Through Time and Architecture - DIFC Mosque
Explore the history and architecture of diverse mosques across the Emirate
Roof view from inside of the mosque by Dubai Culture by Dubai CultureDubai Culture & Arts Authority
Modern façade and futuristic vision of Dubai
The dynamic metropolis is home to many buildings that are striking monuments of liberal thought and the power of human innovation.
Despite the prevailing modernity, the mosque's details reflect a deep authenticity and rich traditions. Its contemporary architecture is seamlessly integrated with classic Islamic elements, such as intricate geometric patterns, and calligraphic art.
Indside Vew of shelves for Quran and books. with Windows by Dubai Culture by Dubai CultureDubai Culture & Arts Authority
The grand mosque built in the Dubai International Financial Centre premises is a unique example of this harmony between tradition and modernity.
The design and elevation of the structure is unmistakably modern and completes the sequence of contemporary buildings on Gate Avenue’s promenade.
Between Tradition and Modernity
Interestingly, the mosque remains true to Islamic architecture as can be seen in the way it incorporates the elements of traditional mosque design, including the minaret and the mashrebiya. However, every element of design has been reinterpreted in a contemporary context.
Mosque Wide angle view in day light by Dubai Culture by Dubai CultureDubai Culture & Arts Authority
The main edifice is in the shape of a cube, attached to a slanting roof to emphasize the central structure – the way a dome would in traditional architecture.
The design treats the minaret as a separate element distinct from the mosque, and assigns the mihrab as an inseparable attribute of the mosque.
On one hand, some elements are made to keep with tradition, like the design of the place of ablution and its location in an open place, just outside the mosque premises.
On the other, the adapted rendering of prevalent design traits is no less than a study in the evolution of Islamic architecture.
Inside View with Wall and Imam Place by Dubai Culture by Dubai CultureDubai Culture & Arts Authority
For instance, the mashrebiya that enwraps the mosque and the minaret is envisaged as a perforated metal screen that filters light during the day
And creates a luminescent lattice enveloping the building at night - unlike its traditional counterpart that was designed to offer privacy and regulate airflow.
The mihrab in marble and the hanging chandeliers are other examples of time-travel in design. Essentially a part of mosque-interiors, they have been re-introduced in their truly modern forms.
The new minimalistic approach has also chosen monochromatic colours – white on the facades and yellow for interior spaces.
Mosque Wide angle view in Day Light by Dubai Culture by Dubai CultureDubai Culture & Arts Authority
Situated on the upper floor of the Gate Avenue shopping center, the Grand Mosque was built for those working or residing at DIFC.
It has space for 500 worshippers and has a dedicated prayer area for ladies. Designed by the global architectural firm RMJM, it is indeed what DIFC wanted it to be – a beacon of modern Islamic design.
The modern design treats the minaret as distinct and distant from the main cube-shaped structure of the mosque.
Mosque Wide angle view at Night by Dubai Culture by Dubai CultureDubai Culture & Arts Authority
The backlit mashrebiya elements on the mosque and the minaret enhance its aesthetic presence at night.
AerialView of the whole mosque by Dubai Culture by Dubai CultureDubai Culture & Arts Authority
Situated on the upper floor of the Gate Avenue shopping center, the mosque is one with the structural language of the DIFC neighbourhood.
Moseque Insdie wide angle view by Dubai Culture by Dubai CultureDubai Culture & Arts Authority
Hanging chandeliers, a traditional element of décor, finds an unmistakably modern expression inside the mosque.
Inside View with Wall and Imam Place by Dubai Culture by Dubai CultureDubai Culture & Arts Authority
A remarkable example of reinterpreted form and substance is the mihrab in marble.
