Dubai is planning to unveil the world’s inaugural floating mosque, with an expected price tag of approximately Dh55 million.
The ambitious Religious Tourism Project, intended to promote Islamic travel in the emirate, has been announced by the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department of Dubai. The groundbreaking building, which comprises three stories with distinct uses, is expected to be completed by 2024. An underwater prayer space can be found on the first floor, a multipurpose hall on the second floor, and an Islamic exhibition on the third floor. This ambitious project, with seating for 50 to 75 worshippers, seeks to be a symbol of spiritual peace and cultural enrichment.
The mosque will also host a Quranic exhibition tracing the development of Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s Quran from its conception to the distribution of the most recent copies worldwide. Dr. Hamad Al Sheikh Ahmed Al Shaibani, the Director General of the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department in Dubai, along with other distinguished department representatives, attended the press conference at the department’s headquarters for the unveiling of the historic project. Ahmed Khalfan Al Mansouri, Cultural Communication Consultant at the Department, stated, “The UAE has the potential for international tourism, and we believe in the concept of humanity as a greater and more comprehensive idea than any other prevailing in our time.”
In addition to emphasizing the UAE’s reputation for safety, hospitality, and openness to diversity, he stressed the significance of tourism as a means of bridging cultures and as a major attraction for tourists and investors. The “Religious Tourism Project in Dubai” aims to showcase Dubai’s reputation as a leading destination for religious travel worldwide, welcoming tourists from all backgrounds. It aligns with the Dubai 2025 strategy’s objective of becoming the most visited city globally by that year. According to Dr. Abdullah Ibrahim Abdul Jabbar, Head of the Religious Tourism Initiative, the concept includes various initiatives such as the Dubai Iftar, a unique gathering of religious leaders, and visits to notable, new, and old mosques. The “Hala Ramadan” campaign also encompasses social, athletic, and educational programs that promote harmony and cross-cultural interaction.
Furthermore, he discussed the Quranic Garden, which offers both Muslim and non-Muslim tourists a glimpse into Emirati traditions during festivities while fostering cultural exchange and joyful celebrations. It includes a section dedicated to the Prophet’s medicine and festive markets near significant mosques and shopping malls. Furthermore, Dubai will host discussions, issue fatwas, and offer various programs to enhance its appeal as a travel destination for tourists of all backgrounds, including Muslims and non-Muslims. With the completion of this extensive project, Dubai will expand its international influence and may expect a 3–4% increase in tourist numbers, further promoting intercultural understanding and the blending of cultures.
- Misleading Video Alters Prime Minister Shehbaz’s Speech Targeting Political Rival, Not His Party - 21/04/2024
- ATC Grants Three-Day Remand for Suspects in Ichhra Bazaar Harassment Case - 19/03/2024
- Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh Lead World in Severe Smog Crisis, Exceeding WHO Guidelines - 19/03/2024
