Dubai's Heritage Mosques to be Upgraded Under New Strategy
A strategic cooperation agreement between Dubai Municipality and the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) will restore and maintain the emirate's heritage mosques, safeguarding their traditional character and authentic architectural elements. This move embodies Dubai's broader commitment to balancing rapid urban growth with cultural conservation.
Under the agreement, Dubai Municipality will lead the restoration of these historical religious sites, ensuring their architectural identity remains intact. Meanwhile, IACAD will uphold operational standards, managing the appointment of imams, muezzins, and preachers, as well as overseeing daily cleaning and religious programming to preserve religious and cultural continuity.
A key component of the strategy includes enhancing Eid prayer grounds. These open-air spaces will be upgraded to better accommodate Dubai's expanding urban landscape and population, with upgraded designs and improved readiness to host large-scale gatherings during significant religious observances.
The agreement also extends to the improvement of funeral and cemetery services. Dubai Municipality will refine mortuary washing facilities and provide logistical enhancements, while IACAD will ensure that all Shariah-compliant and religious protocols are met, including staffing, training, licensing, and operational oversight.
This initiative is part of Dubai's evolving strategy to enhance institutional collaboration and improve residents' quality of life. As expressed by Ahmad Bin Ghalita, Director-General of Dubai Municipality, the agreement reinforces efforts to 'provide high-quality services that benefit the entire community while preserving the authentic character of historic mosques and prayer sites.' Dubai Government's Media Office emphasized the partnership is aimed at 'blending urban progress with heritage conservation.'
By forging a unified vision for mosque design and construction, this collaboration sets a blueprint for harmonizing modern infrastructure and deep-rooted cultural identity. The move sends a strong message: as Dubai continues to develop into a global urban hub, it remains deeply committed to preserving its rich religious and architectural heritage.
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