A landmark of old Dubai, the Grand Bur Dubai Masjid – also known simply as the Grand Mosque – is one of the city’s most important places of worship and a timeless example of Islamic architecture.
Located in Al Fahidi (Bur Dubai), it stands opposite Dubai Museum and captures the spirit of the emirate’s early days.
- Overview of the Grand Bur Dubai Masjid
- Location and how to get there
- Timings and entry details
- Dress code and visitor guidelines
- History and architecture
- Significance and nearby attractions
- Cultural and architectural experience
- Key takeaways
- FAQs
Overview of the Grand Bur Dubai Masjid
The Grand Bur Dubai Masjid is one of Dubai’s oldest and most significant mosques. Built originally in 1900 as a Qur’anic school, it was rebuilt in 1960 and again in 1998 to preserve its traditional style.
Today, it remains an active mosque for about 1,200 worshippers and a cultural landmark at the heart of Al Fahidi district – a place where spirituality meets history.
Location and how to get there
Here’s how to find the Grand Bur Dubai Masjid and the easiest ways to reach it, whether you’re travelling by metro, car, or traditional abra.
Exact location
Ali Bin Abi Taleb Street, Al Fahidi neighbourhood, Bur Dubai – directly opposite Dubai Museum and near the Ruler’s Court Office.
Getting there
- By Metro: Al Fahidi Metro Station (Green Line) – about a 10-minute walk (≈ 900 m).
- By Abra: Take a traditional wooden boat from Deira across Dubai Creek and walk through the textile souk.
- By Car or Taxi: Limited street parking is available around Al Fahidi Fort and Ali Bin Abi Taleb Street.
Timings and entry details
The mosque is open daily for Muslim prayers, following the five daily Islamic prayer schedules.
For non-Muslim visitors:
- Saturday to Thursday – 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
- Friday – 4:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
- Free guided tours – Sunday to Thursday, 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Access pauses during prayer times.
Entry: Free for all visitors; guided tours are complimentary.
Dress code and visitor guidelines
Respectful attire is required for all visitors:
- Women – cover head, arms, and legs with loose-fitting clothing.
- Men – no shorts or sleeveless tops.
- Remove shoes before entering any prayer area.
- Photography is allowed only in the courtyard and minaret areas.
Non-Muslims are welcome to join guided cultural tours, but they are not permitted inside the main prayer hall. Tours focus on the courtyard, minaret, and Islamic architecture.
History and architecture
Constructed in 1900 as a kuttab (Qur’anic school), the Grand Bur Dubai Masjid was rebuilt in 1960 and again in 1998 to reflect authentic Islamic architecture from the early 20th century.
Architectural features
- Minaret: 70 metres tall – the highest in Dubai – inspired by Anatolian and lighthouse designs.
- Domes: 54 total (9 large and 45 small) with delicate geometric motifs.
- Facade: Sandy-grey walls with Qur’anic inscriptions and arched doorways.
- Windows: Wood-framed and decorated with stained glass.
- Interior: Holds around 1,200 worshippers and features 24-carat gold-plated lamp fixtures.
Significance and nearby attractions
The Grand Bur Dubai Masjid is both a religious centre and a symbol of Dubai’s cultural heritage. It hosts large Friday and Eid prayers and appears on most heritage and architecture tours.
Nearby attractions
- Dubai Museum – located right opposite inside Al Fahidi Fort.
- Textile Souk – a colourful market filled with fabrics and souvenirs.
- Bastakiya Quarter – heritage neighbourhood showcasing wind-tower architecture.
- Hindu Temple – just a short walk away, highlighting Dubai’s religious diversity.
Cultural and architectural experience
Beyond its role as a place of worship, the Grand Bur Dubai Masjid provides a serene space to explore Dubai’s spiritual and cultural heritage. The intricate geometric designs, stained-glass windows, and tall minaret reflect a time when architecture and faith were deeply connected. Standing in the courtyard, visitors can hear the faint call to prayer blending with the sounds of nearby souks – a rare glimpse into the city’s past before its rise as a modern metropolis. Free guided tours often include explanations of Islamic art and Emirati traditions, offering insight into Dubai’s identity and heritage.
Key takeaways
The Grand Bur Dubai Masjid is a must-see for anyone exploring Dubai’s historic core. Located in Al Fahidi near Dubai Museum, it is open daily for prayers and offers free guided tours for visitors.
Entry is free, and modest dress is mandatory. Plan your visit outside prayer times and enjoy the cultural ambience of Bur Dubai’s oldest district.
FAQs
Yes – but only for guided tours covering the exterior and minaret areas. The main prayer hall is for Muslims only.
Saturday to Thursday 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m., Friday 4:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Guided tours run Sunday to Thursday, 9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
No–entry and guided tours are free of charge.
Al Fahidi Metro Station (Green Line) – approximately a 10-minute walk.
Dress modestly – cover shoulders and knees, and women should cover their hair with a scarf. Shoes must be removed before entering prayer areas.
