Eid Al Fitr 2022 in UAE: Six mosques to visit during the holidays

There's no better way to mark the Islamic festival of Eid Al Fitr than by visiting a mosque in the UAE.

Visitors must abide by mosque etiquette - women must wear a headscarf, while both men and women must wear long-sleeved, loose clothing and take off their shoes. Here are six mosques to visit during the upcoming nine-day break:

Jumeirah Grand Mosque

One of two mosques in Dubai that allow in non-Muslims six days a week, it was opened in 1979 and is built in the Fatimid architectural style.

Guided 75-minute tours of the mosque cost Dh 29 and end with a complimentary light Emirati buffet that includes Arabic coffee, tea, dates, luqaimat and chebab. The morning and afternoon visits begin at 10am and 2pm, respectively, on all days except Fridays.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Located in Abu Dhabi, this is the country’s largest mosque, built in traditional Islamic, Moorish and Mughal architectural styles.

Entry to the cultural landmark is free, although pre-booking is necessary for non-worshippers, who must obtain an access pass online. Visiting hours are 10am to 6pm from Monday through Sunday and 3pm to 6pm on Fridays.

Sheikh Mohammed Bin Salem Al Qasimi Mosque

Located in the Old Ras Al Khaimah area, this mosque is over 200 years old and is one of the oldest in the UAE. The mosque is an architectural masterpiece overlooking a hill rising above the Arabian Sea and still offers daily prayers.

The mosque was last restored in 2013 with plaster, coral stone and beach rock on the external façade and a palm frond canopy roof.

Al Bidyah Mosque

Located in Fujairah, this is the oldest mosque in the UAE, thought to date back to 1446; its origins largely remain a mystery. The mosque is uniquely built of mud and stone with four centrally supported layered.

The mosque still continues to hold daily prayers and is open to visitors at no charge. The area is also a sight, as it features local flora, ruins of ancient forts and traditional craft stalls.