Al Rashidiya Grand Mosque: A haven for reciters

Ensconced in one of the oldest neighbourhoods of the city, Rashidiya, and standing opposite the Dubai International Airport is the impressive Al Rashidiya Al Kabeer Mosque that has been playing host to a unique season of events throughout the holy month of Ramadan. Apart from the fact that the grand mosque has become a shiny hub for famous reciters of the Holy Quran from across the world - 18 Qaris from world over - there is another reason for its popularity. Al Rashidiya Grand Mosque was built under the orders of the late Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, over 40 years ago and has become a popular place for the faithful every holy month.
Dr Omar Al Khatib, executive director for mosques affairs with the department of Islamic affairs and charitable activities in Dubai, said: "Most people come to this mosque because it is one of the oldest mosques of the emirate, established by the very popular and much loved Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, father of  His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai."
The mosque also serves free traditional Iftar meal to almost 500 people everyday on its premises. 
It is not hundreds but thousands that flock to the mosque, especially during the Taraweeh prayers led by some well-known imams from different countries such as Mufti Menk, Sheikh Mishary Al Afasy, Sheikh Saad Al Ghamidi and more, who raise the spirits of the worshippers by their beautiful recital of the Quran in different styles ranging from Egyptian and Kuwaiti to Yemeni.
Dr Omar Al Khatib said that every year the fans of Sheikh Mishary, widely known for his tuneful and inspiring recitation, throng the mosque and for that they have also made special parking arrangements with the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). The Civil Defence and the Dubai Water and Electricity Authority are also involved to help in making arrangements on a big scale.
Due to its central location and close vicinity to the metro station, a number of ladies also throng the mosque. The management have installed a huge and fully equipped tent for women next to the mosque, which can accommodate up to 3,000 worshippers for Taraweeh and Qiyam prayers.
Another reason for its popularity is that although many mosques do not allow children on their premises, the management of the Rashidiya Grand mosque has made arrangement for women with young children. Attached to the huge tent (khaimah) is a special section for children, which is manned by security apart from a couple of supervising staff.
At the end of every week, on Thursdays and Fridays, the mosque holds Ramadan lectures after Taraweeh prayers in different languages, keeping in mind the people of different nationalities who visit the mosque. The Ramadan lectures are given by renowned speakers and cover topics related to improving everyday life in the light of Quran and Hadith.
saman@khaleejtimes.com