Mosques for the public, by the public in Dubai

Dubai - "Donations may also be given in paper envelopes and dropped at any of the 500 charity boxes fixed in the mosques of Dubai."

The emirate will have 17 new mosques against an initial value of Dh100 million at 16 different areas, as per an initiative launched on Tuesday morning.
Dr Hamad Al Shaibani, Director-General of the Department of Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities in Dubai, said the drive themed 'House in Paradise' is meant to build 17 new mosques at specified areas in need for this service.
"The public are urged to take part in the initiative at the areas of Al Barsha South-1, Dubai Industrial area, Dubai Sports city, Al Safa Valley-2, Burj Khalifa, Hatta, Al Rawiya-1, Al Habia-3, Dubai Internet City, Al Rawiya-3, Al Habiya-5, Al Qusais-3, Al Sofooh-2, Al Qouz Industrial area-3, and Al Jaddaf."
Ali Hassan Al Marzouqi, deputy manager of zakat and charity section, said the move is aimed to develop charity work in the emirate and give a chance to philanthropists to participate in building mosques. "The department is also geared up to meet the needs of important places which are heavily populated."
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was reported as saying: 'Whoever builds a mosque for the sake of Allah, like a sparrow's nest for Allah or even smaller, Allah will build for him a house in Paradise," he added.
Urging donation, Al Marzouqi said donors may contribute Dh200 by sending an empty SMS to number (4605) from and Etisalat or du telecommunications service providers, or by calling hotline (0527600500). "Contributions are also accepted at the bank account of the department of Islamic affairs and charitable activities with the Dubai Islamic Bank at: (AE140240001520074848301)."
Donations may also be given in paper envelopes and dropped at any of the 500 charity boxes fixed in the mosques of Dubai, he added.
"ATM deposits at the mosque account with the Dubai Islamic Bank (001520074848301) are fine."
Philanthropists may also donate in person or via the Emirates Charity app, the Emirates Charity website (www.ecp.ae), and by any exchange house of the Dubai Islamic bank, he said.
"Two hotlines (0506460266) and (0527600500) have been dedicated to answer people inquiries on the initiative."
ahmedshaaban@khaleejtimes.com

• Dubai