New mosque opens in UAE, can accommodate 300 worshippers

The Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) in Dubai has rebuilt an old mosque in Hatta that can now accommodate around 300 worshippers – both men and women - at a time.

Located amidst the mountainous region of Hatta, the Obaid Al-Qatami Al-Suwaidi Mosque spans over an area of 1133.42 square metres and was built in a simple traditional local style. Additionally, the mosque that adapts the original Islamic style of architecture, also has a number of special facilities for people of determination.

The mosque has a concrete white dome in the middle of its roof, and is flanked by one minaret that has a height of 25 metres. It also includes lodgings for the imam, and parking lots for worshippers, as well as places designated for ablution.

The mosque was funded originally by Mohammed Obaid Al-Qatami, but it has now been rebuilt with funds donated by Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, UAE's Minister of Finance, in 2020.

Dr Hamad Al Sheikh Ahmed Al Shaibani, Director General of IACAD, along with Mohammed Ali bin Zayed Al Falasi, executive director of the Mosques Affairs Sector; Betti Abdullah Al Jumairi, executive director of the Institutional Support Sector; and Abdullah Kankzar, director of the External Centers Department attended the opening of the mosque.

IACAD is responsible for overseeing the mosque by providing its services keeping in mind the highest standards in the field, said an official at the authority, emphasising that the authority aims to enhance the role of mosques and their importance for individuals and society.

saman@khaleejtimes.com