In a significant move to modernize and preserve Dubai’s religious infrastructure, a newly signed strategic agreement between the Dubai Municipality and the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) outlines a comprehensive plan to improve mosques, prayer grounds, and funeral services across the city.
1. Heritage Mosques: Restoration and Preservation
Central to this initiative is the preservation and restoration of heritage mosques in Dubai. The Dubai Municipality will oversee the restoration work to maintain the cultural and architectural integrity of these historical sites.
Meanwhile, IACAD will manage the operational aspects, such as appointing imams, muezzins, and preachers. In addition, daily cleaning services will be handled by IACAD to maintain the sanctity of these sacred spaces. Notably, the use of 3D printing technology is expected to support mosque construction, enabling easier collaboration with donors to fund these vital community spaces.
In line with these upgrades, Dubai is preparing to unveil the first-ever 3D-printed mosque in the UAE, scheduled for completion in 2026.
2. Funeral and Cemetery Services: Comprehensive Overhaul
Another area of focus is the overhaul of funeral and mortuary services. Dubai Municipality will upgrade the mortuary washing facilities, which are crucial in adhering to both hygienic and Shariah-compliant practices. This modernization effort aims to meet the growing needs of the city’s population, ensuring that all procedures are performed with dignity, respect, and religious adherence.
On the operational side, IACAD will oversee all Shariah-compliant aspects of funerals. This includes the appointment of skilled staff for washing, shrouding, and burial practices. IACAD will also focus on training personnel, issuing permits for volunteers, and ensuring full compliance with religious procedures.
3. Eid Prayer Grounds: Modernization and Beautification
The final aspect of the agreement addresses the Eid prayer grounds. Dubai Municipality will undertake significant beautification projects, upgrading these spaces to ensure they meet the city’s evolving needs while also making them more accessible and welcoming.
This includes incorporating modern construction features for commercial outlets in the area, ensuring visitors have a more enjoyable and convenient experience during the busy Eid period.
Meanwhile, IACAD will continue to handle the day-to-day management and operations of the grounds, ensuring the smooth running of prayers, services, and other activities that take place during the festival.
Alongside the renovation and upgrading of facilities, there have been recent changes to parking around mosques. Since August, spaces near mosques became paid parking zones with the exception of one hour during prayer times.
