About Al Noor Mosque
Al Noor Mosque, opened in 2005 along Al Buhaira Corniche, is one of UAE's only two mosques welcoming non-Muslim visitors (with Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque). Modeled after Istanbul's Blue Mosque with Ottoman architectural style, it features beautiful white stone, two minarets, and a central dome. The "Open Doors, Open Minds" program offers free Monday morning tours led by Emirati guides who explain Islamic faith, prayer rituals, and UAE culture in an inclusive environment fostering interfaith dialogue. Pair this stop with the Sharjah guide and the wider United Arab Emirates overview.
⏰ Opening Hours & Best Times
- Public tours: Monday 10:00 AM only (must book in advance)
- Duration: 1.5 hours including Q&A session
- Private group tours: Available by special arrangement for educational groups
- Regular prayer times: Mosque closed to non-Muslims (5 daily prayers)
- Book ahead: Reserve online at alnoormosque.ae - tours fill up weeks in advance
💰 Costs
- Tour entry: Free (donations welcome)
- Booking: Free online reservation required
- Modest dress: Required - abayas and headscarves provided free for women
- Traditional food: Arabic coffee and dates served after tour (included)
- Donations: AED 20-50 ($5-14) appreciated but not required
Advance booking essential: Register at alnoormosque.ae at least 1-2 weeks ahead. Tours extremely popular and fill quickly.
🎯 Why Use a Guide
- Islamic education: Learn about Islam's five pillars, prayer rituals, Qur'an from knowledgeable Muslims
- Cultural dialogue: Opportunity to ask questions about Emirati culture and religion in respectful setting
- Architectural insights: Understand Ottoman design influences, mosque symbolism
- Interfaith understanding: Guides trained in interfaith dialogue, creating welcoming environment
- Respectful interaction: Ensure appropriate etiquette and behavior in sacred space
- Traditional hospitality: Experience Emirati generosity with coffee and conversation
✨ Don't Miss
- 🕌 Ottoman architecture: Blue Mosque-inspired design with white stone facade
- 🎨 Interior calligraphy: Beautiful Arabic inscriptions of Qur'anic verses
- 🌙 Central dome: Intricate geometric patterns and natural lighting
- ☕ Arabic coffee ceremony: Traditional hospitality with dates after tour
- ❓ Q&A session: Open dialogue about Islam, women's roles, Emirati life
- 👘 Wearing abaya: Experience traditional modest dress (women)
- 📖 Islamic texts: See beautiful Qur'an manuscripts and learn about Islamic art
📝 Practical Tips
- Book 2-3 weeks ahead: Tours extremely popular, fill quickly online
- Dress code: Loose clothing, long sleeves, long pants/skirts. Abayas/scarves provided for women
- Remove shoes: Required before entering prayer hall - wear socks or go barefoot
- Arrive 15 min early: Time for registration and modest dress preparation
- Respectful questions: Ask anything - guides encourage curiosity and open dialogue
- Photography limited: Ask permission before taking photos, especially of people
- Combine with Al Majaz: Waterfront park and Sharjah Fountain nearby for full day visit