Dubai to modernise mosques, Eid prayer grounds, and funeral services
Authorities plan modern facilities while safeguarding cultural and religious identity
DUBAI’s religious infrastructure is set for a major transformation after the Dubai Municipality and the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) signed a strategic agreement to restore mosques, enhance Eid prayer grounds, and improve funeral services.
The initiative also aims to safeguard heritage sites while introducing modern construction technology, including the UAE’s first 3D-printed mosque expected in 2026.
#DubaiMunicipality partners with IACAD to develop religious facilities, preserve heritage mosques, enhance Eid prayer areas, and improve cemetery services, strengthening Dubai’s cultural identity. pic.twitter.com/VJ3zlW22kq
— بلدية دبي | Dubai Municipality (@DMunicipality) August 13, 2025
What will change?
The plan introduces a unified vision for mosque design and construction, integrating IACAD’s approved engineering and planning standards into the Dubai Building Code.
Dubai Municipality will restore and maintain heritage mosques, while IACAD will oversee daily operations, including appointing imams, muezzins, and preachers, running religious programmes, and ensuring daily cleaning.
شراكة استراتيجية بين إسلامية دبي وبلدية دبي للارتقاء بالمرافق الدينية وصون الإرث الإسلامي للإمارة.@DMunicipality #عام_المجتمع #إسلامية_دبي pic.twitter.com/Hbw0frNnb7
— إسلامية دبي (@IACADDUBAI) August 13, 2025
Donor collaboration will be encouraged, particularly for projects utilising advanced 3D printing technology. Temporary prayer facilities will also be set up for on-site workers.
How will funeral services improve?
Funeral and cemetery facilities will undergo a comprehensive upgrade, with Dubai Municipality developing and modernising mortuary washing areas to meet hygienic and Shariah requirements.
IACAD will supervise all religious aspects, from appointing trained staff to issuing permits for volunteers. Personnel will receive specialised training to ensure all burial procedures are carried out with full compliance to Islamic practices.
Eid grounds to be enhanced
The agreement includes beautification and facility upgrades at Eid prayer grounds, featuring new commercial outlets and improved access. Dubai Municipality will handle the development and permitting process, while IACAD will manage operations during prayer events.
Recent changes to parking rules around mosques have also been implemented – since August, parking near mosques is paid, except for a free one-hour slot during prayer times.