Dubai is gearing up to unveil a floating mosque at Dubai Water Canal next year as part of a unique religious tourism initiative spearheaded by the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department. This ambitious project, valued at a whopping AED55 million, will feature three floors, with a distinctive underwater prayer hall designed to accommodate around 50 to 75 worshippers.

However, as news of this intriguing project surfaced, it didn’t take long for residents to express their opinions on the matter

The reactions have been a mixed bag, reflecting a wide spectrum of sentiments.

#Dubai to open a floating mosque next year at Dubai Water Canal as part of a religious tourism drive revealed today by the emirate's Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department. pic.twitter.com/lOoLCHIcH6

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— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) September 21, 2023

Some residents couldn’t help but marvel at the innovative concept, hailing it as a testament to the city’s ability to push boundaries

They saw it as a fitting tribute to the UAE’s deep-rooted history of pearl diving and its profound connection with the sea.

One user on Lovin Dubai couldn’t contain their excitement and said,

“In a country where stunning architecture is the norm, why is this a crime? Not sure why people are hating, but these beautiful buildings can change the wrong image some people have about Islam. I personally know so many expats who started learning about Islam and even converted just because they visited The Sheikh Zayed Mosque in AD. Stop hating.”

However, not everyone was on board with the idea. Some residents expressed reservations, questioning whether the project aligned with the true purpose of a mosque

One concerned individual commented, “With all respect, this is missing the purpose of a mosque.”

Another user voiced their doubts, saying, “What’s the point? A mosque is a place for prayers, not for stunt and show off.”

The divisive nature of the project has even led to accusations that religion is being commercialized. One critic remarked, “Just madness. They’re turning religion into a business.”

On the other hand, defenders of the project argued that unique architectural wonders have the potential to change perceptions and promote understanding

As one supporter put it, “In a country where stunning architecture is the norm, why is this a crime?”

While opinions may differ, there’s no denying that Dubai’s floating mosque is set to make waves, both architecturally and emotionally, when it opens its doors to worshippers and visitors next year

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