History, Things to See, Timing & More
The Middle East has been creating records for its breathtaking skyscrapers. However, the country also proudly preserves the essence of culture and heritage and will find proof of it in Sharjah. The cultural capital of the Emirates, Sharjah is one of the tranquil destinations that welcomes cultural interchange amidst visitors from every ethnicity.
In addition, being the cultural capital, Sharjah hosts approximately 600 mosques. While most of these are only for Muslims, a handful of the mosques allow visitors from other faiths as well, and the Al Noor Mosque is one of them. The overall beauty, architecture, and ambiance of the museum will promise you an unforgettable time here. Hence, are you interested in learning more? Let’s get started.
Overview of Al Noor Mosque
The breathtaking Al Noor Mosque, to begin with, is the city’s most famous tourist destination. Out of 600 mosques, Al Noor boasts the awe-inspiring traditional Ottoman design. Furthermore, the picture-perfect setting of the Khalid Lagoon running along the banks of the mosque oomphs up its beauty. Al Noor is the only mosque in the Emirates, open to both Muslims and non-Muslims. The mosque opened its doors in 2005 and was built during the same year. It enlightens the visitors on Islamic history, culture, and traditions. Hence, real history aficionado spends a great time here surrounded by so many historical facts and proofs. In addition, it is huge enough to accommodate 2000 people and has a separate space dedicated to women.
Historical Facts of Al Noor Mosque
- Al Noor Mosque was built in the year 2005. The wife of the Ruler of Sharjah- her highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi funded the architecture.
- Just like the other awe-inspiring mosques in the Emirates, Al Noor boasts an impressive structure due to the inspirations and ideas taken from the Ottoman and Turkish mosques.
- It is a significant landmark of Sharjah with a cultural identity.
Architecture
All history fanatics will love exploring the Al Noor Mosque for its grandeur and poise. From a distance, it beckons visitors with its two minarets and a center dome. Besides, there are 34 other smaller domes. However, the feature that will leave your jaw drop open is the interior of the primary dome. Hence, Sharjah’s Al Noor Mosque is definitely a must-visit attraction in the city.
Architectural Facts
- The inspirations of the mosque have been taken from Istanbul’s Blue Mosque, especially the colossal primary dome, semi-domes, and minarets.
- Furthermore, the elaborate Arabic calligraphy and Islamic geometric patterns inside the main prayer hall are quite praiseworthy.
- Besides, what attracts visitors and passersby are the 34 domes and the two majestic minarets ruling Sharjah’s skyline.
- Find it in the Buhaira Corniche, with an ecstatic view of the Khalid Lagoon as the mosque backdrop.
Best Time to Visit
- Reach before sunset as the mosque beautifully decks up on the golden hour. Besides, hundreds of butterflies fluttering in the garden will leave you speechless for sure.
- In addition, admire the magnificent views of the sea at Al Noor Island.
- A golden hour or sunset is the best time in the city to click Instagram-worthy pictures.
- Alternatively, the best you can do is book a Sharjah city tour package from City Tour in Dubai to visit the Al Noor Mosque along with other attractions of Sharjah.
What not to miss in Al Noor Mosque?
Sharjah’s Al Noor Mosque is indeed a beautiful creation of the Middle East. The striking part of the mosque is definitely the Ottoman-style architecture, Islamic calligraphy, and the serenity in and around the mosque. However, there are other attractions here that deserve all the attention.
- The prayer hall of the mosque features intricate Islamic geometric patterns, Arabic calligraphy, and vibrant chandeliers.
- In addition, the mihrab (prayer niche) and minbar (pulpit) have alluringly beautiful craftsmanship.
- Besides, the peaceful ambiance inside makes it perfect for worship.
- Furthermore, the mosque’s walls and ceilings have Quran verses inscribed in Arabic calligraphy- that looks absolutely magnificent!
- Certainly, it’s the right place if you want to catch glimpses of praiseworthy Islamic art and learn its importance in spirituality.
- Moreover, the gorgeous unparalleled vistas of the Khalid Lagoon in the background perfectly complement the splendor of Al Noor.
How to Reach?
- Location- Corniche St, Al Majaz Waterfront, Buhaira Corniche
- By Bus- Several buses are available that stop near the mosque. Bus lines 14, 15, and 88 stop near the mosque.
- By Car- You can put Buhaira Corniche on your car’s GPS and directly reach the location.
- By Private Transfers, You can also contact City Tour in Dubai to separately book optional private transfers.
- Parking Facilities- You will find a free parking spot near the mosque. However, getting one can be challenging on Fridays.
Visiting Hours
There are special guided tours available inside the Al Noor Mosque for non-Muslim visitors (available daily, except on Fridays).
- Public Visits- Monday to Thursday from 10 am
- Private Visits- Sunday to Thursday. For bookings, kindly contact City Tour in Dubai.
Tips to follow
- A mosque is a religious site. Therefore, kindly wear modest outfits with full-length sleeves when visiting. Also, choose full-length clothes as a sign of respect towards the culture. Women must wear a headscarf (available on-site).
- The mosque won’t open for visitors at the time of prayers. Hence, you must plan your visit accordingly.
- Furthermore, you can take your camera inside. However, always get permission before clicking the photos.
Nearby Places to Visit
The majestic Al Noor Mosque is worth appreciating and visiting in Sharjah. However, there are other must-visit attractions in the city to checkout.
Final Words
Al Noor is the Emirate’s only mosque in Sharjah that lets non-Muslim visitors explore its innate beauty. Therefore, this fact has turned many tourists to its side. Hence, if you really want to find out about the Islamic culture and traditions’ nitty-gritty, then this complete guide will definitely be useful. So, don’t forget to fly to Sharjah with City Tour in Dubai.
