Al Bidya Mosque
Al Bidya Mosque is one of the oldest constructions located in the UAE and is comprised of four domes with different dimensions that make up its façade.
This unique architectural style has been able to stand through the years and is an UNESCO World Heritage site; this makes it a must-see destination for anyone who is interested in architecture.
Location
Al Bidya Mosque is the oldest mosque in the UAE which dates to 1446. Restored in March 2003, and under the supervision from an imam it’s open to visitors so long as they observe prayers and dress appropriately. For women, this means wearing scarves are required to wear a cover-ups for their heads and males should remove their shoes prior to entering.
This landmark is historically significant and provides an insight into the engineering and architecture practices of ancient civilisations. It is a stunning example of the latest in engineering. It is constructed of stone and mud, the exterior of the building boasts four domes, which are supported on a central support, which has vents; additionally, it is home to its own minbar and mihrab with internal doors to improve the airflow — a unique feature in a mosque that is not found elsewhere! The mosque is located on the coastal highway between Khor Fakkan and Dibba Al Fujairah and its Portuguese building and the mosque are easily visible from the outside, making it easier to locate!
Architectural design
The Fujairah’s Al Bidya village mosque stands as one of the earliest Islamic constructions within the UAE and is designated as a UNESCO heritage site. It is renowned for its distinctive architectural style that has four domes that are of equal size joined by an internal column, which is supported with external supports.
The walls of the mosque have intricate, dentate-carved carvings that include holes that allow air and light to pass through as well as niches to place lighting lamps. The mosque’s visitors are allowed inside if they adhere to Islam and dress appropriately and dress appropriately, however exploration is permitted to be conducted outside the walls. Old watchtowers and stone walls from ancient buildings can be found in the mosque! Also, prayer services are offered daily upon permission, and guided tours available to those who are who are interested. The beauty of this structure makes it a monument of Islamic art and culture stunning!
History
Al Bidyah Mosque in Al Bidyah Fishing Village is thought to be to be one of the most ancient Mosques in the United Arab Emirates. It has an unusual layout with four domes that are not equal, supported on a central column as well as tiny windows that let air and light into the structure, along with dented wall carvings the mosque is open to Muslims as well as non-Muslims.
The mosque is thought to be of significant archaeological significance because of its distinctive and distinct form that is typical of Ottman architecture. Furthermore, it is an ancient Islamic buildings in the UAE and may be eligible as a candidate for UNESCO heritage listing.
While it’s not in the best state, the mosque is still used for every day prayers and is frequented by tourists and locals. Visitors are advised to wear headscarves. Furthermore the surrounding area is home to older watchtowers as well as remnants of structures as along with several markets.
Directions
Al Bidyah Mosque (Al Badiyah) is among some of the oldest mosques within the UAE and is among the top attractions to be seen when you are on Fujairah Tour Packages. Built of brick and mud in 1446, the impressive Islamic architectural style can be observed through four domes and one pillar in the interior. Inside there are intricate carvings in dentate and windows to allow to let in air and light.
The mosque is run by an imam who is happy to welcome everyone who comes in the event that they dress in a suitable manner. Women are required to wear a scarf to protect their hair, while men should remove their shoes prior to going in. In addition, there is a huge tomb that dates in Iron Age times which makes an experience truly enjoyable!
The mosque is easily located along the coastal highway and is located 14 km away from Khor Fakkan and 40 km from Fujairah city. It has several watchtowers from the past and remains of buildings in the area.
