Introduction

Sharjah, the cultural capital of the UAE, is home to some of the most breathtaking mosques in the region. Each mosque tells a story of devotion, community, and architectural artistry. From Ottoman-inspired domes to simple coral-stone shrines on the east coast, the Historic Mosques in Sharjah are living monuments that connect past and present.

As of 2025, Sharjah’s commitment to preserving Islamic heritage has brought more attention to these mosques, not only as places of worship but also as cultural destinations open to global visitors. For travelers keen to experience authenticity beyond skyscrapers and malls, exploring the Historic Mosques in Sharjah offers an unmatched journey through time.

1. 🕌 Al Noor Mosque: Ottoman elegance on Buhaira Corniche

Perched along the Khalid Lagoon, Al Noor Mosque is a jewel among Historic Mosques in Sharjah. Inspired by Istanbul’s Ottoman-style Blue Mosque, it features graceful domes, arched windows, and twin minarets that dominate the Corniche skyline.

This mosque is particularly famous for welcoming non-Muslim visitors through guided tours organized by the Sharjah Centre for Cultural Communication. Guests are introduced to Islamic beliefs, Emirati traditions, and mosque etiquette. Its role as a bridge between cultures makes it an essential stop for heritage seekers.

Highlights:

• Intricate calligraphy and arabesque interiors.
• Evening illumination makes it one of the most photographed spots in Sharjah.
• Accessibility for tourists of all backgrounds.

Visitor Tip: Arrive just before sunset to capture the mosque glowing over Khalid Lagoon — one of the most iconic scenes linked to Historic Mosques in Sharjah.

2. 🕰️ Sharjah Mosque: The emirate’s grand statement

The Sharjah Mosque, inaugurated in 2019, is the largest in the emirate and a modern masterpiece included among Historic Mosques in Sharjah because of its cultural impact. Spread across 185,000 square meters, it accommodates over 25,000 worshippers.

Although new, it was designed in classical Ottoman-Islamic style, echoing centuries of mosque architecture. The mosque complex includes a cultural center, exhibition halls, and gardens that encourage both reflection and education. Visitors find themselves walking not only into a mosque but into a cultural landmark that represents Sharjah’s identity as a hub of tradition and innovation.

Highlights:

• Majestic domes and intricately carved archways.
• A library that introduces visitors to Islamic knowledge.
• Extensive courtyards for community gatherings.

Visitor Tip: Wear comfortable shoes as the mosque grounds are vast, and plan extra time for the exhibitions that give context to its architectural inspiration.

3. ✨ King Faisal Mosque: A 1980s landmark

King Faisal Mosque has been a landmark in Sharjah since its completion in the 1980s. For decades, it was the largest mosque in the emirate and continues to host thousands during Friday prayers. For many Emiratis, it is a nostalgic spiritual center, making it one of the best-known Historic Mosques in Sharjah.

Its cubic, modernist architecture may not resemble the domes and minarets of traditional mosques, but its scale and role in community life make it historically significant. Standing in the heart of Sharjah city, near the Central Souk, it is a cultural anchor that has witnessed the city’s transformation.

Highlights:

• One of the first mosques in the UAE was designed for large urban congregations.
• Central location near Sharjah’s souks, making it a convenient stop for heritage tours.

Visitor Tip: Visit in the morning when the mosque is quieter, then explore the nearby Blue Souk for a complete heritage experience.

4. 📜 Al Shoyoukh Mosque: Preserving 19th-century simplicity

Dating back to the 19th century, Al Shoyoukh Mosque represents the older generation of Historic Mosques in Sharjah. Unlike monumental mosques, this one reflects humility and community-centered life. Its coral-stone walls, wooden beams, and compact prayer hall are living reminders of pre-oil Sharjah.

The mosque is still active, serving local families who have maintained it for generations. This continuity between past and present makes Al Shoyoukh Mosque an authentic glimpse into Emirati religious life before modern construction methods.

Highlights:

• Original 19th-century architecture preserved through community care.
• A strong sense of intimacy, far from the grandeur of newer mosques.

Visitor Tip: Visitors should respect prayer times and avoid photography inside unless permission is granted by caretakers.

5. 🌊 Salem Al Mutawa Mosque in Khorfakkan: Coastal heritage

On Sharjah’s east coast lies Khorfakkan, a seaside town with its own historical treasures. The Salem Al Mutawa Mosque is particularly significant among Historic Mosques in Sharjah because of its coastal location and deep roots.

Believed to be centuries old, the mosque is a testament to how small fishing and trading communities sustained religious traditions even in remote areas. Its wooden ceilings, simple minaret, and weathered appearance reflect the resilience of Sharjah’s maritime past.

Highlights:

• Featured on older UAE banknotes, symbolizing its national importance.
• Located near scenic beaches, it makes it a perfect cultural stop during a coastal trip.

Visitor Tip: Plan a day trip to Khorfakkan and combine mosque visits with a picnic at Al Rafisah Dam or a hike in the surrounding mountains.

6. 🏛️ Najd Al Miqsar Mosque: Stone prayer hall with wadi views

The Najd Al Miqsar Mosque is nestled within a restored mountain village, offering visitors a chance to experience spirituality against the backdrop of dramatic Hajar mountain landscapes. It’s one of the most atmospheric Historic Mosques in Sharjah because of its integration with natural surroundings.

Its stone structure and simple rock-carved mihrab remind travelers of the modest worship spaces used by Emiratis centuries ago. Combined with heritage trails and restored watchtowers nearby, this mosque makes a rewarding stop for adventure and culture lovers alike.

Highlights:

• Built using traditional materials and techniques.
• Offers panoramic views of the wadi and surrounding hills.

Visitor Tip: Wear hiking shoes and bring water, as reaching the site involves walking through restored village pathways.

7. 🧭 Al Qasimia University Mosque: Where heritage meets academia

Located on the Muwailih campus, the Al Qasimia University Mosque is a blend of scholarship and worship. Its Fatimid-inspired design with high domes and elegant minarets earns it a place among modern Historic Mosques in Sharjah.

Though relatively new, the mosque reflects the emirate’s commitment to education and cultural dialogue. Visitors can witness how traditional Islamic architecture is reinterpreted in contemporary contexts.

Highlights:

• Fatimid-style domes and a spacious courtyard.
• Serves both students and the wider community, linking education with spirituality.

Visitor Tip: Check access restrictions since it is part of a university campus, but guided visits are sometimes allowed during public events.

8. 🕋 Al Dhaid Mosque: Central region’s spiritual hub

Al Dhaid Mosque, opened in 2023, is already considered an important part of Sharjah’s heritage network. Though modern, its striking glass dome, large capacity, and regional significance justify its inclusion among Historic Mosques in Sharjah.

It anchors the central region’s spiritual life and is surrounded by forts, souks, and cultural sites that make Al Dhaid an emerging tourist hub. This blend of tradition and modernity reflects Sharjah’s ongoing story.

Highlights:

• Unique use of glass in dome construction.
• Central gathering place for residents of the region.

Visitor Tip: Visit during the late afternoon for stunning light reflections through the glass dome.

Practical Tips for Exploring Historic Mosques in Sharjah

1. Dress Code: Modest attire is essential. Women should carry a scarf, while men should avoid shorts.
2. Best Times: Non-prayer hours, especially mornings and afternoons, are ideal for visits.
3. Photography: Always ask permission before photographing worshippers or interior spaces.
4. Guided Tours: Take advantage of official tours at Al Noor Mosque and Sharjah Mosque.
5. Cultural Respect: Remember, these are active places of worship, not just tourist attractions.

Conclusion

The Historic Mosques in Sharjah are a living showcase of faith, artistry, and heritage. Each mosque, whether centuries old or newly built with traditional influences, carries the legacy of Emirati devotion and Islamic architecture. By visiting the Historic Mosques in Sharjah, travelers gain more than beautiful photographs — they step into stories of communities that have prayed, gathered, and thrived around these landmarks.

From the Ottoman-inspired domes of Al Noor to the monumental Sharjah Mosque and the intimate prayer halls of Al Shoyoukh, the Historic Mosques in Sharjah reveal the emirate’s diversity in design and spirit. Even modern gems like Al Dhaid Mosque and Al Qasimia University Mosque prove how the tradition of building sacred spaces continues to evolve, ensuring that future generations will add new chapters to the list of Historic Mosques in Sharjah.

For culture seekers, faith travelers, or architecture enthusiasts, exploring the Historic Mosques in Sharjah offers an authentic journey into the heart of the UAE’s cultural capital. These mosques are not just structures — they are guardians of history, welcoming every visitor with a sense of peace and timelessness.

External Links for Visitors

• Sharjah Museums Authority
• Visit Sharjah Official Tourism Site
• Sharjah Mosque Information
• Al Noor Mosque Tours
• Khorfakkan Heritage & Tourism

Also Read: Eco-Tourism in Sharjah 2025 — Mangroves, Mountains & Sustainable Stays