The Al Warqa Mosque in Dubai represents a harmonious blend of traditional Islamic architecture and modern design. Opened in 2015 and created by Waiwai Architecture Studio, this cubic mosque is located near the City Centre of Mirdif and stands out with its open layout, there's no boundary wall, symbolizing accessibility and community.

Wael Al Awar, principal architect at Waiwai, emphasizes the mosque’s role as a community center. “Openness was crucial,” he explains. “It's not just a prayer space, but also a place for relaxation and reflection.” Lined with palm trees, the mosque invites all to enjoy its surroundings.

Thoughtful Design Elements

Constructed from Saudi sandstone, the mosque’s color palette mirrors the desert landscape. The striking white interior is illuminated naturally through a skylight, minimizing the need for artificial lighting. “We aimed for a homogeneous light to create a welcoming atmosphere,” Al Awar notes.

Symbolism in Design

The interior features a unique five-sided floral pattern, symbolizing the five daily prayers and echoing the sun's movement. This design avoids traditional arabesques, focusing instead on a contemporary style that feels fresh and inviting. The minaret, with its modern cylindrical shape, contrasts beautifully with the mosque’s sandstone structure.

Al Awar concludes, “Our goal was to rethink tradition in a contemporary way.” Al Warqa Mosque successfully combines simplicity with elegance, creating an inviting space that fosters community and spirituality.

Read More: UAE Launches its First Residential Orchestra in Dubai