The Omar Ali bin Haider mosque may not be on the tourist trail, but it is close to the hearts of residents who for a long time have called Dubai home.
Built in 1952, the mosque has been welcoming worshippers since the seven emirates were known as the Trucial States. It is one of the oldest structures in the country and is in Deira, near another Dubai landmark, Al Ghurair Centre. The house of worship is known for its striking architecture, with one blue-tiled minaret adjacent to a graceful dome that welcomes worshippers within its 465-square metre prayer hall. Inside, there are Quranic verses inscribed on the walls, with an enormous chandelier hanging in the middle. It is a peaceful place of worship in old Dubai where the endless sounds of the city outside seem very far away.
