Sumaya Dabbagh: A Contemporary Design For An Islamic Mosque

Sumaya Dabbagh’s project of the mosque named after the late Mohamed Abdulkhaliq Gargash is a true masterpiece that shows architectural design prowess while giving its visitors the perfect place to practice their faith. Be inspired by this cultural landmark in Dubai and know more about this contemporary mosque.

Dubai Interior Design: A Contemporary Design For Islamic Mosques سمية الدباغ

Architect Sumaya Dabbagh avoids traditional architectural typology, using light and materiality to craft a beacon of contemporary Islamic architecture and a cultural landmark in Dubai.

This architectural masterpiece is one of the first mosques in the Emirates designed by a female architect. The vision for its was to create a minimal calm and spiritual space for prayer, addressing the community of the Al Quoz, the industrial heart of Dubai. Dabbagh architects used natural light as a tool to heighten a feeling of spirituality, the connection between the earthly and divine, and to mark the worshipper’s journey through the building.

This contemporary mosque of worship allows the visitors to smoothly transition from the busy outer world and embrace an inner experience. The building is clad in a triangular pattern, which refers to traditional Islamic geometry but is reinterpreted in a modern language. As continuity, the structure is punctured by a series of strategically positioned same-shaped openings, bringing controlled natural light to the interior.

Avoiding multiple blocks, she sought to simplify the architectural vocabulary of the mosque, creating two distinct volumes: one from prayer and the other for ablution facilities, the residence for the Imam (the leader of the prayer) and Moazen (caller of prayer).

With a canopy that connects the two, Sumaya Dabbagh envisioned a courtyard, creating a moment of reflection and pause before one enters the prayer hall.

“Through design gestures, we created a series of spaces that allow the worshipper to transition from the busy outer world and prepare for an inner experience,” – Sumaya Dabaggh.

With a raft of culturally significant projects, Sumaya Dabbagh is no stranger to exploring contemporary interpretations of Islamic heritage. Her curved sandstone building for the Mleiha Archaeological Centre in the UAE is a shining example of her prowess. Yet, crafting a contemporary vision for a mosque is a rare ask, but accomplished perfectly by this Sumaya Dabbagh.