Al Nasr Mosque Inaugurated in Sharjah: A Glass-Domed Architectural Marvel for Ramadan 2026
In a city celebrated for its towering skyscrapers and modern landmarks, a breathtaking architectural triumph has emerged in the historic heart of Oud Metha. The Al Nasr Mosque, also known as the Great Mosque of Al Nasr, stands as a unique masterpiece in the United Arab Emirates' evolving landscape. While traditional mosques often feature solid stone domes, Al Nasr Mosque breaks the mold with a design that appears to reach directly for the heavens, offering both spiritual and aesthetic beauty to the community.
Grand Opening for Ramadan 2026
Timed perfectly for the commencement of Ramadan 2026, Sharjah has inaugurated this striking new place of prayer, designed to accommodate over 1,300 worshippers. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, the Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, officially opened the mosque on the evening of the moon-sighting announcement that confirmed Ramadan's arrival. Located in the Jabal Omar neighbourhood of Al Dhaid, the mosque spans more than 7,800 square metres, providing ample space for prayer, reflection, and social interaction for residents of Sharjah and surrounding areas.
Revolutionary Glass Dome Architecture
The architectural centerpiece of Al Nasr Mosque is its large spherical glass dome, measuring 20 metres in diameter and 16 metres in height. This innovative structure covers nearly 80% of the mosque's roof, constructed from honeycomb-patterned hexagonal glass panels that reflect and diffuse light throughout the day. At sunset, golden light streams through the dome into the prayer hall, creating a glowing, spiritually uplifting ambience that enhances the worship experience.
Adjacent to the dome rises a 38-metre-tall minaret with gently flowing lines, offering a modern reinterpretation of classical mosque silhouettes. This design harmonises beautifully with the round dome, moving beyond rigid traditional forms to create a cohesive and contemporary architectural statement.
Welcoming Worshippers with Modern Amenities
The mosque's layout has been meticulously designed to foster comfort and community among worshippers. The main prayer hall provides an intimate setting for 470 individuals, while the expansive external courtyard and outdoor prayer zones can accommodate an additional 1,180 male worshippers, ensuring large congregations can pray together during peak times such as Ramadan. A dedicated women's prayer hall offers a private and serene space for 145 worshippers, bringing the total capacity to over 1,300 people.
Beyond its primary function as a place of worship, Al Nasr Mosque serves as a comprehensive community hub. It is equipped with modern ablution areas, restrooms, and a water station for convenience. The complex includes an imam's residence for spiritual guidance and staff accommodation, along with practical facilities such as a mortuary and ample parking. Inside, the architecture emphasises openness and serenity, with the hall bathed in natural light and featuring a modern mimbar (pulpit) with soft built-in lighting that enhances the spiritual atmosphere without overwhelming worshippers.
A New Landmark for Ramadan and Beyond
The inauguration of Al Nasr Mosque is part of a broader nationwide initiative to enhance mosque facilities and support growing congregations across the UAE. In Sharjah, this effort has driven the construction and renovation of dozens of mosques, ensuring every community has access to modern, well-equipped places of worship. Across the Emirates, mosques are expanding their roles beyond prayer by launching creative Ramadan programs for families and children to encourage community engagement. These initiatives are supported by practical measures, such as providing free parking for worshippers in busy areas, reflecting the UAE's commitment to making the spiritual journey of Ramadan as accessible and rewarding as possible for all residents and visitors.
