Mohammed Abdulkhaliq Gargash Mosque — the first mosque in Dubai designed by a woman. This unique architectural masterpiece features a pristine lace-like façade and a modern reinterpretation of Islamic geometry. Here’s how it came to be in Dubai and what makes it special.

Text by: Alina Teva
Photos by: Gerry O’Leary for Dabbagh Architects

Sumaya Dabbagh, a Saudi architect educated in the UK, founded her studio, Dabbagh Architects, in 2008, significantly contributing to the region’s architectural evolution. In 2020, Sumaya received the prestigious Architecture Master Prize for her outstanding design achievements. The Gargash Mosque has been globally recognized as a significant example of modern architectural innovation in the UAE.

The Gargash Mosque is a serene oasis amid a world of luxury and entertainment. It was created under the guidance of one of the few female architects in the region with her own studio — Sumaya Dabbagh. The mosque was commissioned by the wealthy Gargash family to honor the late philanthropist Mohammed Abdulkhaliq Gargash, who passed away in 2016. Opened in the summer of 2021, it is situated in the quiet industrial district of Al Quoz, south of Dubai.

A central feature of the mosque, which has become a benchmark for contemporary architecture, is Sumaya’s metaphorical concept. Verses from the Quran and triangular patterns (a symbol of protection in Islam, known as the “tumar” triangle) are intricately carved into the exterior panels. Some of these designs are cut through, allowing streams of geometric light to fill the prayer halls, creating a play of natural light. This design element symbolizes divine protection and reflects the spirituality of this sacred space. Entering the mosque, visitors are immersed in an atmosphere of peace and tranquility.