Dubai being a Muslim country is renowned for its vibrant and diverse cultures, which make it a special place to live and work for people from all backgrounds. Under one roof, you can find people from various cultures and traditions coexisting peacefully. A large portion of migrant workers from India and Sri Lanka in the UAE practice Hinduism. There are a few Hindu temples and places of worship in and around Bur Dubai because a substantial part of the population in Dubai is made up of Hindu expats. In Bur Dubai Old Souk, the first Hindu temple in Dubai was built above the shops. Even today, the same Hindu temple still stands tall and welcomes visitors from all over the city with open arms.
A New Chapter: The Hindu Temple in Jebel Ali
A new Hindu temple will soon be opening in Dubai’s Jebel Ali in October 2022 on the occasion of Dussehra, a major Hindu festival. The temple is a blend of Indian and Arabic architecture and is home to 16 deities, the main deity being lord Shiva along with lord Krishna, Ganesha, Mahalakshmi, Guruvayoorappan, Ayyappan, and others as well as a knowledge room, community center, and welcoming space for people of all faiths. The temple symbolizes Dubai’s respect and spirit of religious tolerance.
When will the temple be open to the public?
Mark your calendars, In October 2022, coinciding with the festival of Dussehra, Dubai officially opened its first purpose-built Hindu temple in the heart of Jebel Ali’s “Worship Village” — an area already known for housing churches, gurdwaras, and mosques side by side.
This architectural marvel is more than just a place of worship — it’s a symbol of interfaith harmony and cultural unity. With its graceful design and spiritual offerings, the temple warmly welcomes people of all faiths to visit, learn, and reflect.
Infrastructure of the Temple
The temple is a fusion of Indian and Arabic architectural styles, showcasing Dubai’s global character. Here are some highlights:
- 16 beautifully carved podiums, each dedicated to a different deity from across India, including Lord Shiva, Krishna, Ganesha, Mahalakshmi, Guruvayoorappan, and Ayyappan.
- A knowledge room and a community center open to interfaith learning and cultural programs.
- A dedicated space for the Guru Granth Sahib, reflecting the inclusive spirit of the temple.
- Ritual zones for Tulsi (holy basil) plants, mundan (head shaving) ceremonies, and other traditional practices.
Booking Your Visit
To manage crowds and ensure safety, the temple introduced a QR code-based appointment system:
- Book your visit via the official Hindu Temple Dubai website.
- Entry is free, but appointments are required for timed slots.
- After October 2022, visitors can walk in during opening hours, though booking ahead is still recommended for weekends and holidays.
Tip: Use public transport or carpool when visiting, as the temple is a popular destination and parking may be limited.
Opening & Visiting Hours
Official Opening Date: October 5, 2022 (Dussehra)
Temple Hours: 6:30 AM – 8:00 PM daily
Vedic Chanting Times:
- Morning: 7:30 AM – 11:00 AM
- Evening: 3:30 PM – 8:30 PM
These sessions are open to both devotees and visitors.
