Dubai Mandir is open to people of all faiths, and the temple stands as a metaphor for acceptance and cross-cultural harmony. This temple is not only the first Hindu temple in the Middle East but is also constructed with exquisite traditional Indian architectural styles, making it a standout monument in the region. With intricate carvings and vibrant designs, it captures the essence of Indian cultural heritage. Inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 14, 2024, this majestic edifice opened its doors to the public just days later, on February 18, 2024, inviting visitors from around the world to experience its beauty and serenity.
History Of Dubai Mandir
While there have been many Hindu places in UAE, it is the first BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi built using the same techniques constructed in India’s most historic temples using interlocking blocks of stone. It was built by BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha. But the history of Dubai Mandir dates back to 05th April 1997, when Pramukh Swami Maharaj prayed amid the deserts of Sharjah, hoping a temple would be built in the coming years symbolising inter-faith and harmony.
Mahant Swami Maharaj fulfilled this dream after 27 years by inaugurating the divine vision of harmony in the heart of the United Arab Emirates. On 14th February 2024, the auspicious pran-prathistha ceremony occurred, during which Vedic chants were chanted. The historic moment culminated when Maharaj conducted the final puja in each of the seven shrines.
Also Read: Dubai Travel Tips
Architecture And Designs
Talking about the beauty of the Hindu mandir in Dubai, the temple’s blush pink colour is from Jaipur’s pink sandstone, while the white is from Italian marble. Dubai Swaminarayan Mandir stands 108 feet tall, 262 feet long, and 180 feet wide, and over 200 volunteers from different countries and religions have dedicated over 69,000+ hours to its construction.
A beautiful blend of Indian and Arab culture, the temple cost about 16 million dollars to construct. It can accommodate over 1,000 worshippers at a time. Many of the cravings and intricate designs were made by the workers in India and later transported to Dubai to be assembled.
The Somnath Temple of Gujarat has inspired the interior of the front arches, and the central dome is similar to the Hindu north Indian temple. Labelled as one of the largest constructions, it was completed in three years.
Seven Spries Reflects Union Between Seven Emirates
The seven shrines of Dubai mandir reflect the union between the seven emirates of the UAE. Temple in Dubai houses more than 16 idols of gods and goddesses, and each shrine houses a revered deity across India:
- Shri Akshar-Purushottam Bhagwan
- Shri Radha-Krishna Bhagwan
- Shri Sita-Rama Bhagwan & Parivar
- Shri Parvati-Shankar Bhagwan
- Shri Jagannath Bhagwan & Parivar
- Shri Padmavati-Shrinivas Bhagwan
- Shri Ayyappa Swami
Mandir’s all-inclusive ethos is thus a pan-Indian representation of diverse forms of spirituality. Apart from the Hindu gods, Guru Granth Sahib is present. This temple is not just a place of worship but a pillar of strong relations between India and the UAE. It is a masterpiece constructed with a mixture of tradition and advanced technologies. Reflecting on spiritual harmony, the UAE’s first Hindu Stone Temple is the biggest in South Asia.
Related Post: First Ever Hindu Temple In Abu Dhabi
Technological Advancement
Image Credit: Sathiyaraj for Wikimedia Commons
First, of its kind, the Swaminarayan mandir in Dubai has used a good mix of architectural and scientific techniques. Technological advancement: the temple embedded over 300+ high-tech sensors to measure temperature and monitor seismic activity. It will imitate the nature of construction for decades to come. The sensors will provide live data for research. If there is an earthquake in the region, the temple will detect it, and we can study it.
Within The Dubai Mandir Premises
One of the best temples in Dubai, it houses over 500 trees, scrubs and fossil oaks that are estimated to be over 7500 years old have been planted. Eccentric architecture and timeless nature provide a unique experience for the visitors. To enhance the experience, two holy water flows from Ganga and Yamuna were brought from India in huge containers that flow from east to west boundaries. The idea of this was to resemble the ghats of Varanasi, where the devotees could immerse themselves in meditation and get mentally transported to ghats in India. Along with this, there is a beam of light that represents the Saraswati river, which is directed from the temple to form ‘Triveni Sangam.’
Related Post: The Dubai Fountain
Dubai Mandir Location & Entry Fees
BAPS Hindu Mandir is located in Abu Mureikhah, Abu Dhabi, near Al Rahba, off the Abu Dhabi-Abu Dhabi Sheikh Zayed Highways. Devotees can take a 40-minute drive from Jebel Ali and a 30-minute drive from the mainland. There is no fee for entry; however, visitors need to register on the official website before planning their visit to Dubai Mandir.
Dubai Mandir Opening Hours, Timings & Best Time To Visit
Dubai Mandir’s opening hours are Tuesday through Sunday from 9 AM to 8 PM and the temple is closed on Mondays. Visitors are asked to dress respectfully and cover the area of the body between the neck, the elbow, and the ankles. The mandir conducts routine security checks on arrival.
The best time to visit BAPS Hindu Mandir is to visit early to avoid the crowds and the intense sun of the later part of the day. For the most up-to-date information on timings and special events, visit the official BAPS Hindu Mandir website.
Related Post: Dubai To Salalah Road Trip
How To Reach BAPS Dubai Mandir?
By Car/Taxi
Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi is located on the P6 Al Taf Road (E16) in the new cultural district near Al Rahba. The temple is 61 kilometres from Abu Dhabi and is accessible from the Dubai–Abu Dhabi – Ghuweifat Highway E11 at exit 366.
By Bus
A bus service also runs between Al Nayhan Bus Station in Abu Dhabi City and the BAPS Hindu Mandir.
You May Also Like To Read: Hidden Gems In Dubai
In the heart of the United Arab Emirates, the Dubai Mandir stands as a remarkable symbol of Indian culture and the beauty of cross-cultural harmony. This magnificent temple, which is the first of its kind in the region, is not only a place of worship but also a vibrant hub for cultural exchange. So immerse yourself in inner peace and visit the first one-of-a-kind temple on your next trip to Dubai.
For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here.
Cover Image Source : Shutterstock
Frequently Asked Questions About Dubai Mandir
Which is the largest Hindu temple in the UAE?
BAPS Hindu Mandir is a traditional, first-of-a-kind stone Hindu temple built by the Swaminarayan Sanstha. It is the largest temple in the UAE. It took over three years to build and combines scientific and traditional construction.
Which God is in the Dubai Mandir?
The main deity in the Hindu Temple in Dubai is Lord Shiva. The temple also features idols of other Hindu gods, including Krishna, Ganesh, and Mahalakshmi. As a sign of religious inclusivity, the temple houses the Sri Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of the Sikhs.
What are Dubai Mandir Timings?
Dubai Mandir's opening hours are Tuesday through Sunday from 9 AM to 8 PM. The temple is closed on Mondays.
What does BAPs stand for in BAPs Hindu Mandir?
BAPs means ‘Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha.’ It is a Hindu faith with roots in the Vedas. It is a socio-spiritual denomination within the Swaminarayan Sampradaya.
What is the best time to visit Dubai?
The best time to visit Dubai depends on your preferences. However, November to March offers pleasant weather, minimal rainfall, and outdoor activities. It is also the peak season. If you want to attend the Dubai Shopping Festival in January and February, it offers excellent electronics, gold, and more deals. Spring season is good weather and more affordable than peak season.
People Also Read:
Navshya Ganpati Temple Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple Kanniga Parameswari Temple
Experience the world through captivating stories of adventure and travel. As a senior content writer, I bring my passion for exploration to life, crafting tales that take you on a journey. With my words, you’ll feel the thrill of discovery and the joy of experiencing new cultures. Let me turn your imagination into a reality with stories that inspire you to explore and embrace the world.
