Al Bidyah Mosque

The mosque at Al Bidyah is small enough to stand inside in a few paces and is generally dated to about 1446, which makes it the oldest known mosque in the country. It is built of mudbrick and stone rendered in white gypsum, with four shallow domes carried on a single central pillar, the whole thing set on a terrace with watchtowers on the ridge above. It is still in use for prayer, and visitors can enter outside prayer times if suitably dressed.

What you actually see

• The four domes - shallow domes carried on one central pillar.
• The dating - built about 1446, the earliest known mosque in the country.
• The watchtowers - defensive towers on the ridge above the mosque.
• The mudbrick construction - stone and mudbrick under white gypsum render.

When to go

October to April; the site is exposed with little shade. Visits should avoid the five prayer times. Fridays around midday are not suitable for visiting.

Honest expectations

It is a working mosque and closed to visitors during prayers. Dress rules are enforced and shoulders, knees and hair must be covered. The building is tiny and the visit is brief.

Nearby

Al Aqah Beach is north, and Fujairah city is south.