Dubai: The Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) in Dubai has introduced the 'Manaber' initiative, aiming to simplify the process for donors who wish to support mosque construction and sponsorship. This initiative aligns with Dubai's commitment to innovative governance and the objectives set forth in the Dubai Plan 2033.
According to Emirates News Agency, Manaber seeks to streamline the mosque construction and sponsorship process by integrating donors, government bodies, consultancy offices, and charities into a single framework. This ensures clear procedures and efficient execution from the initial donation to project completion. Developed by the Mosque Construction Services Improvement Team under the 'City Makers (Bunat Al Madinah)' initiative, Manaber is supported by six strategic partners, including IACAD, Dubai Municipality, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, Roads and Transport Authority, Dubai Development Authority, and the Security Industry Regulatory Agency (SIRA). This collaboration creates an efficient ecosystem that accelerates mosque projects across the emirate, including free zones.
Donors using the Manaber platform can opt to build new mosques, contribute to ongoing projects, or sponsor existing ones. The platform provides users with the ability to view and select mosque plots, access updated information, and track their contributions throughout the process, minimizing the need for direct staff interaction.
Enhancing community participation, 'Manaber for Design' invites consultancy offices and university students to submit innovative mosque designs. Approved designs are made available for donor selection, allowing donors to choose both land and design, thereby expediting procedures and accelerating construction.
The initiative also allows for mosque construction supervision by charitable organizations, in coordination with relevant charities. Manaber includes a comprehensive guide for donors and consultancy offices, detailing all necessary information for completing services, and outlining approved standards and requirements for mosque construction in Dubai. This ensures unified design specifications and improved architectural harmony across mosques in the emirate.
Ahmed Darwish Al Muhairi, Director-General of IACAD in Dubai, stated that Manaber translates leadership's vision into faster, more transparent, and higher-quality services, strengthening community engagement and enabling donors to actively participate in mosque development through a modern experience.
Engineer Ali Al Halyan Al Suwaidi, Leader of the Mosque Construction Services Team under City Makers, highlighted that Manaber addresses the emirate's growing needs in the sector. He reported that 24 mosques were completed in 2024 at a cost of AED172 million, with ongoing work on 56 mosques valued at AED465 million. Additionally, more than 350 land plots have been allocated within Dubai's urban master plan.
Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, emphasized that Manaber exemplifies government integration and digital innovation, delivering efficient services while upholding the UAE's traditions of generosity and charitable work.
Source: Emirates News Agency