Guru Nanak Darbar

Guru Nanak Darbar in Jebel Ali is Dubai’s landmark gurdwara and is identified by its own institutional history as the first official Sikh gurdwara in the Gulf region. The campaign for a permanent Sikh place of worship began in 2000. The official account records that Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum granted land without charge, foundations were laid with Sikh ceremonies in June 2010, construction was completed in December 2011, and the gurdwara opened on 17 January 2012.

The multi-storey complex covers about 100,000 square feet and combines modern construction with design references studied from historic gurdwaras, including Sri Harmandir Sahib. Religious life centres on the Guru Granth Sahib, with daily Prakash, Hukamnama, Ardas, kirtan and evening Sukh Asan described by the gurdwara’s official material.

Langar and seva are central parts of its communal function. Visitors of all backgrounds are welcomed, but Sikh decorum applies: both men and women cover their heads and shoes are removed, with headscarves and shoe-storage facilities provided. The gurdwara’s current contact page lists opening hours of 04:30–20:30 daily and states that no accommodation is available. It remains both an active sacred space and a major symbol of Sikh community life in the UAE.