Dubai's veteran imams and muezzins granted golden visas

Preachers who have worked for 20 years or more are entitled to long-term residency

A muezzin at Masjid Al Rahim mosque in Dubai Marina performs prayers during Ramadan. Jaime Puebla / The National

Dubai has announced it will be issuing golden visas and giving financial rewards to imams, preachers, and muezzins who have served in the emirate for more than 20 years.

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai, issued the order under directives from Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai.

The order was made in appreciation of their efforts to share the teachings of Islam and spread its values of tolerance, especially during Ramadan.

The Crown Prince said the significant role played by Dubai's imams, preachers and muezzins is recognised.

He urged them to continue to spread the true message and values of Islam.

There are 2,178 mosques across Dubai, figures compiled by the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department show, which is an increase from 2,098 in 2018.

Workers at mosques that are under the department include more than 475 imams, 404 muezzins and 41 preachers.

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