Is Dubai Shia or Sunni?

By Michael Ferguson

Dubai is a city located in the United Arab Emirates and is known for its luxurious lifestyle, stunning skyscrapers, and vibrant culture. Over the years, Dubai has become a melting pot of different religions and beliefs, with a significant population of both Sunnis and Shiites. However, it is important to understand the differences between these two sects of Islam to truly answer the question – Is Dubai Shia or Sunni?

The Difference Between Shia and Sunni:
Islam is divided into two major branches – Shia and Sunni. The main difference between these two sects lies in their beliefs about the succession of leadership after Prophet Muhammad’s death. Sunnis believe that the first four caliphs were rightful leaders after Prophet Muhammad, while Shias believe that only Ali, Prophet Muhammad’s cousin and son-in-law, was the rightful heir.

Shias also have different religious practices than Sunnis. For instance, Shia Muslims practice self-flagellation during Muharram to mourn the death of Imam Hussain, Prophet Muhammad’s grandson who was killed in Karbala.

Dubai’s Religious Demographics:
Dubai is predominantly Muslim with over 80% of its population following Islam. However, it is difficult to accurately determine how many people are Sunni or Shia since there are no official statistics available. The UAE government follows a policy of religious tolerance which means that people from different religions and sects can coexist peacefully in Dubai.

Despite this policy though, there have been instances where individuals from different sects have clashed over religious beliefs. In 2013 for instance, there were reports of clashes between Sunni and Shiite Muslims on the streets of Dubai.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, it is difficult to answer whether Dubai is predominantly Shia or Sunni since there are no official statistics available on this matter. However, it is important to note that Dubai follows a policy of religious tolerance, which means that people from different religions and sects can coexist peacefully. It is essential to respect each other’s beliefs and practices to ensure a harmonious society.

References:

  • https://www.thenationalnews.com/uae/sunni-and-shia-muslims-coexist-peacefully-in-the-uae-1.644230
  • https://gulfnews.com/uae/explore-religious-tourism-in-dubai-1.68713252