What is the ruling on building domes in modern homes and villas as a decoration?
Scholars have differed on the ruling regarding excessive height and ornamentation in construction. Some forbid it, some permit it, and some deem it disliked. The latter opinion is the closest, as it aligns with the evidence of those who permit it and does not contradict the evidence of those who forbid it. The Qur'an condemns extravagance and criticizes people for erecting tall buildings without need. Allah Almighty says: "Do you build on every elevation a sign, amusing yourselves? And do you take for yourselves palaces, that you might abide forever?" [Qur’an 26:128-129]. Similarly, it is mentioned in the Sunnah that what is built without need is a burden upon its owner. The proof for this is the noble Hadith in Sunan Abi Dawud from Anas ibn Malik: "The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) went out and saw a prominent dome. He asked, 'What is this?' His Companions told him, 'This belongs to so-and-so,' - a man from the Ansar. The Prophet remained silent, keeping it to himself. When its owner came to greet the Messenger of Allah among the people, the Prophet turned away from him. He did this several times until the man recognized the anger and aversion in him. He complained about this to his Companions, saying, 'By Allah, I indeed find the Messenger of Allah averse to me.' They said, 'He went out and saw your dome.' So, the man returned to his dome and demolished it until he leveled it to the ground. One day, the Messenger of Allah went out and did not see it. He asked, 'What happened to the dome?' They said, 'Its owner complained to us about your aversion to him, so we informed him, and he demolished it.' The Prophet then said, 'Indeed, every building is a burden upon its owner, except what is necessary, except what is necessary,' meaning, what is indispensable." These evidences indicate the dislike of expanding in construction without need, and a Muslim should avoid extravagance in this regard.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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