Enveloped in breathtaking architectural beauty, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the largest mosques in the world. Named after the UAE founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the mosque serves as a cultural icon of Islamic art. Renowned for its intricate Islamic architecture, it seamlessly blends the various elements of Islamic civilisation. Its construction was a global effort where around 1300 Iranian artisans handcrafted the world’s largest prayer hall. As you reverse into its marbled corridors, you will encounter various treasured resources like gold-plated Swarovski chandeliers, vast marble mosaic art, and reflective pools mirroring amethyst-and-jasper-embedded columns. And outside, witness the minarets proudly reaching towards the heavens at an impressive 106 m.
Apart from its stunning architecture, the grand mosque is a welcoming place for all visitors to experience its spiritual aura. Visiting the landmark will be an unforgettable experience ranking among the most memorable things to do in Abu Dhabi. Further moving on into the blog, more interesting facts and figures will be unveiled in this lifetime masterpiece.
History of Sheikh Zayed Mosque
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is the largest in the world and stands as the iconic symbol of UAE’s scenic and cultural richness. Under the vision of founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the construction of the mosque began in 1996 and took over a decade to complete. It is estimated that the mosque was a collaborative effort of various skilled from various parts of the world, including Italy and Morocco, who brought the gigantic Zayed into reality. They wanted the mosque to symbolize the Islamic message of peace and harmony among different cultures and showcase these values in the modern realm of life.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque – Architectural Marvel
The breathtaking infrastructure of the mosque is a blend of various Islamic styles that illustrate elements of Islamic historical periods, showcasing the fusion of traditional and contemporary design. The mosque was designed by a Syrian architect collaborating with British, Italian, and Emirati architects. The most prominent focus of the mosque is that it features numerous domes, minarets, and intricate details.
There are 82 domes, the largest of which is located in the centre of the main prayer hall. Inside the enormous hall, lies the world’s largest hand-knit carpet adorned with intricate designs. Surrounding the mosque, there are four minarets, encompassing the mosque’s office, library, and centre for cultural activities and programs. The courtyard is paved with white marble tiles painted with convoluted floral designs, and outside the mosque lies the tomb of the late Sheikh Zayed is outside the mosque.
Additionally, inside the main hall, 96 pillars crafted of mother of pearl stand tall, while magnificent crystal chandeliers also hang from the ceilings. The mosque also features two smaller halls that accommodate 10,000 women to pray comfortably. The main highlight is the Qibla wall, which faces Mecca and showcases the 99 names of Allah in an elegant Kufic script. Notably of its brilliant architectural elegance, the mosque received the prestigious Middle East Lighting Design Award in 2008 for its exceptional lighting design.
Best Time for Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Visit
Abu Dhabi generally has a hot climate, but the best time to visit is during the winter, between October and February. During this period, the temperatures drop to around 20 degrees Celsius, offering a milder climate with comfortable sunshine.
For the best visit, typically the tour commences in the morning at 11:00 AM, and it is better to arrive around 5:30 in the evening, where you can lavishly walk around the mosque without being affected by blistering heat burning your feet. Staying a bit longer until sunset will allow you to witness the stunning sight of the illuminated mosque under the night sky. To gain a different zone experience, it is possible to visit the mosque during both day and night. This way, you get to appreciate its beauty in different lights!
Things to do in Sheikh Zayed Mosque
For a better understanding of the mosques, you can enrol a tour guide. Given its gigantic size and rich historical significance it is quite impossible to explore without a tour guide. Three tour services are offered from Saturday to Thursday, from 9 a.m. onwards . And on Friday, the tour will start at 5:00 AM.
For your convenience, call your tour guide at any time from morning to evening. Therefore, you can explore the mosque more informatively while enjoying its stunning visuals.
How to meet your guide
When you arrive at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, head to the North Parking (Tourism) area near Security Gate #4. Look for your guide wearing a blue OceanAir Travels T-shirt outside the gate. It’s a good idea to be there at least 10 minutes before your chosen time. Show your tickets on your smartphone to start the tour.
How to reach the mosque
The mosque is approximately 19 kilometres from the Abu Dhabi airport. If you are travelling with your family and friends, you can take a taxi directly from the airport, which typically costs between AED 90 and AED 120. Bus services are also available, but they won’t go directly to the grand mosque. So you have to take a bus to Zayed Sports City and then get a taxi from there, around 3.1 km to the Grand Mosque.
Key Guidelines and Tips
- Entrance to the Grand mosque is free of charge.
- You’re supposed to enter the mosque barefoot as a sign of respect for the culture of Islam.
- Don’t forget to take your sunglasses and water to protect yourself from the sun and stay hydrated.
- Bringing food items and drinks to the mosque is strictly prohibited.
- Things like cosmetics, cigarettes, lighters, extra batteries, high-zoom tools, telescopes, alcoholic drinks, and chewing gum are also not allowed in the mosque.
Dress Code & Essential Info for Your Visit
- Women must wear long and loose clothing to ensure that their arms and legs are fully covered.
- Men should cover their shoulders and should not reveal any skin above their knees or display tattoos.
- Hijabs and Abayas are available at the mosque free of cost.
- Failure to do so will result in denial of entry.
- There are plenty of free parking spaces near the mosque.
- For drinks and snacks and coffee, you can find Coffee Club Café for refreshments and free drinking water coolers.
- Washrooms available for men and women outside the mosque.
Farewell to the Islamic Heritage’s Masterpiece
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a mesmerising testament to Islamic art and culture, drawing visitors worldwide with its architectural splendour. With its intricate design, cultural significance, and open-door policy, it offers an immersive experience for all. From the opulent halls adorned with stunning features to the breathtaking illumination under the night sky, every moment spent here is a journey through beauty and spirituality. For a smooth visit, adhering to the dress code guidelines, utilising the tour guides, and embracing tranquillity will truly elevate the experience. Beyond being a tourist attraction, the majestic landmark will offer you a passage to the heritage and grace of the UAE.
FAQs of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
When was the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque built?
The construction of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque began in 1996 and was completed in 2007.
What are the attractions on the inside?
The mosque features the world’s largest hand-knitted carpet. 82 domes with the largest prayer hall, 96 pillars adorned with mother of pearls, and a Qibla wall inscribed with 99 names of Allah.
Is the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque open to all visitors of all religions?
Yes, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is open to all visitors of all religions and walks of life to admire the incredible beauty and experience the spiritual ambience.
What are the dress codes for visiting the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque?
Visitors must wear modest clothes. Women should wear loose and long clothes covering their heads, while men should wear clothes covering their shoulders and knees.
What is the best time to visit Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque?
It is better to choose a time in the late afternoon so that the visitors can also enjoy the illuminated mosque under the evening sun.
