Sheikh Zayed Mosque

About Sheikh Zayed Mosque Abu Dhabi

Spread across an expanse of over 30 acres, the Sheikh Zayed Mosque Abu Dhabi is the largest mosque in the United Arab Emirates, in addition to being one of the largest in the whole world. Built between 1996 and 2007, the mosque is named after the first president of the UAE, and is often regarded as the White Pearl of the Gulf. Boasting of an extraordinary design and architecture, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Abu Dhabi is home to beautiful clear pools, stunning onion-top domes, as well as the world’s largest carpet, among other features.

With a capacity to hold more than 40,000 devotees at a single time, this mosque is one of the most visited places not just in the UAE, but also in the world. It has a design that takes inspiration from different regions of the globe, along with Mughal, Persian and Alexandrian mosques. Embedded with Swarovski crystal chandeliers, jewel-studded columns and made entirely of exquisite white marble, the Sheikh Zayed Mosque Abu Dhabi is surely a sight to behold.

Buy Sheikh Zayed Mosque Tour Online

The best way to enjoy a tour of this architectural wonder is to book your Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque tickets online. In addition to letting you skip the long waiting queues at the tour booking counters in the heat, pre-booking your Sheikh Zayed Mosque tickets also lets you enjoy the tour at your own pace and comfort, without having to rush amidst the crowds. Furthermore, if you pre-book your Sheikh Zayed Mosque tickets, you can also save some money through great deals and discounts, which are almost always available online. Additionally, you can also enjoy combo deals with your tour of the Sheikh Zayed Mosque.

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Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Guided Tour

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Highlights of Sheikh Zayed Mosque Abu Dhabi

  • Enjoy a visit to the Sheikh Zayed Mosque Abu Dhabi, the largest mosque in the UAE, and one of the largest in the world
  • Marvel at the stunning structure here, which is home to amethyst and jasper-studded columns, white marble domes, reflective pools, gold-plated Swarovski chandeliers and more
  • Admire the impressive courtyard of the mosque, which features one of the largest marble mosaic artworks in the whole world
  • Don’t forget to catch sights of the intricate calligraphy designs and letters made inside the domes, which have verses from the Quran and are painted with gold leaf
  • Pay a visit to the mosque at night, and enjoy panoramic views of the reflective pools here, which glow under the moonlight and are a sight for sore eyes.

Architecture of Sheikh Zayed Mosque Abu Dhabi

AboutAn architectural masterpiece, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Abu Dhabi beautifully combines Islamic design with architecture. The design of the mosque includes a variety of aspects, which were inspired by mosques from Turkey, Pakistan, Egypt, Morocco and a plethora of other Islamic countries. The 82 domes of the mosque are made of pure white marble, and decked with gold mosaic designs, while the 96 pillars inside the main prayer hall are made of the mother of pearl. The entire courtyard of the mosque has white marble tiles with stunning floral designs.

Domes

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque has a total of 82 domes, which are some of the most beautiful features of the mosque. There are seven different sizes of the domes, all of which are onion-top, and take inspiration from Pakistan’s Badshahi Mosque. These domes are made of pure white marble, and are enhanced by a crown-like design with gold mosaic detailing. The inner side of the domes are also etched with verses from the Quran and painted with gold leaves.

Marble

The entire mosque has a pure white colour, which is amongst its most distinguishing features, and sets it apart from other iconic landmarks in Abu Dhabi. This is due to the fact that the mosque is made entirely out of white marble, both internally and externally.

Qibla Wall

The Qibla Wall is one of the main attractions of the Sheikh Zayed Mosque. Also known as The Wall of Allah, the Qibla Wall faces Mecca inside the mosque, and is engraved with 99 names of Allah, in the Kufic script. The calligraphic work is also illuminated with fibre optic lighting from the back, which highlights the names, while the semi-circular niche is decorated with 24-carat gold stripes.

Lunar Illustrations

The mosque has a unique lighting system, which is designed in a way such that it reflects the different phases of the moon. There are 22 light towers inside the mosque, which consist of different light projectors that offer these lunar illustrations onto the white marble exteriors of the mosque, including on the domes and the mosque facade.

Carpets

The main prayer hall of the Sheikh Zayed Mosque is home to the largest hand-knotted Persian carpet in the whole world, which measures 5,700 square metres and weighs 35 tonnes. Designed by Dr. Ali Khaliqi of Iran, the carpet has an intricate Islamic medallion design, which was hand-crafted by around 1,200 artisans and was made of wool from New Zealand.

Pulpit

Also known as the Menbar, the Pulpit is located on the right side of the mosque. The Pulpit has floral as well as shell designs, all of which are made of carved cedar wood and then decorated with white gold, glass mosaic and the mother of pearl.

Chandeliers

You can find 7 stunning chandeliers inside the Mosque, the largest and grandest of which is located inside the main prayer hall. This chandelier is also one of the largest chandeliers in the whole world, and is made of brass and stainless steel. Additionally, this chandelier is also covered with 24-carat gold and embellished with red and green crystal balls and millions of Swarovski crystals.

Minaret

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque has 4 minarets, each of which has a height of around 106 metres. Exuding the typical feature of classic Islamic architecture, these minarets are made of three different geometrical shapes.

Reflective Pools

You can find stunning blue-tiled rectangular pools across the mosque, which offer the reflections of the different features of the mosque and tend to glow under the floodlights at night. These pools are some of the most famous attractions of the mosque, and are regularly featured in the yearly Spaces of Light photography competition.

Columns

There are internal as well as external columns in the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. The arcades of the mosque are surrounded by 1,096 columns, all of which are made of white marble panels, and decorated with precious stones like red agate, amethyst, lapis lazuli, etc. The external columns of the mosque have a design inspired from the date palm trees.

Mihrab

Located in the middle of the Qibla Wall, Mihrab is one of the most important elements of the mosque, and has a design inspired by one of the many references to Paradise made in the Quran. There is a yellow golden leaf-glass mosaic design on it, which flows in a downward direction from a beehive feature at the top. It is semicircular in shape, and represents the place where the Imam stands to lead the worshippers.

Sahan

Also known as the Courtyard, Sahan is an open area in the mosque, where worshippers gather during prayers or during the holy month of Ramadan, and Eid. Made of the finest pieces of marble, the courtyard also features mosaic and floral elements, with the edges having designs of flowers like Lily, Iris and Tulip.

What to Expect at Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque?

Witness Beautiful Exhibits at Exhibitions

There are regular exhibitions organised at the Sheikh Zayed Mosque Abu Dhabi. These exhibitions predominantly have beautiful displays and exhibits of traditional Islamic arts. Additionally, you can also find exhibits of calligraphy, and other artefacts that showcase the artistic heritage of Islamic civilisation at the exhibitions held here. Quite a number of exhibitions organised at the Sheikh Zayed Mosque also help visitors gain an in-depth insight into the architectural significance of this mosque as well. From learning about the history of Islamic art in different regions of the world, to seeing various scripts of Arabic calligraphy, artistic photos of the mosque and its features and other displays, the exhibitions held inside the museum are some of its most popular attractions.

Learn while Enjoying Youth Activities

At the mosque, you can also learn a lot whilst enjoying a wide array of different youth activities. The mosque centre organises several activities and events which help you to learn about the region’s rich culture and heritage. Some of the most famous youth activities here include the Cultural Guidance Training Program, or the Ibn Al-Dar, where you can help to guide groups of visitors during cultural tours inside the mosque. Then, you can also take part in the Junior Culture Guide Program, which lets you organise the tours inside the mosque, and give you a practical experience of being cultural tour guides. These youth activities are perfect to develop your skills, knowledge and abilities.

Show your Creative Side at Workshops

Some of the best things to do at the mosque include attending the different workshops that are organised here. Through these workshops, you can not only learn about the aesthetics and intricacies of Islamic art and architecture, but also showcase your own creativity. Designed for different age groups and sections of people, these workshops typically include drawing, sculpture making, Arabic calligraphy and other forms of art, not just from the UAE, but also from other parts of the world.

Recreational Facilities at Grand Mosque Walkway

You can also enjoy a wide range of different recreational facilities at the Grand Mosque Walkway during your visit. Said to be one of the best and most significant facilities inside the mosque, the walkway offers visitors a chance to indulge in various outdoor sports, whilst also enjoying the beautiful views of the mosque and the surrounding greenery and landscapes. The Grand Mosque Walkway boasts of several cafes and restaurants where visitors can relax and enjoy a delicious meal and drinks. It also has a huge cultural and architectural centre, along with a three-kilometre-long walking track, flanked by dozens of palm trees and other species of plants and trees.

Fill your Hunger of Reading at Mosque Library

When visiting the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, you can get your fill of knowledge by visiting the Mosque Library, which was opened in 2010 and houses thousands of books and reading material with focus of Islamic civilization and other things. Located at the visitor centre, the library also has a state-of-the-art media source, from visual and audio material, to journals, theses and more.

Cultural Tours

Free cultural tours are organised on a regular basis by the authorities of the mosque centre, and offer visitors a chance to indulge in an educational, cocktail and interactive experience. In addition to learning about the cultural role of the mosque in promoting the tolerance and co-existence of Islam with other religions, you can also learn about the mosque’s history and construction. These cultural tours also offer you a chance to find more information about elements of Islamic art, culture, traditions and architecture. A cultural tour of the museum typically ranges between 30 to 45 minutes.

Mind-Blowing Facts about Sheikh Zayed Mosque

  • The Sheikh Zayed Mosque Abu Dhabi is made entirely out of natural materials, including pure white marble, 24-carat gold, precious and semi-precious stones as well as Swarovski crystals
  • The mosque is home to the largest hand-knotted carpet in the world, made of Iranian cotton and New Zealand wool, and weighs around 35 tons
  • One of the minarets of the mosque is home to a library, where you can find books in a variety of different languages, including Arabic, English, Korean, German, Spanish, French as well as Italian
  • All of the seven chandeliers of the mosque are gold-plated, and embellished with millions of stunning Swarovski crystals
  • The minarets of the mosque were built in the Mameluke, Ottoman and Fatimid styles of architecture, thereby blending traditional art and design with Islamic architecture

Essential Information about Sheikh Zayed Mosque

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How to Reach
Space of Light Photography Award

Best Time to Visit:The best time to visit the Sheikh Zayed Mosque Abu Dhabi is during early morning, or late afternoon. These are the times of the day when the weather here is pleasant, which can be helpful while you explore the mosque.

Location & Opening Hours:Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Street، - 5th St - Abu Dhabi - United Arab EmiratesThe Mosque is open between 09:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. from Saturdays to Thursdays, and between 04:30 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. on Fridays. It is closed for tourists on Friday mornings.

Dress Code:Visitors are required to maintain a proper dress code; shoulders, knees and midriff should always be covered, and shoes must be removed at the entry gate of the mosque. Additionally, women must wear Abayas during their visit, which are provided at the mosque premises for no extra charge.

AccessibilitiesThe mosque is completely accessible for visitors with disabilities, including having ramps for those in wheelchairs.

By Car/ Cab:You can take a taxi or drive directly to the mosque from anywhere in Abu Dhabi.

By Bus:You can avail the direct bus from Omar Bin Al Khatab to Abu Dhabi to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque to reach here. The total bus journey takes around 30 to 45 minutes.

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Center organises the “Space of Light Photography Competition” every year. This competition aims to represent the intricate aesthetics of the Islamic style of architecture, which is evident in every part of this grand mosque. The competition also helps to promote the Islamic architecture, its elements and properties to the world.Photographers from all over the world join the competition every year and showcase their talent. The winners of the different categories of the Space of Light Photography competition then receive several rewards, from trophies and cash prizes, to other things, making it one of the most significant photography and visual arts competitions in the world.

Quick Tips for Visiting Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

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  • The mosque remains closed to visitors till 03:00 p.m. on Fridays, so you must plan your visit accordingly
  • You must always have at least 2 to 3 hours’ time in your hand to fully explore the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
  • While you can enter the mosque for free, you can enjoy a guided tour of the mosque, which includes a professional Emirati guide if you purchase the tour tickets
  • Since the mosque is a place of worship, you must be dressed in a modest fashion, and cover yourself fully
  • In order to avoid the excessive Abu Dhabi, it is advisable to carry sunglasses and sunscreen with you during your visit

Sheikh Zayed Mosque FAQ's

What is so special about Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque?

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is special for being one of the largest mosques in the whole world, in addition to being the largest in all of UAE. It is known for holding the Guinness Book Record for having the largest hand-knotted carpet and one of the largest chandeliers in a mosque.

What are the etiquettes that need to be kept in mind before visiting Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Abu Dhabi?

While visiting the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, visitors must adhere to the strict dress code here, which states that your clothes should not be transparent and must cover the entire body. Additionally, women are also required to wear headscarves and abayas when they are inside the mosque.

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How was the experience of visiting Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque at Night?

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque at night is nothing short of spectacular. The reflective pools, located along the courtyard offer stunning reflections of the structure of the mosque against the night sky. The unique lighting system here also displays the stunning phases of the moon in varying intensities on the exterior walls of the mosque.

The colour of the mosque, under the lighting system, gradually changes every two days, from a stunning pearl white, to a serene blue colour, which becomes deeper as the moon enters its waning phase. On the 14th night of the cycle, the mosque becomes the deepest blue colour, which signifies the “no moon” phase.

Is photography allowed in Sheikh Zayed Mosque?

Yes, photography is allowed in the Sheikh Zayed Museum. However, taking photographs with female visitors, or of worshippers praying here, is prohibited and considered rude.

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