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Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

In Abu Dhabi

Regarded as the pride and joy of the people of Abu Dhabi, The Sheikh Zayed Mosque is a direct representation of the United Arab Emirate’s grand and outstanding efforts, continuously setting the bar higher for the rest of the world.

Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan

The first president of the United Arab Emirates and ruler of the capital city, Abu Dhabi. The mosque was created in order to communicate the late Sheikh’s faith and determination to promote diversity and tolerance in his beloved UAE. The color and architectural properties of the mosque were decided by the founding father as they eluded purity, piety and peace. 

Exterior Architecture

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a direct representation of modern Islamic architecture. The magnificent structure is comprised of 80 domes and supported by 1000 pillars. Each dome is covered in pure white, East-European marble, intricately decorated with geometric and floral designs as well as in-laid with precious stones. 

Interior Architecture

The interior of the mosque pays homage to many old Islamic dynasties such as the Mamluk and Ottoman empires, however remains consistent with the exterior’s contemporary design. The main prayer room houses the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet, measuring up to 5,700 square meters, created by 1,200 Iranian artisans. In addition to the jaw-dropping carpet, the mosque is decorated with seven custom-made crystal chandeliers, flown in from Germany. The walls of the prayer halls are engraved with Arabic calligraphy, displaying the 99 names of God as well as other Arabesque and geometric patterns.

Visitor Information:

Daily Visitor Hours:
Saturday – Thursday from 9:00 am – 10:00 pm
Friday from 4:30 – 10:00 pm
*Opening times differ during the holy month of Ramadan.
Entry & Tours:
You may enter the mosque without prior booking and roam and photograph freely, although you will not be allowed access to the interior during the daily Islamic prayer times.
A 45-minute guided tour is available in both English and Arabic for those who prefer a more interactive and educational experience. Booking is necessary if you are a group of eight or more, otherwise you may see the scheduled tour times here and be sure to arrive on time.   
Dress code:
For men: avoid short, tight-fitting pants and sleeveless t-shirts
For women: avoid short, tight-fitting skirts or pants and half-sleeve or sleeveless t-shirts. Women must wear a headscarf. 
Culturally appropriate clothing may be provided at the mosque should you require it. 

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