About this place

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, located in Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates, stands as a monumental tribute to Islamic architecture and the spiritual heart of the nation. Commissioned by the late president of the UAE, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, whose resting place is located on the grounds, the mosque serves as a symbol of diversity and unity in the Islamic world.

Architectural Marvel and Design

Completed in 2007, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is renowned for its astonishing size and architectural beauty, blending modern design techniques with ancient craftsmanship. The mosque can accommodate over 40,000 worshippers, making it one of the largest mosques in the world. Its design incorporates elements from different Muslim civilizations and celebrates the cultural diversity of the Islamic world, reflecting a bridge between the past and present of Islamic art.

The mosque's exterior is clad in gleaming white Greek and Macedonian marble, which contrasts beautifully with the blue sky of Abu Dhabi. The complex includes 82 domes of Moroccan design, over a thousand columns, and the world's largest hand-knotted carpet. The main prayer hall features one of the world's largest chandeliers, made of millions of Swarovski crystals.

Cultural and Religious Significance

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is not only a place of worship but also a center of learning and discovery. It embodies the Islamic message of peace, tolerance, and diversity. The mosque is named after Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founder and first president of the UAE, who is also buried at the site. His vision for the mosque was to integrate architectural styles from different Muslim civilizations and to create a place that would unite people from all over the world.

Visitor Experience

The mosque is open to visitors of all faiths, offering free guided tours that provide insights into the Islamic faith, the architectural marvels of the mosque, and the vision of Sheikh Zayed. The reflective pools that surround the mosque amplify its beauty at night, with the mosque's lighting system designed to reflect the phases of the moon.

Visitors are advised to dress modestly as a sign of respect, with traditional attire provided for those who need it. The experience of visiting the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is often described as awe-inspiring, offering a profound sense of peace and spiritual serenity.

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque incorporates several features aimed at sustainability and environmental preservation. The mosque's gardens and pools are irrigated with treated water, and the lighting system is designed to minimize energy consumption while highlighting the mosque's architectural features.