Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Entry Tickets

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Think the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is too good to be true? Find out how culture shakes hands with architectural amazement in this guide

Built with the vision to become a cultural haven and unite people around the globe of all cultures and religions, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi is the legacy of UAE’s founding father after whom the mosque is named after, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. From rags to riches, this architecture narrates its glory and humbleness.

Between Musaffah Bridge and Maqta Bridge, near the entrance to Abu Dhabi Island, His Highness selected the site and provided architectural guidance for the project. His body currently resides in the mosque’s courtyard, fulfilling the request that it serve as his final resting place.

Fun fact: A smaller replica of the grand mosque exists in the Indonesian city of Surakarta.

History 

The Sheikh Zayed Grand mosque took 11 years to build between 1994 to 2007 and was inaugurated in December 2007. The building was a cultural fusion with inspirations from British, Emirati, and Italian architects. Combining Fatimid, Mamluk, and Ottoman designs served as inspiration for designers.

The mosque is capable of accommodating more than 40,100 attendees, while the main prayer hall can hold more than 7,000 people. There are two smaller prayer halls with a combined seating capacity of 1,500, one of which is designated for women.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Architecture and Construction

The impressive building was created and constructed by expert teams from around the world, including 1,300 Iranian craftsmen who hand-knotted the largest carpet in the world for the main prayer hall using New Zealand wool.

24-carat gold-plated Swarovski chandeliers, 96 internal columns set with priceless jewels like lapis lazuli, amethyst, and jasper, 1096 exterior columns, and 82 white marble carved domes. This doesn’t even begin to explain the extravagance and detailing that went into the building of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

Architect Yousef Abdelky is the mastermind behind the visual and artistic view of the structure, he used more than 3000 workers and 38 construction companies costing 2 billion dollars in overall construction. 

The Qibla wall has 99 names of Allah inscribed in the Kufic script.

The courtyard, with its floral pattern, has been estimated to be the largest marble mosaic in the entire world, measuring over 17,000 m2 (180,000 sq ft).

How To Dress Appropriately For Your Visit

Visitors must be respectful of the Islamic culture and religion of the country. Remember to take off your shoes before entering and dress modestly in long-sleeved, ankle-length attire. If you arrive unprepared, you can borrow a robe, shirtdress, or headscarf at the main entrance. 

Important Information 

You can visit the mosque and get a tour for free from 11:00 AM onwards.

Tours on Friday start at 5:00 PM

Choose a tour in morning or evening to avoid the heat

Tours last from 30-45 minutes

Wearing sunglasses is recommended as the structure is built of white marble and reflects rays

Photography is allowed but remember to be respectful of worshippers

Parking is available in the southern carpark

Smoking is strictly prohibited

Food and beverages are not allowed to protect the mosque from any spills and damage

Wheelchairs are available and can be ordered from the security personnel

Visitor Timings : Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Saturday to Thursday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Friday: 9:00 AM to 12 noon and reopens from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM

Naqiya Saifee

An explorer at heart and a wordsmith by profession, discovered early on that her joys were found in blending the themes of travel and storytelling. With a background in creative writing and a passion for culture, she takes you to the soul of the destination. Join her as she spins tales of curious cultures for curious minds.