Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: A Masterpiece of Islamic Architecture

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi stands as a monumental testament to the vision of the United Arab Emirates’ founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. This iconic structure blends traditional Islamic architecture with cutting‑edge engineering, creating a space that welcomes millions of visitors each year.

Historical Background

Construction began in 1996 and was completed in 2007, marking an 11‑year journey that involved artisans from more than 30 countries. Sheikh Zayed envisioned a cultural hub that would embody tolerance, unity, and the rich heritage of the Arab world.

Architectural Highlights

The mosque features 82 domes of varying sizes, the largest of which spans 85 meters in diameter. Its four 106‑metre minarets dominate the Abu Dhabi skyline. The structure is supported by over 1,000 white Macedonian marble columns, each inlaid with semi‑precious stones such as amethyst, jade, and mother‑of‑pearl.

  • World’s Largest Hand‑Knotted Carpet: Covering 5,627 m², woven by 1,300 artisans over two years.
  • Grand Chandelier: A 10‑metre‑wide, 15‑metre‑tall crystal masterpiece weighing 12 tons, adorned with millions of Swarovski crystals.
  • Largest Mosaic Marble Artwork: A 17,000 m² floral design that encircles the prayer hall.

Interior Spaces

The main prayer hall can accommodate up to 7,000 worshippers and is illuminated by natural light filtered through intricate stained‑glass windows. The hall also houses a 24‑carat gold‑plated calligraphy of Quranic verses, showcasing the finest Islamic art.

Visitor Information

The mosque is open to visitors of all faiths, offering free guided tours in multiple languages. Dress code is modest: women should cover their heads (abayas are provided) and men must wear long trousers.

Opening Hours Sat‑Thu: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Fri: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM (worship only), 3:00 PM – 10:00 PM (visitors)
Entry Fee Free
Dress Code Modest attire required; head covering for women.

Getting There

Located on Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Street, the mosque is easily reachable by taxi, bus, or the Abu Dhabi Metro (Green Line, Al Jazeera Station). The Route 94 bus stops directly at the visitor centre.

Nearby Attractions

After visiting the mosque, consider exploring the Wahat Al Karama memorial, the Qasr Al Watan palace, or the vibrant Al Qana district for dining.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is photography allowed? Yes, but flash photography is prohibited inside the prayer hall.
  • Are there facilities for families? Prayer rooms, baby‑changing stations, and wheelchair‑accessible ramps are available.
  • When is the mosque closed to visitors? Friday prayers (12 PM – 3 PM) – the hall is closed to tourists during this time.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is not only a place of worship but also a cultural bridge that welcomes people from every corner of the globe. Its blend of art, architecture, and hospitality makes it a must‑visit destination for anyone traveling to the United Arab Emirates.