Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is not only the largest and most magnificent mosque in the UAE, but also a symbol of peace, tolerance, and diversity in the Islamic world. The mosque was built in honor of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the first president of the UAE, who wanted to create a place of worship that would unite people of different cultures and faiths. In this article, you will learn everything you need to know before you visit Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, from its stunning architecture and design, to its cultural and spiritual aspects, to its practical and logistical details. Whether you are a Muslim or a non-Muslim, a local or a tourist, a history buff or an art lover, you will find something to admire and appreciate in this majestic masterpiece.
Architecture and Design of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
The mosque covers an area of 22,412 square meters and can accommodate up to 40,000 worshippers. It has 82 white marble domes of various sizes, four 107-meter-high minarets, and 1,048 columns decorated with floral motifs and semi-precious stones. The mosque’s exterior design reflects a fusion of different Islamic architectural styles, from Egypt, Turkey, Morocco, and India. The domes are inspired by the Taj Mahal, the minarets by the Hassan II Mosque, the columns by the Alhambra, and the floral patterns by the Mamluk era.
The main prayer hall is the largest and most impressive part of the mosque, with a capacity of 7,000 worshippers. It has seven crystal chandeliers, the largest of which weighs 12 tons and measures 10 meters in diameter. The floor is covered by the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet, which took 1,200 artisans and two years to complete. The mihrab, the niche that indicates the direction of Mecca, is made of gold and mosaic tiles. The qibla wall, the wall that faces Mecca, is adorned with 99 names of Allah in Arabic calligraphy. The windows are fitted with stained glass panels that create a stunning light effect.
The mosque’s interior design is based on the concept of harmony and balance, using geometric and floral patterns, as well as the colors of white, gold, blue, and green. The white represents purity and peace, the gold represents wealth and prosperity, the blue represents water and sky, and the green represents nature and paradise. The number seven is a recurring theme, as it represents the seven heavens in Islam. The floral motifs are inspired by the gardens of paradise and the diversity of the UAE’s flora.
Culture and Spirituality of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
The mosque is a place of worship where Muslims perform their daily prayers, especially the Friday prayer, which is the most important one. It is also a place of learning where Muslims can study the Quran, the Hadith, and the Sharia. The mosque also hosts various events and programs, such as lectures, seminars, workshops, exhibitions, and festivals, that aim to promote the Islamic values of peace, tolerance, and compassion. The mosque also supports the needy and the poor, by providing food, clothing, and medical care.
Visitors should dress modestly and respectfully, covering their arms, legs, and head. They should also remove their shoes before entering the mosque and wash their hands, face, and feet in the ablution area. They should avoid loud noises, inappropriate gestures, and physical contact. They should also respect the prayer times and the designated areas for worshippers. The mosque is open to visitors from Saturday to Thursday, from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm, and on Friday, from 4:30 pm to 10:00 pm.
The mosque is a cultural landmark that reflects the UAE’s identity, heritage, and vision, as a young and modern nation that is rooted in its traditions and values. It is also a showcase of the Islamic civilization and diversity, as it displays the artistic and architectural achievements of different regions and periods of Islam. It is also a magnet for tourists and visitors from around the world, who come to admire its beauty and learn about its culture.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of opportunities and benefits when visiting the mosque, such as the guided tours, which are free and available in different languages, the library, which contains a collection of books and manuscripts on Islamic topics, the gift shop, which sells souvenirs and handicrafts, and the nearby attractions, such as the Wahat Al Karama memorial, the Emirates Palace hotel, and the Corniche beach.
Getting There
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is located in Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the UAE. It is about 20 kilometers away from Abu Dhabi International Airport. There are several ways to get to the mosque from different parts of the city. You can take a taxi, which is the most convenient and fastest option, but also the most expensive.
You can also take a bus, which is cheaper and more eco-friendly, but also slower and less frequent. The nearest bus station is at a 10 minutes walkable distance from the mosque. Alternatively, you can join a guided tour, which will include transportation, admission, and commentary.
You can also rent a car, which will give you more flexibility and independence, but also require more responsibility and navigation skills. If you drive, you can park for free at the mosque’s parking lot.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is in the late afternoon, an hour or so before sunset. This is because the temperature starts to drop and the mosque can be seen in different lights. The sunset is also incredible, turning the white marble a golden color in the disappearing sunlight. Another good time to visit the mosque is in the early morning, right after the mosque opens. This is because you can avoid the heat and the crowds, and enjoy the serene atmosphere of the mosque.
However, any time of day is a good time to visit the mosque, as long as you respect the prayer times and the etiquette4. The mosque is open to visitors from Saturday to Thursday, from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm, and on Friday, from 4:30 pm to 10:00 pm.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a must-see attraction for anyone who visits Abu Dhabi. It is a masterpiece of architecture and design, a place of worship and learning, and a cultural landmark and symbol. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or art, you will find something to marvel at and appreciate in this magnificent mosque. Don’t miss the chance to visit Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and experience its beauty and spirit for yourself.
