How to visit the Grand Mosque of Abu Dhabi

When you visit the Grand Mosque of Abu Dhabi, you’ll experience breathtaking architecture, cultural richness, and serene spiritual beauty.  

 

Immense, gorgeous, and glamorous, the Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi dazzles both under the blazing desert sun and when illuminated brightly beneath the moon. Visible from almost anywhere in the city, it’s impossible to miss.

 

And even if it were, you wouldn’t want to miss it — this architectural marvel is awe-inspiring and worth visiting at least once.

 

 

How enormous is the Sheikh Zayed Mosque?

 

To grasp the sheer size of the construction, picture four football stadiums placed side by side.

 

Or imagine 12 hectares of land; that’s just the mosque itself, not including the surrounding parking area. It’s a space large enough to accommodate more than 40,000 people praying simultaneously.

 

Even so, the Sheikh Zayed Mosque does not hold the title of the largest mosque in the world. It’s surpassed by at least two mosques in the neighboring country of Saudi Arabia: Mecca and Medina.

 

 

 

Sheikh Zayed Mosque – the starting project | Grand Mosque Abu Dhabi facts

 

The Great Mosque of the United Arab Emirates has been planned as a gigantic project since the beginning, from all points of view, and its completion lasted more than 10 years. The cost, of course, was huge, as expected: a little over half a billion dollars.

 
Although the investment was huge financially and in the labor force, all these did not represent obstacles for the Emirates President of the Emirates at the time, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

 He had an ambitious and well-defined dream to build the largest and most beautiful mosque in the Emirates. A space that symbolizes peace, love, and tolerance.

 
Unfortunately, the late president has not lived enough to admire the mosque’s splendor. Unfortunately, he died before the project was completed in 2007.

 
The mosque’s first ceremony was a deeply symbolic one — the funeral of Sheikh Zayed, the country’s former leader, who was laid to rest within its grounds. Fittingly, the mosque bears his name in honor of his legacy.

 

 

What I use every time I travel:

• To book hotels: Booking.com
• To book tours: GetYourGuide.com

 

 

How to visit the Grand Mosque of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed

 

 

Grand Mosque Abu Dhabi timings

 

   Although it’s the number one tourist attraction in Abu Dhabi and thousands of visitors worldwide come here daily, access to the mosque doesn’t require a ticket and is free. But you do need to register before visiting.

 
Anyone can visit it, and the schedule is very generous. Sheikh Zayed mosque is open to the public from Sunday to Thursday, from 9 am to 10 pm. The same for Friday, except for a few hours when is pray time.

 

 
 
I have visited it twice, on a Tuesday afternoon in March and another time in April, 7 years apart. It has been difficult for me to choose the right moment of the day, knowing that the imposing structure is beautiful both during the day and when it is colored in blue lights after sunset.

 
I chose to see it in the natural light, wanting to analyze in detail its architecture and splendid patterns drawn on the white marble.

 

 

 

 

What’s the appropriate outfit for Sheikh Zayed Mosque | Grand Mosque Abu Dhabi dress code

 

    Even if it’s relaxing and enjoyable, when you visit the Grand Mosque of Abu Dhabi, you must follow some rules and restrictions. You must respect them if you don’t want to be banished from the religious site.

 

A few years ago, visitors could borrow abayas to enter the mosque. However, this is no longer an option; you must now bring your own. If you don’t have one, don’t worry; there are plenty of stores in the underground mall where you can purchase one.

 

Wearing a modest outfit that fully covers your body is essential for both men and women when visiting the mosque. For women, I recommend bringing a beautiful abaya to meet the dress code and to capture stunning photos against the backdrop of this magnificent mosque.

 

 

More important things to consider when visiting the Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi

 

Other important rules are related to the affectional gestures between you and your partner within the mosque.

 
These are completely forbidden! The same is true when photographing Muslim women or people who are praying. Keep the camera as far away from them as possible.

 
Ensure you’re well-hydrated and ate well before because you cannot consume food or drinks indoors when you visit the Grand Mosque of Abu Dhabi. It is also mandatory to take your shoes off in a specially designed space for shoe storage.

 
You can keep your socks if you want to. Even if these rules seem too strict, you must remember that you are in a different country with a different religion and culture.

 

 

 

  Visiting Sheikh Zayed Mosque on your own or a tour

 

 

When you visit the opulent Grand Mosque of Abu Dhabi, you have two options: discover each space on your own or choose one of the free one-hour tours that occur several times a day.

 
I wanted to explore the place in the order of my choice. I also had to allocate time to each space without being restricted by the group I would have belonged to if I had been going for this option.

 
My choice seemed inspired because I needed about 3 hours to make the most of every detail of the splendid building.

 

 

 

 

  The Sheik Zayed Mosque Records | How to visit the Grand Mosque of Abu Dhabi

 

     The rug inside the Grand Mosque of Abu Dhabi

 

Like many other buildings in the Emirates, the Sheikh Zayed Mosque also holds some impressive records. One refers to the rug inside the main prayer room, the largest in the world.

 

It measures over 5,000 square meters and weighs 35 tons. It’s made entirely of wool and originated in New Zealand and Iran.

 
Although it has more than 25 colors, the predominant one is green, which is said to be the favorite color of the former president.

 
Theoretically, the carpet was made from pieces that were later put together right inside the mosque; Practically, it has been made with so much precision that these details are not noticeable. Moreover, the quality is one that you will feel instantly once you touch it with your bare feet.

 

 

     The beautiful chandeliers

 

Another record is held by one of the seven chandeliers, the third-largest in the world, decorated with thousands of Swarovski stones of several colors.

 
The chandeliers are covered in 24-karat gold, and every millimeter shows luxury.

 
The walls and ceilings are decorated with superb details. The 96 columns supporting the room are decorated with mother of pearl, making them highly precious and distinctive.

 
It is an absolute pleasure to admire all the ornaments that have been so well carved. They will make you immediately forget about the outside heat. Mainly because the temperature inside the mosque is enjoyable!

 

 

My favorite part of Sheikh Zayed Mosque

 

 One of my favorite parts is the immense, gorgeous, and immaculate interior courtyard, guarded by four tours or minarets, on the top of which there is a crescent moon, the symbol of Islam.

 
Here, the predominant color is white, the symbol of peace and purity, given by the marble from Macedonia. A huge floral pattern breaks the monotony of white.

 
All the materials used are of the highest quality, from white marble, crystals, ceramics, gold, and semiprecious stones, coming from all over the world: Morocco, Italy, India, New Zealand, Malaysia, and the list does not stop here.
 

The impressive construction brought together more than 3,000 workers and 30 contract firms. The leader is an Italian company.

 
Also, in the inner courtyard, you will notice that besides the four towers, 82 domes instantly made me think of Alladin. The similarity is not haphazard, as several mosques inspire the mosque architecture in Egypt, Pakistan, and even the famous Taj Mahal of India.

 

 

Meet the architect of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque of Abu Dhabi

 

The Syrian Yousef Abdelky, a skillful architect, could only think of such a grandeur. He also thought of a highly ingenious lighting system to synchronize with the moon’s phases.

 
Unfortunately, I did not witness the show offered by this project. But I will do it on my next visit to Abu Dhabi.

 
If you want to learn more about this part of the world, there is a library in the northwest tower of the building. The library contains an impressive collection of books written in several international languages.

 
Last, I want to mention another detail that attracted my attention. 

 
The 10 swimming pools surround the building, in which the columns and minarets are mirrored, giving the building a sense of continuity and elongation.

 

 

Best place to admire the Grand Mosque of Abu Dhabi from the outside

 

Don’t miss Wahat Al Karama, a stunning landmark in Abu Dhabi offering the best views and reflections of the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Meaning “Oasis of Dignity,” it’s a tribute to Emirati martyrs, located just across the street from the mosque. With ample parking and open 24/7, it’s especially magical after sunset—perfect for peaceful reflection and unforgettable photos.

 

 

 How to get to the Grand Mosque of Abu Dhabi

 

Most tourists put Dubai first when considering a holiday in the Emirates. However, you must know that the capital of Abu Dhabi has much to offer regarding tourist attractions. And the Sheikh Zayed Mosque is just one of them.

 
The distance between Abu Dhabi and Dubai is about an hour and a half. So, you can get here on a day trip, either on an organized tour or in a rented car. There is also the option of a bus or taxi.

 

Best tours for visiting the Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi:

 

 

Things to know before visiting the Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi

 

Parking at Grand Mosque Abu Dhabi

 

Parking won’t be an issue if you drive a rental car to the Grand Mosque. The spacious parking area is free of charge and can easily accommodate all vehicles. However, I recommend avoiding weekends if possible, as it tends to get busier during those times.

 

The Grand Mosque Abu Dhabi dress code

 

As I mentioned earlier, attire is essential when visiting the mosque. For women, I recommend wearing a beautiful abaya that fully covers your body, including your hair, arms, and ankles.

 

Men must also adhere to the dress code, and I suggest considering a thobe. It’s the most respectful and appropriate choice and allows you to fully embrace the cultural experience by wearing traditional attire.

 

 

What is the best time to visit the Grand Mosque of Sheikh Zayed?

 

The best time to visit is just before the golden hour, around sunset, or in the morning when it’s cooler and less crowded. Evening is another excellent option, as the mosque looks stunning when illuminated. Ultimately, the choice depends on your preferences and schedule.

 

Can you rent traditional clothing on-site?

 

No, traditional attire cannot be rented, but you can easily purchase it from the stores in the underground mall near the mosque.

 

 

Is photography allowed inside the Abu Dhabi Grand Mosque?

Yes, you’re allowed to take photos, provided you respect the privacy of others and ensure that your photography aligns with the cultural and religious sensitivities of the mosque. You can bring your camera. 

 

Are there any restaurants near the Grand Abu Dhabi mosque?

 

There are a few places where you can eat in the food court inside the underground mall near the mosque.