A star attraction of Abu Dhabi for tourists and residents alike.
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque strategically located on a rise as one crosses the equally magnificent Sheikh Zayed Bridge is UAE’s largest mosque and a triumph of architecture capturing the essence of Islam and its unique interactions with world culture.
Build along Sheikh Zayed’s Vision it incorporates architectural elements from different Muslim civilizations and celebrates cultural diversity by creating a haven that is truly diverse and inspirational in its foundation.
The Grand Mosque was constructed between 1996 and 2007, It was designed by a group pf British, Emirati & Syrian architects The building complex measures approximately 290 by 420 m (950 by 1,380 ft), covering an area of more than 12 hectares (30 acres), excluding exterior landscaping and vehicle parking.
The 96 columns in the main prayer hall are clad with marble and inlaid with mother of pearl one of the few places where one can see this craftsmanship.
It holds more than 40,000 worshipers and has three Guinness World Records, for largest handwoven carpet and the biggest chandelier, as well as the largest dome of its kind in the world.
There is something mystical and magical about this place, it has an aura of purity and peace one just gets mesmerized by it and the beauty is just astonishing.
Things to Do
Its a great place to visit with family, marvel at the amazing architecture and admire the different features like its marble inlays, the worlds largest chandeliers, the worlds largest carpet. You can visit the library as well and soak in some culture.
The Sheikh Zayed Mosque is a haven for photographers offering amazing photo opportunities at all times of the day and night, they also have their own photo competition annually that has become a huge hit with budding photographers.
The huge marble floored courtyard inlayed with different colored stones is cooled by water underneath so one can walk barefoot at all times even in the scorching heat of summer and not get burnt.
The exterior lighting is aligned with the phases of the moon and changes as the light of the moon changes giving it a unique glow of its own at night.
When To Visit
The best times to visit are late evenings as the sun sets so you get to see the Mosque in its elements how the vista changes with the light. It’s a family friendly place and kids are welcome as well, the is no eating or drinking permitted inside but there is a little restaurant and gift shop available.
One of the great wonders of Abu Dhabi and a must visit.
