Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Icon of Islamic Architecture & Cultural Harmony

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the largest mosques in the world and an architectural masterpiece, created through Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan's vision as founder of UAE and symbolising Islamic culture and beauty.

Completed in 2007, this incredible structure consists of 82 domes and 22 light towers that adjust their hue with moon phases, providing visitors an eye-catching design of Persian and Mughal influences.

Capturing Symmetry: 82 Domes of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is an incredible work of architecture, boasting grandiose grandeur and intricate details that have captured visitors from around the globe. Featuring semi-precious stone inlays and the world's largest chandelier made up of twinkling Swarovski crystals, there is something here for everyone at Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

Its 82 domes are truly impressive and their symmetrical beauty has been captured by thousands of photographers. Each dome is embellished with gold-glass mosaic, while its exterior cladding is composed of white marble.

Over 100,000 tonnes of white marble from Macedonia was used in the construction of this mosque, designed as a symbol of purity and piety by Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan (may Allah rest his soul). Visitors may visit, though please show respect towards those praying.

Architectural Serenity: The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque was designed as an architectural masterpiece to provide peace and serenity, making it one not to be missed. Clad with beautiful white marble that's been inlaid with precious and semi-precious gemstones such as lapis lazuli, red agate, amethyst and abalone shell, this breathtaking structure should not be overlooked.

Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who passed away earlier this year, initiated the project. His vision for its development envisioned a building which combined Islamic cultural diversity with historic architecture and art values to form one harmonious whole.

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque was constructed using artisans from various countries including New Zealand, Italy, Germany, Egypt, Turkey Pakistan and Greece. Its massive dimensions aim to unify Muslims around the globe.

Gateway To UAE's Spiritual And Cultural Heritage: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque provides visitors with an insight into the spiritual and cultural life of UAE. As one of Abu Dhabi's premier cultural experiences, this mosque provides visitors with an unforgettable cultural experience.

The monumental place of worship boasts 82 domes and can accommodate up to 40,000 worshipers and visitors at once in its main prayer hall. Its stunning architecture represents an amalgam of cross-cultural influences.

Join a guided tour led by an expert UAE historian for the best way to experience a mosque. Standard tours typically last three hours and feature a coffee break at New Visitors Center and plaza.

Global Unity At Sheikh Zayed Mosque

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque welcomes visitors from around the globe, to appreciate its beauty and learn more about Islam. Designed as a place of peace by Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan between 1996 and 2007 as a means of uniting Muslims around the globe, visitors from across all backgrounds are sure to find comfort here.

Visitors are welcome at the mosque from Saturday to Thursday and Friday afternoon. Long trousers and long sleeved shirt are required and shoes will need to be removed upon entry; sunset through evening are amongst the most pleasant times to visit the mosque.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Insights

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque offers visitors an ideal setting to find peace, as well as insight into Muslim culture and beliefs. While its capacity may allow it to accommodate up to 40,000 worshipers at any one time, Ramadan tends to see this number increase considerably.

The mosque features 82 domes crafted from white Greek and Macedonian marble, each perfectly symmetrical as an expression of exquisite Moroccan art displayed throughout.

ITC has taken various steps to ensure a safe and smooth traffic flow during the last ten days of Ramadan. These measures include stationing traffic inspectors at signalised intersections and roads around the mosque to monitor and control movement of traffic.