Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is the largest mosque in UAE and it sits majestically at the entrance to Abu Dhabi City Island, distinctly visible from the three main bridges connecting the island to the main land, the Maqta, Mussafah and the Sheikh Zayed Bridge.As the country’s grand mosque, it is the key place of worship for Friday gathering and Eid prayers.
It is an architectural masterpiece featuring 82 domes, over a 1,000 columns, 24 carat gold gilded chandeliers and the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet. The main prayer hall is dominated by one of the world??s largest chandeliers in a mosque ??10 metres in diameter, 15 metres in height and weighing twelve tonnes. All chandeliers have glass panels studded with Swarovski crystals.One of its most distinguishing characteristics is the pure white colour of the Mosque.
Another attraction is the unique lighting system of the grand mosque.The unique lighting system was designed to reflect the phases of the moon. Soft undulating clouds of a bluish grey colour are projected onto the white marble external surfaces of the mosque including the façade and domes.The lightning effect become more brilliant on the full moon day.
There is strict code to be followed when visiting the mosque.Abaya(black cloak or loose over-garment worn by Muslim women) will be given to women.Men can go inside without changing, but if you are wearing shorts, you will be given white robes at the entrance.Food and drinks are not allowed inside the mosque.
Location: Abudhabi
Visitor Timings : Sat – Thurs 9am – 10pm .Last entry is 9.30pm.
Friday – The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is closed for tourism activities (and open for worship) on Friday morning and opens again at 4:30 pm – 10 p.m
Daily ??walk-in?? tour schedule:
Sunday – Thursday: 10am, 11am and 5pm
Friday : 5pm, 7pm
Saturday : 10am, 11am, 2pm, 5pm and 7pm