🕌 Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

About Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, completed in 2007, is one of the world's largest mosques accommodating 41,000 worshippers. This architectural marvel features 82 white marble domes, 1,000+ columns, 24-karat gold chandeliers, and the world's largest hand-knotted carpet (5,627 m²). Built by Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan to unite cultural diversity and Islam, it welcomes non-Muslim visitors to appreciate Islamic art, architecture, and values. The reflective pools and white Sivec marble create stunning photography opportunities, especially at dusk. Pair this stop with the Abu Dhabi guide and the wider United Arab Emirates overview.

⏰ Opening Hours & Best Times

• Hours: 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM Saturday-Thursday
• Friday: 4:30-10:00 PM (closed morning for prayers)
• Best time: Just before sunset (5-7 PM) for golden light and evening illumination
• Free guided tours: 10 AM, 11 AM, 5 PM daily (except Friday morning)
• Plan: 1.5-2 hours including grounds, prayer halls, reflection pools

💰 Costs

• Entry: Free
• Free guided tours: Provided by mosque volunteers
• Private guide: AED 400-700 ($109-190) for deeper cultural insights
• Abaya rental: Free for women if needed (modest dress required)
• Combined city tours: AED 250-400 per person with mosque + other Abu Dhabi sites

Advance booking: Register online at szgmc.gov.ae for smoother entry. Free abayas provided if clothing doesn't meet dress code.

🎯 Why Use a Guide

• Islamic architecture: Understand design symbolism, cultural significance, artistic details
• Religious etiquette: Ensure appropriate behavior, photography rules, respectful interaction
• Historical context: Learn about Sheikh Zayed's vision and UAE's founding
• Photography expertise: Know best angles, lighting times, reflection pool shots
• Dress code help: Ensure compliance before arrival, provide backup clothing if needed
• Deeper insights: Private guides offer more detail than free group tours

✨ Don't Miss

• ✨ Main prayer hall: World's largest chandelier (10m, 12 tons) and hand-knotted carpet
• 🏛️ 82 white domes: Varying sizes with gold crescents, Moroccan-inspired design
• 💎 Crystal chandeliers: Swarovski crystal-adorned lighting throughout
• 🌊 Reflection pools: Symmetrical pools create mirror images at dusk
• 🌙 Evening illumination: Mosque glows with moonlit lighting system after dark
• 🎨 Floral arabesque: Intricate marble inlays with semi-precious stones
• 📚 Library: 50,000+ books on Islamic history and culture (visits by appointment)

📝 Practical Tips

• Strict dress code: Long pants/skirts, covered arms, headscarves for women (provided free)
• No shoes inside: Remove at entrance, carry them in provided bags
• Book online: Register at szgmc.gov.ae to skip registration queues
• Photography allowed: But no posing disrespectfully, no photography during prayer
• Modest behavior: No public affection, loud talking, inappropriate gestures
• Friday morning closed: Plan for afternoon/evening Friday visit
• Bring socks: Marble extremely hot in summer sun if walking barefoot