Sheikh zayed mosque

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi is one of the world's largest mosques, blending Islamic architecture with marble and gold.

About this subject

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, located in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, is one of the largest mosques in the world. Named after the founding father of the UAE, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, it was inaugurated in 2007. The mosque complex spans over 22,000 square meters and can accommodate up to 40,000 worshippers, making it the largest mosque in the country.

Its architecture blends Mamluk, Ottoman, and Fatimid styles with Persian and Mughal influences. The main building is clad in white Macedonian marble, and the courtyards feature floral marble mosaics in various colors. The 82 domes of different sizes are topped with golden lanterns, and the four minarets rise 107 meters high. The main chandelier inside the prayer hall is one of the largest in the world, weighing about 12 tons, made of Swarovski crystal and gold leaf.

The mosque houses the largest hand-knotted Persian carpet in the world, covering 5,627 square meters, crafted by around 1,200 Iranian artisans. Besides being an active place of worship, it is a major tourist attraction open to non-Muslims, who can visit designated areas. The nighttime illumination highlights the white marble, producing a visual display that changes color according to moon phases.

The construction used materials from over 30 countries, including Italian marble, German glass, and Indian mother-of-pearl. The project took 11 years and cost about 2 billion dirhams (approximately 545 million USD). Its library contains rare manuscripts and works on Islamic science and art. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque stands as a symbol of the harmony between tradition and modernity in the Islamic world.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque open to non-Muslims?

Yes, it is open to visitors of all faiths, but they must adhere to dress codes and behavior rules, such as wearing modest clothing and removing shoes in designated areas.

What is the best time to visit the mosque?

Early morning or late afternoon are ideal to avoid crowds and enjoy natural lighting. At night, the artificial lighting enhances the beauty of the marble.

How long did it take to build the mosque?

Construction took about 11 years, from 1996 to 2007, involving thousands of workers and artisans from over 30 countries.