Planning a trip to Abu Dhabi? You already know the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque has to be on your must-visit list – it’s a no-brainer! But let me be honest, visiting the mosque for the first time without doing any proper research might lead to towards some hiccups. I completely understand how it feels to be a tourist in a foreign country, trying to adapt to new customs and traditions that may feel unfamiliar to what you’re used to back home. Good thing you have me now because I’m here to make things as easy as pie for you! Consider me your guide to all the essentials you need to know about the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. From “What’s the dress code?” and “When is the best time to visit?” to “Can I take pictures inside?” – I’ve got all the answers to your questions, and then some!
What Makes The Mosque So Unique
Walking into the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is like stepping into a masterpiece. Being known as one of the largest mosques in the world, this architectural marvel is a place where people from all backgrounds can connect, learn, and admire the beauty of Islamic art and culture. Built under the vision of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the UAE’s Founding Father, the mosque is a testament to his dream of creating a welcoming sanctuary for people of all faiths. Skilled teams from across the globe contributed to its construction, blending traditional Islamic design with modern influences. Inside, you’ll find dazzling gold-plated Swarovski chandeliers, intricately designed columns inlaid with amethyst and jasper, and vast marble mosaics in the courtyard. Outside, the reflective pools and four soaring minarets standing at 106 meters high create a serene and awe-inspiring atmosphere.
Is The Mosque Open To Non-Muslims?
Absolutely! The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is open to everyone, including non-Muslim visitors. Guided tours in English and Arabic are free and highly recommended for those who want to learn more about the mosque’s history and cultural significance.
The Dress Code: Strict Rules On What You Cannot Wear
Dressing appropriately is essential when visiting the mosque. Here’s a breakdown of the dress code for what men and women in the mosque
Women:
- Ladies must wear a headscarf, covering their hair at all times
- Modest, conservative, loose fitting clothing – long sleeves (wrist length), long skirts (ankle length) or trousers.
- Abayas can be worn, however they should be closed at the front or buttoned up and not see-through.
- No shorts
- No tight clothing, no swimwear and no beachwear
- T-shirts with slogans may not be appropriate
Men:
- No transparent (see-through) or white clothing
- Short sleeves are allowed for men, however sleeveless shirts are not allowed
- No shorts
- No tight clothing, no swimwear and no beachwear
- T-shirts with slogans may not be appropriate
General Rules For All Visitors To Keep In Mind Inside The Mosque
To main respect for the Islamic culture, the Mosque and the Muslim worshippers who will be there, here are some general rules all visitors must for the entire time:
- Visible tattoos must be covered
- Shoes must be removed before entering the mosque, so we recommend slip off shoes
- Intimate behaviour; i.e. holding hands or kissing is not acceptable in a Muslim place of worship
- Smoking and consumption of food is not permitted on the mosque premises
- Lying down on the carpet in the main prayer hall is not allowed
- Photography is allowed everywhere in the mosque except Sheikh Zayed mausoleum
- For safety and respect to worshippers, visitors should stay within the areas of the mosque that are permitted and not roam freely around
- Visitors are requested not to touch the Holy Quran (Holy Book) and other architectural elements inside the main prayer hall
- Children are to be supervised at all times by parents. Personal safety must be observed at all times (Note: The architecture includes several reflective pools and should be avoided at all times by children)
How To Reach The Mosque
Here’s how you can plan your journey to the Mosque, whether you’re coming from Abu Dhabi or Dubai.
Dubai:
- Car: If you’re travelling from Dubai, driving is the most convenient option – it’s about a 1–1.5 hour journey, depending on traffic.
- Taxi: you can book a ride on several of Dubai’s convenient ride-hailing apps – Careem, Uber, Zed, Bolt, and Yango (prices will vary across apps).
- RTA Bus: For a budget-friendly option, you can take a bus from Global Village in Dubai to Abu Dhabi, but be prepared for a longer journey of around 4.5 hours with transfers.
Abu Dhabi:
- Car: If you’re already in Abu Dhabi, driving will get you to the mosque in about 30 minutes.
- Taxi: you can book a ride on several of Abu Dhabi’s convenient ride-hailing apps – Careem, Uber, Abu Dhabi Taxi, and ITC Driver. (prices will vary across apps)
- Public Transport Bus: The line 094 bus from Abu Dhabi Bus Station to Saif Ghobash St / Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque takes 32 min including transfers and departs every 30 minutes.
What Are The Mosque’s Timings & When Is The Best Time To Visit?
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is open year-round, but choosing the right time to visit can enhance your experience. Operating hours are 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM from Saturday to Thursday and 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, then 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM on Fridays. Mornings and evenings are the best times to go, especially during the summer months from May to October, when midday heat can be intense. But if you visit during winter months, November to March, feel free to visit any time of the day without worrying about the scolding sun. And for the photography enthusiasts, aim to visit during the golden hour just before sunset for the most magical lighting (check your weather app for precise sunset timings). As the sun sets, the mosque glows beautifully, reflecting in the pools and creating picture-perfect moments. Weekdays are usually quieter than weekends, so plan accordingly if you want to avoid the crowds.
Final Tips For A Magical Visit
The best part of it all is that entry is FREE! So, take your time to explore and soak in the incredible details of this iconic landmark. Whether you’re admiring the intricate mosaics, walking through the serene courtyards, or marvelling at the chandeliers in the prayer hall, every corner of the mosque offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
And there you have it, you are now armed with the information you need to know to visit the Abu Dhabi Grand Mosque with all the rules and guidelines in mind to enjoy a splendid experience! Visit their website to register for an access pass and to get more information
