Located in the heart of Abu Dhabi, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the most iconic landmarks in the UAE. This architectural masterpiece blends tradition and innovation, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the region. Whether you’re drawn to its intricate details, serene atmosphere, or cultural significance, the mosque offers an unforgettable experience.
A Vision of Unity and Peace
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque was the realization of a dream envisioned by Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Founding Father of the UAE. As early as the 1980s, Sheikh Zayed envisioned the mosque not only as a place of worship but also as a cultural center that would symbolize Islamic traditions, promote tolerance, and serve as a hub for learning and understanding. Syrian architect, Yousef Abdelky began design work on the mosque in the mid-1980s. The late HH Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan wanted to establish a structure that would unite the Islamic world’s cultural diversity, historical and modern values of architecture and art. Construction began in 1996, with Sheikh Zayed closely overseeing the work to ensure that his vision came to life. However, he passed away in 2004 before the mosque’s completion. The mosque was officially opened in 2007, and it stands as a lasting tribute to his legacy. This is the UAE’s official and largest mosque built to accommodate 50 000 worshippers. In total, the complex covers an area of 555,000 square metres and is believed to be the eighth largest in the world.
Sheikh Zayed’s legacy lives on through this architectural wonder. His final resting place is in a mausoleum beside the north side of the mosque. The continuous 24/7 recitations of the Quran from the mausoleum, echoing throughout the mosque, enhance the spiritual ambiance and elevate the beauty of the space.
Architectural Wonders
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a stunning blend of different Islamic architectural styles, reflecting the diversity of the Muslim world. Its design incorporates elements from Mameluke, Fatimid, Moroccan, Mughal, and Ottoman styles, creating a harmonious fusion that celebrates the rich heritage of Islamic art and architecture.
The mosque is adorned with 82 domes and four towering minarets 106 m high each, defining its stunning skyline. One of the minarets actually contains a library, making it one of a kind library in the world. The largest of the 82 domes is positioned over the centre of the main prayer hall and is 84m high and with a diameter of 36.2m. The whole mosque complex is lifted 9 meters above the ground for it to be seen from a distance. The dome’s exterior look is designed in traditional Mughal style with intricate Moroccan-inspired interior decorations. The interior decorations of the domes are crafted from gypsum reinforced with glass, featuring beautiful Quranic verses in calligraphy. These exquisite details elevate the mosque’s interior, blending craftsmanship with spiritual significance.
Surrounding the courtyard, the mosque features an impressive 1 000 columns. These marble columns are decorated with intricate floral patterns made from semi-precious stones using the pietra dura technique, a traditional method of inlaying stones into marble. Semi-precious stones such as lapis lazuli, red agate, amethyst, malachite and, in the centre of the flowers, mother of pearl, were carved and positioned by hand. The overall design of the columns is based on the trunk of the date palm which has historical, cultural and economic importance for Abu Dhabi. These columns blend craftsmanship with symbolism, enhancing the mosque’s artistic grandeur.
The mosque’s facade and exterior cladding are crafted from Sivec marble, sourced from Macedonia. This pristine white marble envelops the entire structure, creating a sense of purity and serenity. The marble’s reflective quality amplifies the mosque’s beauty, particularly during sunset when it glows under the changing hues of the sky. This is further elevated by intricate gold accents, which highlight the mosque’s key architectural features. The concrete construction was carried out by the British company Halcrow Ltd., ensuring the structural integrity and magnificence of the mosque. The interior works of the mosque were carried out by Spatium, the Italian company tasked to provide Abu Dhabi with an extraordinary landmark.
Magnificent Chandeliers
The mosque features a total of seven chandeliers, all crafted by the renowned German firm named Faustig. The largest chandelier is a record-breaking masterpiece, recognized as the largest in the world. It has a height of 15,5, spans a 10 meter diameter, and weighs a staggering 12 tonnes.
The smaller chandeliers are equally impressive, as even the smallest chandelier weighs 2 tonnes, has a diameter of 4,5 m and a height of 6,5 m. These breathtaking pieces are adorned with gold plated steel, Italian glass and a total of 40 million Swarovski crystals, adding a luxurious shimmer to the mosque’s interior. The design of the chandeliers is based on the date palm tree, the symbol of life and prosperity in the region.
The Main Prayer Hall and Qibla Wall
The main prayer hall is a spiritual and architectural highlight and is covered in Italian marble. It features the Qibla wall, which faces Mecca and it is the direction of Muslims when they pray. This Qibla wall is adorned with an exquisite flower motif and calligraphy by the renowned Emirati calligrapher Mohammed Mandi Al Tamimi. The wall’s design includes 99 flowers, each inscribed with one of the 99 attributes of Allah, as mentioned in the Surah Al-Noor in the Holy Quran. The combination of floral art and sacred calligraphy enhances the hall’s spiritual atmosphere, making it a truly awe-inspiring space for prayer and reflection.
The World’s Largest Mosaic Courtyard
The mosque is home to the world’s largest mosaic courtyard, a masterpiece that can accommodate up to 30,000 people. This expansive space is adorned with a stunning floral design by British artist Kevin Dean, crafted using 30 different types of marble sourced from India, Greece, China, and Italy creating lilies, irises and tulips. The vibrant floral patterns, set against the dazzling white marble, create a breathtaking visual experience that adds to the mosque’s magnificence.
The World’s Largest Carpet
The hand-knotted Persian carpet in the main prayer hall is another remarkable feature. Weighing an astounding 35 tonnes, it was crafted entirely by hand by 1,200 artisans in Iran. The intricate design and execution took in total two years to complete. The carpet was then transported to the mosque in pieces and meticulously assembled on-site. Spanning over 5,400 square meters, it is a testament to the dedication, artistry, and skill of the artisans.
Reflecting Pools and Lighting Inspired by the Lunar Cycle
Around the perimeter of the mosque, there is a series of rectangular, blue-tiled reflective pools that are a traditional feature of Islamic architecture and gardens and act as a symbol of life.
At night, the pools enhance the effect of the ‘lunar’ lighting. This clever lighting system was designed by lighting architects, Jonathon Speirs and Major, British lighting company, and mimics the moon’s phases.
The mosque’s night lighting is as captivating as its day-time beauty. Designed to reflect the Islamic lunar calendar, the blue hue of the mosque’s lighting becomes darker toward the new moon and gradually lightens toward the full moon, symbolizing the phases of the moon. There are 22 light towers and each contain 10 – 13 projectors, all custom-made for this purpose, enhancing the mosque’s enchanting ambiance during the night.
Iznik Tile Mosaics Wall Panels
Adding further to the mosque’s splendor are the Iznik tile mosaics, crafted by Turkish craftspeople and designed by Hasan Celebi, a famous Turkish calligrapher. These intricate mosaics, which decorate various parts of the mosque, are renowned for their vibrant colors and detailed floral designs. The craftsmanship of these tiles speaks to the rich artistic traditions of the Islamic world and enhances the mosque’s spiritual and aesthetic appeal.
A Spiritual Oasis
The Sheikh Zayed Mosque is not just a place of worship but also a space of reflection and peace. Walking through its courtyards, you’ll feel a sense of tranquility, surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens and reflective pools. At sunset, the mosque transforms, with its marble surfaces glowing under the changing hues of the sky.
Tips for Visiting
To make the most of your visit:
1. Dress Appropriately and follow the mosque’s code of conduct: Modest clothing is required, and abayas are available at the entrance for women to buy. Book your visit via the mosque website where all the rules will be explained.
2. Grab your smartphone or camera to make the most out of your visit. Reserve enough time, at least 1,5 hours. Trust me, you will know why!
3. Visit at Sunset: The golden hour enhances the mosque’s beauty, making it an ideal time for photography. Visiting at sunset will also give you a chance to experience a night lighting of the mosque, which is equally if not even more incredible.
Whether you’re exploring the UAE for its modern wonders or rich cultural heritage, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a must-see. It’s a reminder of how art, architecture, and spirituality can come together to inspire awe and connection. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque stands as a symbol of unity, peace, and the blending of cultures. It’s not just a destination for travelers but a place to reflect on the values of openness and harmony.
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