Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Abu Dhabi, UAE · Whiteness embracing the light
A landmark Islamic monument known for its majestic design and brilliant white domes, one of the most beautiful mosques of the modern age.
Did you know?
- It has more than eighty white domes and four minarets, each more than one hundred meters tall.
- The main prayer hall is covered by a huge hand-made carpet, one of the largest hand-woven carpets in the world.
- A night lighting system surrounds it, its color changing gradually with the phases of the moon.
- Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan is buried beside the mosque he envisioned.
History and architecture
Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan dreamed of a mosque that would gather the masterpieces of Islamic art from many lands. Work began in the 1990s, and thousands of craftsmen and artists from around the world took part. The design combines Moroccan arches, domes inspired by Mughal architecture and floral motifs inlaid with precious stones. The outer courtyard was paved with decorated white marble, and reflecting pools surround the mosque, mirroring its columns at night. The mosque opened in 2007 CE and became one of the best-known landmarks in the Arab world, visited by worshippers and tourists of every nationality and welcoming them with introductory tours of Islamic culture. It houses a library of rare books in many languages, hosts Qur'an memorization circles, and receives millions of visitors each year on free tours.
Founded: Opened in 1428 AH / 2007 CE
Religious significance
A congregational mosque where the daily and Friday prayers are held, its courtyards filling up in Ramadan and on the Eids.
The Prophet ﷺ said: “Whoever builds a mosque seeking the Face of Allah, Allah will build for him the like of it in Paradise” (Bukhari and Muslim).
It plays a prominent role in dawah and culture, introducing millions of non-Muslim visitors to Islam and its civilization.
Visiting tips
- Best time: From just before sunset until after Isha, to watch the colors change; visitors must follow the modest dress code.
- Photography: By the reflecting pools after sunset, where the columns and domes are mirrored on the water.
- Nearby: Qasr Al Watan, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Corniche
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Get it on Google PlayFrequently asked questions
Where is Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque?
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
When was Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque founded?
Opened in 1428 AH / 2007 CE