Visiting Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque was the absolute highlight of my time in Abu Dhabi. Nothing can prepare you for how stunning this gleaming white building, with floors and interiors covered in exquisite Islamic art, is in real life. Read on to inspire your own visit..
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What is Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque?
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the largest mosques in the world, and an active place of worship. Opened in 2007, the mosque is still relatively new, and no expense was spared on its construction. The design brings together various influences from around the Islamic world. It has classically Arab minarets, Moorish archways and also inspiration from Indo-Islamic architecture in its floorplan and domes, which were modeled on the Badshahi Mosque in Lahore, Pakistan.
How to visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is very easy to visit. Located in the centre of Abu Dhabi, you can get there by driving, taking an Uber / Kareem or using public transport. (Note that Abu Dhabi is incredibly hot, so generally not advisable to walk from A to B..!). The entrance for visitors starts in an underground shopping mall (with air conditoning!). There are plenty of shops selling cover-ups if you do not have a conservative outfit. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is open daily from 9 AM to 10 PM from Saturday to Thursday.
Visiting Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque on Fridays or during Ramadan
Friday is the holy day of prayer in Islam. Friday prayers take place just after lunchtime and the mosque is closed to other visitors during this time. If you are Muslim, this is meant to be an incredible time to visit. The mosque is open to general visitors on Fridays from 9 AM to noon and then reopens from 3 PM to 10 PM.
During the holy month of Ramadan, always check the schedule. Visiting times will vary and the mosque is closed on Fridays.
Do I need a ticket for Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque?
Visiting Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is free of charge. You will need to scan a QR code before you enter to register your visit and get the free e-ticket. You are allotted a specific time slot to control the flow of people.
To guarantee a slot you can book in advance by completing this form.
How much time should I allow?
I’d recommend allowing yourself around 3 hours to explore the mosque. I enjoyed being able to stop and soak up the atmosphere. (And take photos of course!). There’s no time limit so you can stay as long as you want (within opening hours).
Can I take a guided tour of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque?
There are also free daily tours where you can learn about the architecture, history and artwork in more detail. The tours last 30 – 45 minutes. Alternatively, audio guides available at the entrance.
Don’t want to be part of a large group? Book a Private Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Tour by clicking here.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque dress code: what should I wear
Both men and women need to dress conservatively with arms and legs covered. Women need to wear a headscarf to cover their hair. It’s ok if some hair is visible, as long as the scarf is over most of your head. Men can purchase a kandora (traditional loose white outfit). Women can buy an abaya (loose hooded robe) in the underground mall before the entrance. Abayas come in a variety of bright colours and look beautiful in photos contrasted against the white of the mosque.
Water / staying hydrated
You cannot bring food or drink into the mosque. There are public drinking fountains inside the complex with lovely fresh cold water. Ask a member of staff if you can’t find them.
Can I visit Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque from Dubai?
If you’re in Dubai, the drive from Dubai to Sheikh Zayed Mosque is about 1 hour 30 minutes. Hiring a car is the easiest way to explore the UAE. Public transport options are limited. It’s possible to hire a taxi (prices subject to change – your hotel should be able to help) or book onto a group tour.
Where are the best photo spots?
Although the mosque is always crowded, it’s easy to get photos without people in them because the central open section of the mosque is roped off. So if you stand by the rope, there will be no one behind you. I visited by myself, but found people who were happy to help me take photos in exchange for me taking photos of them too. Don’t be shy – just ask, as a lot of people will be in the same position!
Outside the mosque itself, I really recommend taking an Uber to Wahat al Karama memorial park. (You can’t walk as it’s on the other side of a big highway). This is where I found my secret photo spot. You can see the mosque silhouetted against the sky and reflected in water. Nobody else was there at all, so I had plenty of time to get the shots. The water is not that obvious at first as it’s really shallow. You’ll know it’s the right place as it feels like an amphitheater with seats around it. Note that this area is exposed to the sun, which is really strong, so make sure to wear sun cream and cover up! And please remember that Wahat al Karama is a memorial park to Emiratis who sacrificed their lives for their country, so be respectful.
What else is there to do?
You can take a combined City Tour with Royal Palace & Sheikh Zayed Mosque, which will allow you to see the highlights of the city with a local guide. This includes hotel pickup and drop-off.
I love to spend time in places of worship when travelling. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque looks beautiful. Thanks for the guide. It will definitely come in handy.