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27things to do
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Visit the Sheikh Zayed Mosquein Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

#1of 27 things to doin Abu Dhabi

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It is a symbol of original Islamic architecture, an example of the unity of all nations and religions.
How to visit the Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Abu Dhabi
This is one of the six largest mosques in the world and one of two mosques in the Emirates, which non-Muslims are allowed to enter. Free tours are 4 times a day. Access is restricted only during prayers.

The snow-white Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Mosque impresses people not only with its grandeur and classical architectural techniques, but also with its unique decoration. You will find yourself among the luxury of interiors, in the decoration of which the variegated crystals, ceramics, semiprecious stones and gold prevail.

Mosque, Abu Dhabi
Photo: © Elaine Williams

Some elements of the decor are registered in the Guinness Book of Records. For example, here is the worlds largest carpet and a set of seven unique chandeliers, one of which had the status of the largest in the world until 2010.

Sheikh Zayed Mosque, Abu Dhabi

How to do?

1. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is located on the 5th Street or Sheikh Rashid bin Zayed Street. If you are going to visit the mosque as part of the tour, you will get here by the tourist bus. But if you are inspired by Oddviser and want to do it without middlemen, get on the city bus at the main bus station. It is located next to the intersection of Hazza bin Zayed Street and Western Road. The shortest path takes 18 minutes (13, 7 km).

Leave the rented car in the parking lot at the southern entrance.

2. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is the place where it is better to go by yourself, as the entry to the mosque and the tour around it is completely free. At the eastern entrance you will see the inscription "Tour Starts Here". Groups are forming here approximately 15 minutes before the start of the tour.

Mosque, Abu Dhabi

3. During the tour you can take a closer look at the masterful finish, decorated with leaf gold, ceramic, marble and Swarovski crystals. The guide will tell you about the history of Islam and the mosque - how it was created, including peculiar elements of the decor.

Columnes in the mosque, Abu Dhabi

Inside the mosque, Abu Dhabi

When to do?

Excursions are held from Sunday to Thursday - 10:00, 11:00, 17:00, on Fridays - 16:30 and 20:00, on Saturdays - 10:00, 11:00, 17:00, 20:00.

The time of excursion is 45 minutes.

Tips and hints

Before entering the mosque you need to take off your shoes and wash your feet in a special room. That's why in order not to create a "jam-up" at the entrance, put on something that can be quickly removed, for example, slip-on sneakers.

Women at the entrance will be given abaya - a traditional Muslim dress that covers the body from head to foot, but you can come to the place in clothes that cover your hands and feet and with a head covered with a shawl. Men, too, should give preference to closed clothing - no shorts and sleeveless jackets.

Turn off the sound of your mobile phone. If there are food, water or cigarettes, do not even take them out.

Do not forget to bring your camera. You can take pictures everything here, except the mausoleum of the creator of the mosque.

Tours & excursions 1

#2Abu Dhabi City Tour from DubaiAbu Dhabi City Tour from Dubai

Explore the rich past and the vibrant present of Abu Dhabi, the largest and the capital emirate of United Arab Emirates.

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Guest28 March 2024

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Photo credit © Wei Chong Pang