Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
82 domes of pure white marble, glowing in golden hour.
Overview
One of the largest mosques in the world, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque holds 40,000 worshippers across 82 domes and 1,000+ columns. Inside: 24-carat gold-plated chandeliers and the world's largest hand-knotted carpet. Free entry for all visitors outside prayer times.
Traveller information
Visa support available for tourists and UAE residents bringing guests.
UAE Dirham (AED). Cards are accepted almost everywhere.
Arabic and English are widely spoken.
Excellent halal dining access across every emirate.
Very safe, with strict rules around public conduct and driving.
Private driver recommended for emirate-to-emirate touring.
History & heritage
Conceived by Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father of the UAE, as a place that would bring together Islamic traditions from around the world. He is buried on the grounds.
- 1996
Sheikh Zayed commissions the design
- 2007
Construction completed
- 2008
Public opening
- 2010
World's largest hand-knotted carpet (Guinness)
Insider tips
- Visit on a weekday morning to avoid weekend crowds
- Free abayas provided at entrance — dress code is strict
- Photography is permitted everywhere except during prayer
- The carpet is the world's largest single carpet at 5,627 sq metres
- Free guided tours run every hour
Nearby attractions
Louvre Abu Dhabi
30 min
Qasr Al Watan
20 min
Corniche Beach
15 min
Frequently asked questions
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