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A trip to Abu Dhabi would not be complete without a visit to Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, an impressive and inspiring space that is one of the world’s largest mosques and the only one that captures the unique interactions between Islam and other world cultures.
The welcoming mosque’s open-door policy encourages visitors from around the world to not only witness its beauty but also gain a deeper understanding of the emirate’s cultural beliefs in a space that encourages open dialogue.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque can welcome up to 55,000 worshippers and visitors every day. Its 1,096 amethyst-and-jasper-embedded columns, 82 white marble domes, reflective pools, gold-plated Swarovski chandeliers, iconic prayer hall, and courtyard featuring one of the largest marble mosaic artworks in the world make it a stunning place to explore and take photographs.
Next, visit Wahat Al Karama, spanning 46,000sqm and located directly opposite Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. This timeless tribute honours the Emirati martyrs who sacrificed their lives in service of their country and is home to a permanent memorial commemorating the United Arab Emirates’ heroes, including soldiers, police, diplomats and civilians, since 1971.
Soak up the rich culture and take beautiful photographs at the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, then find time to reflect at the thought-provoking Wahat Al Karama tribute.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Stop 2
Recommended Time: 2 hours
When you enter Abu Dhabi's Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, you will understand why it is such a special place. Here, people from all walks of life come together to take in the architecture's beauty and gain a deeper understanding of religion and culture in the United Arab Emirates. The mosque is one of the world's largest and was the vision of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan - the Founding Father of the UAE. He envisaged the creation of a welcoming and cultural haven that inspires people from all backgrounds.
Even the construction was a cultural collaboration. The grand structure was designed and built by skilled teams from all over the world, including 1,300 Iranian artisans who hand-knotted the main prayer hall's carpet - the world's largest.
On your journey through the marbled halls, you'll see one-of-a-kind treasures, including gold-plated Swarovski chandeliers, the courtyard's vast marble mosaic artwork and reflective pools that mirror some of the many amethyst-and-jasper-embedded columns. When you're outside, look up to see the mosque's four stunning minarets that proudly stand at 106 metres.
Wahat Al Karama
Stop 3
Recommended Time: 5 minutes
Spanning 46,000 square metres and located directly opposite Abu Dhabi's world-famous Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Wahat Al Karama is a timeless tribute that honours the Emirati martyrs who sacrificed their lives in service of their country. Wahat Al Karama is home to a permanent memorial commemorating the United Arab Emirates' heroes, including soldiers, police, diplomats and civilians, since 1971.
Operating hours
Visitor center: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Tours booking: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Memorial plaza area: 24 hours
Zayed International Airport
Recommended Time: 1 hours
Zayed International Airport (formerly Abu Dhabi International Airport) serves as a global gateway with over 50 airlines flying to and from approximately 117 destinations across 56 countries. Twice awarded the 'Best Airport in the Middle East' by the World Airport Awards, it's a testament to its exceptional service and facilities.
The airport is conveniently located within a short distance from major Abu Dhabi destinations and Dubai, boasting the spectacular Terminal A, the new hub for Etihad Airways, alongside Terminal 1 which handles many more regional and international flights.