If you haven’t been out to that gigantic work of architectural art, Sheikh Zayed Mosque, you really must. Here are the five best reasons why.
1: Stunning photos
Though just 20 years old (and open for only the last four), this genuinely magnificent structure rivals such international wonders as the Taj Mahal. Open to visitors every day but Friday, this is one of the few mosques in the world open to the general public that allows photography.
2: Free tours
Sunday to Thursday at 10am, tour guides are on offer to show you around the mosque and explain its significance. These informative, friendly people are eager to answer any questions you may have about the mosque, Abu Dhabi, and Islam in general. An excellent introduction to the fundamentals of the culture.
3: Dressing up
Though everyone is welcome, visitors are required to dress properly. To this end, the good folks at the mosque provide shaylas and abayas (all fresh from the cleaners) for ladies and optional khandooras for men. A photo of yourself in local garb is a must.
4: International significance
What may be the largest mosque outside Saudi Arabia, Sheikh Zayed Mosque is home to some truly spectacular artistry. The carpet in the men’s prayer room, for example, is the largest single carpet in the world, able to accommodate up to 9,000 worshippers. 5: Sheikh Zayed’s tomb Whether you’ve lived in Abu Dhabi for 30 years or you’re just passing through, you should seriously consider making the trip to the mosque just to pay your respects to the founder of the UAE. Though you’re not allowed to leave flowers or other tokens of admiration, it’s good to take a moment to remember the man that may go down as the greatest Arab ruler in history.
5: Sheikh Zayed’s tomb
Whether you’ve lived in Abu Dhabi for 30 years or you’re just passing through, you should seriously consider making the trip to the mosque just to pay your respects to the founder of the UAE. Though you’re not allowed to leave flowers or other tokens of admiration, it’s good to take a moment to remember the man that may go down as the greatest Arab ruler in history.
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