Ever considered visiting Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates? We hear all about the city’s architectural gem, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
This article has been contributed by Karen Warren, a travel writer, book reviewer and novelist. She writes about travel on her site WorldWideWriter.
Introduction
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is the number one sight for any visitor to Abu Dhabi. I think I can honestly say that this is the most impressive building I have ever seen (and, yes, I have been to the Taj Mahal). It is a place of superlatives: big and extravagant, a no-expense-spared feat of modern architecture that calls upon the best of traditional design.
I first saw the Grand Mosque at sunset. Sitting on the terrace of the beautiful Shangri-La Hotel, I watched the sun lighting up the dazzling white minarets. It wasn’t until I saw the mosque close up though, that I really appreciated its magnificence. I visited twice, and it was a different experience each time.
About The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
The Grand Mosque is the largest mosque in the UAE, and the third largest in the world. It was the vision of Sheikh Zayed, the first president of the UAE. He intended it as a fusion of tradition and modernity, a way of showcasing the wealth and forward-looking nature of the new nation. In fact, it was a lengthy project and he died before the mosque opened in 2007. He was buried in a mausoleum in the grounds.
Everything here is immense. The mosque, together with its courtyard and grounds, can accommodate more than 50,000 people, and 7,000 of them can fit into the main prayer hall. There are four minarets, three prayer halls, and 82 domes. It has the largest hand-knotted carpet in the world, made in Iran and weighing 35 tons. And the central chandelier is 10m high and weighs 12 tons!
The building is not just big, but opulent, constructed from the finest materials from around the world. The mosque incorporates marble from 28 countries, as well as gold and semi-precious stones. The chandeliers are of Italian glass with Swarovski crystals. There are Turkish Iznik panels with intricate patterns, and the walls and columns gleam with lapis lazuli and mother of pearl.
A Visit To The Grand Mosque
I first visited the Grand Mosque in 2010. There were only two or three other people there, so I got a real sense of how massive the place was. The prayer hall was cool and quiet, and the peace and the harmony provided a welcome respite from the heat and the bustle of the city.
I walked around the courtyard with its marble mosaic floor, arcades and columns with delicate floral designs. The architecture was remarkable, drawing upon classic Islamic styles with arches, domes and symmetry. At the same time it featured modern building techniques, including an innovative lighting system that reflected the phases of the moon.
My second visit, a few years later, was rather different, and slightly less relaxed. On the plus side, the gardens (still under construction in 2010) were now complete. On the other hand, cruise ships had discovered the mosque and included it in their itineraries. As a result there were considerably more visitors. We were no longer able to roam at will, and had to follow a marked route around the building. It was still impressive and well worth a visit, but not as peaceful as before.
Respecting Tradition
This is one of a handful of mosques in the region where non-Muslim visitors are welcome. However, you do need to respect the tradition, and to act and dress accordingly. You need to consider what to wear in Abu Dhabi. All visitors must wear loose fitting clothes that cover the arms and the legs (I saw a young man refused entrance because his knees were not covered). And you will have to remove your shoes and leave them by the entrance.
In addition, women have to wear an abaya and a headscarf (you can borrow these from the cloakroom at no charge). Surprisingly, I didn’t find this onerous. My bare feet felt cool on the carpet, and I quite enjoyed the anonymity that came from wearing the abaya. It was in keeping with the place, with its copies of the Koran on display, and the 99 names of Allah in fine calligraphy on a wall facing Mecca.
Tips For Visiting The Grand Mosque
The Grand Mosque is open every day from 9 am to 10 pm. However, visiting times are restricted on Fridays and during Ramadan, when worship is taking place. There is no charge for entrance, and free tours are available. Be aware of the dress code when visiting, and make sure you wear shoes that can be removed easily.
Within Abu Dhabi the easiest way to get to the Mosque is by taxi. When you have completed your visit, you will find plenty of taxis waiting outside. If you are visiting from Dubai, the Intercity Bus is very convenient. Alternatively, several companies offer organised day trips, allowing a visit to the Grand Mosque to also be one of the many exciting things to do when visiting Dubai.
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