when to visit abu dhabi mosque

12 TIPS For Visiting Sheikh Zayed Mosque Abu Dhabi in 2024

Categories Middle East , UAE

Looking to visit Abu Dhabi’s famous mosque?! Here’s my guide to visiting Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in 2024 with lots of tips on visiting hours, how to dress, the best time to visit and how to get there from Dubai & Abu Dhabi!

Sheikh Zayed Mosque is by far one of the most impressive mosques in the world and you don’t have to be interested in religion to appreciate and marvel at this beautiful building!

Out of the tourist attractions in Abu Dhabi , Sheikh Zayed Mosque is top of the list and it’s also one of the top excursions from Dubai because even a trip to Dubai isn’t complete without heading to see Abu Dhabi’s largest mosque!

Visiting Sheikh Zayed Mosque

In this Abu Dhabi travel blog, I will give you up-to-date information on how to visit Sheikh Zayed Mosque because many things have changed in the last few years including the need for (free) QR tickets now , female cover-ups are no longer provided and the new photography limits .

I actually wrote this article back in 2017 for WeAreTravelGirls with my tips for visiting the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque but most of these tips are really outdated now so keep reading this Sheikh Zayed Mosque travel guide!

Even if you have been to Sheikh Zayed Mosque before, please keep reading so you know what to expect now as I was taken by surprise during my recent visit this Spring!

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1. Sheikh Zayed Mosque Visiting Times

When planning your Abu Dhabi itinerary, or Dubai itinerary to Sheikh Zayed Mosque, the main thing to keep in mind is the visiting times of Sheikh Zayed Mosque , especially on Fridays.

The mosque is open for all visitors from Saturday to Thursday 09:00 am to 10:00 pm with the last admission being at 09:30 pm.

On Fridays , the mosque is open for all visitors from 09:00 am to 12:00 pm (with the last admission at 11:30 am) and then reopens from 3:00 pm. to 10:00 pm (with the last admission being at 09:30 pm).

If you know you are visiting the UAE during the holy month of Ramadan (this will be in March in 2024), check the opening times for tourists during Ramadan here .

Why does Sheikh Zayed Mosque close on Fridays?

The mosque closes for a few hours on Friday because Friday is the holy day in Islam and Friday prayers happen just after lunchtime. This is a very busy part of the day with worshippers visiting and therefore is closed to tourists.

What time is Jummah Prayer at Sheikh Zayed Mosque?

If you are Muslim, I’d really recommend visiting Sheikh Zayed Mosque for Friday prayer. Check the current prayer times at Sheikh Zayed Mosque here .

I believe Jummah prayer is at 1:15 pm at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque however you’ll need to give yourself time to enter. If you are Muslim, Friday at Jummah Prayer is the best time to visit the mosque as its the only time you can take photos in the main courtyard as usually it is sectioned off with security manning it.

2. Sheikh Zayed Mosque Dress Code

In some ways, the dress code for Sheikh Zayed mosque has become looser in the last few years however men and women still need to dress appropriately for the mosque.

RELATED POST: WHAT TO WEAR IN ABU DHABI AS A WOMAN

Previously, women were given black abaya’s to wear as they entered and these had to be worn unless you were wearing an actual abaya you brought yourself.

Sheikh Zayed Mosque no longer provide abaya’s and scarfs to women so you need to come with the correct clothing to be allowed entry.

How to Dress in Sheikh Zayed Mosque

Women MUST wear a scarf over their head to cover their hair. It’s ok for this to be loose and not cover all the hair but you must keep it on top of your head and not let it fall around your shoulders only.

Women MUST have their chest covered, their shoulders covered and their arms covered . Realistically, 3/4 sleeves are ok but t-shirt sleeves are not.

Women MUST have their legs covered . Again realistically, 3/4 covered in the leg is ok with the ankle and bottom of calf showing.

Men MUST have their arms covered down . T-shirts for men are not allowed, a 3/4 sleeve is ok.

Men MUST have their legs covered . Shorts for men are not allowed. Below the knee must be covered so 3/4 lengths are ok.

Outfits MUST NOT be see-through, too tight, have slits or be too ‘sexy’.

Where to buy clothes for visiting Sheikh Zayed Mosque?

The great thing is that the mall underneath the Sheikh Zayed mosque sells everything you’ll need to be properly covered in the mosque for men and women at a reasonable price.

The mall on Google is called: New Visitor Center & Plaza at Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque  

One of the benefits to women no longer being provided an abaya by the mosque is that women can now buy a cultural outfit in the UAE and wear it. Bright coloured abaya’s and bright full length dresses are perfect and it’s really nice to see women embracing the local clothing to the mosque.

This is also the case with men. In the UAE local men wear a Kandora which is typically a long white outfit with loose white pants/trousers underneath. During the 2022 World Cup in Qatar we saw men from around the world wear the Qatari version and compliment how light and airy they are to wear.

I saw many foreign tourist men during my 3 recent visits to Abu Dubai & Dubai wearing a Kandora because they are perfect for entering a mosque, wearing in the desert, and staying cool in the heat (this is why locals wear them after all!). Men can buy Kandora’s inside the mall underneath the Sheikh Zayed Mosque too.

Looking to visit Sheikh Zayed from Dubai?? Here are some top tours!

3. Sheikh Zayed Mosque Tickets

In recent years it’s become mandatory to book your visit to Sheikh Zayed Mosque meaning you need to complete this form and get a QR code before entering.

The tickets for Sheikh Zayed Mosque are free , but you still need to book and get a QR code.

Complete this official form with your entry date and time and all the guest details. I didn’t realise this when I visited so I completed the form just as I entered . This was ok for me as I was just one person and there in the hot summer months, however on busy days they do restrict the numbers.

If you are visiting Abu Dhabi during the winter and therefore in ‘peak season’ and if you want to visit at sunset which is the most popular time of day to visit, I’d recommend booking in advance to ensure you get the time and date you want!

Complete this official form!

4. Best Time of Day to Visit Sheikh Zayed Mosque

Easily, the best time of day to visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is just before sunset .

If you get to the mosque about 1 hour to 30 minutes before sunset you’ll get to see the mosque with blue skies , you’ll then hear the sunset call to prayer , see the mosque with sunset skies and finally with nighttime skies .

There are benches to sit on outside of the mosque so you can easily have a break on these whilst you want for the skies to change.

Sunset going into the evening is also the coolest time of day and another one of the reasons its the best time to visit Sheikh Zayed Mosque.

However, sunset is one of the most busy times of day because of the draw of the sky colours and Muslims coming to pray sunset prayer.

If you’re not into photos and getting all the sky colours, I’d recommend visiting early in the morning after it opens at 9:00 am . This is another one of the coolest times of day and the mosque is likely to be less busy with visitors and those wanting to pray as the next prayer time isn’t until lunchtime.

5. Getting to Sheikh Zayed Mosque From Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is a big city and not everything is close together and Sheikh Zayed Mosque isn’t particularly close to any other tourist attractions so it’s best to plan your visit within your itinerary .

RELATED POST: 40 THINGS TO DO IN ABU DHABI!

It’s about a 30 minute drive from popular places like Yas Island, Emirates Palace, Qasr al Watan, and the Louvre to Sheikh Zayed Mosque, maybe 40-45 minutes with traffic.

When planning your Abu Dhabi itinerary, I’d recommend visiting the mosque on the same day you visit other cultural places such as the impressive Palace – Qasr al Watan, the traditional Fort Qasr al Hosn and the Louvre Abu Dhabi.

What’s the best way to get around Abu Dhabi?

If you are a family or group, I’d recommend hiring a car to get around Abu Dhabi. If you are solo or not confident hiring a car, it’s easy to use taxi apps such as Kareem and Uber to get around Abu Dhabi (I prefer Kareem).

Search for car hire in Abu Dhabi here with the top brands!

There’s also a tourist shuttle bus between the popular tourist sites but you will need to play your itinerary around the bus schedule.

6. Getting to Sheikh Zayed Mosque from Dubai

The drive from Dubai to Sheikh Zayed Mosque is about 1 hour 30 minutes , more with traffic. It seems a lot, especially if you have a packed Dubai itinerary for your holiday, but it is worth it and you can visit more places in Abu Dhabi at the same time!

Unfortunately, there are limited public transport options between Dubai and Abu Dhabi , especially for just a day trip so your best options are:

• Join a group tour from Dubai like these ones :

This tour from Dubai to Abu Dhabi is the most rated and most highly rated!

• Drive yourself – unless you are a solo traveller in Dubai in which case a tour is the best option, I’d recommend hiring a car and driving to Abu Dhabi. This will give you the freedom to see more of the city and the roads are very big in the UAE and easy to navigate.

Search for car hire in Dubai with all the top brands here!

• Take a Taxi – this is something your hotel in Dubai can organise for you. I did this several years ago and it cost £50.00 each way. I imagine it is more expensive now.

7. Sheikh Zayed Mosque Free Tour

If you want to know more about Abu Dhabi’s famous mosque, I recommend joining one of their free cultural tours that are held regularly throughout the day.

The tours last 30 – 45 minutes and are ran by staff at the mosque. (If you visit Sheikh Zayed mosque on a tour from Dubai, you won’t get a guide inside the mosque like this)

Check out the morning, afternoon and evening cultural tour times here .

Sheikh Zayed Mosque facts are abundant and the architecture is incredible which you can learn more about on this tour as well as learning some facts on Islam and how the mosque operates.

8. Sheikh Zayed Mosque Photo Spots

One of the biggest tips I’ll give you for visiting the Sheikh Zayed Mosque is to not expect a surreal and peaceful experience .. unfortunately.

I’ve been multiple times and each time I’ve had a guard tell me off for where I’m standing, or even twirling, I recently got told off for twirling for a photo because it looked like dancing and although they need to do their jobs, it does leave you with a bad impression… and I’m saying that as a now Muslim !

Taking photos in Sheikh Zayed Mosque is very restricted because you are not allowed inside the main courtyard and recently, some of the pillar areas have been restricted to.

There are many dedicated photo spots which get filled with many people and this can be frustrating, although also understandable.

One of the only positives of this is that you can manage to get photos with fewer people in the background . For example the below photo of the pillars is clear of people only because the whole area behind it has been fenced off.

How to get a photo of Sheikh Zayed Mosque with water in front?

You might have seen impressive photos like the photos below of Sheikh Zayyed Mosque with water in front . The good news is, this is not AI, this photo is real!

This location location is across the road though, it’s not part of the mosque as it can seem like in some photos, and it’s a stadium with a wide water pond. The location is Wahat al Karama which has 3 war memorials.

It’s very close to the mosque but I remember being so tired and hot all of my visits that I’ve never actually made the effort to go!

For Sheikh Zayed Mosque photography, Wahat al Karama is the best place to visit , especially at sunset to get the reflection of the mosque in the water.

9. Visiting Sheikh Zayed Mosque on Fridays

If you plan to visit Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque on a Friday and you are not Muslim, it is worth noting that the Sheikh Zayed Mosque visiting times on Friday are 09:00 am to 12:00 pm (with the last admission at 11:30 am), then again from 3:00 pm. to 10:00 pm (with the last admission being at 09:30 pm).

For non Muslim visitors, if you can visit outside of Friday’s this is best because although the Mosque reopens later after the required Friday prayers at lunchtime, Friday is an important day for Muslims and you’ll find more people come to pray at sunset and in the evening on Fridays than other days of the week.

If you are Muslim, Friday is a great day to visit Sheikh Zayed Mosque and I recommend attending for Jummah Prayer. I believe Jummah Prayer at Sheikh Zayed Mosque starts at 1:15 pm and make sure you give yourself time to get there, park and get through security.

10. Sheikh Zayed Mosque Videography Limitations

There is a lot of security outside and inside of the mosque keeping an eye on what visitors are doing.

I was filming with my camera and mic recently outside of the mosque for a vlog and after I’d finished the security guard asked me to stop . A few minutes later one of the mosque staff found me to ask what I was filming.

Because they saw me use my camera and mic with a vlog setup, they advised I needed permission to film, even though I told them it was only for YouTube.

However, if I was filming the same thing with my phone only, I doubt they would have stopped me because it could have been a personal recording or a media one, they don’t know.

So I would advise definitely leaving your mic at the hotel and only bring a big camera if you intend to take photos on it.

If you want to do professional filming, you’ll need to get permission.

11. Places to Visit Near Sheikh Zayed Mosque

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque isn’t that close to many of the other tourist attractions in Abu Dhabi, although to be honest that’s both Abu Dhabi and Dubai for you, everything is a bit far from everything.

Some places to visit near Sheikh Zayed Mosque though are:

• New Visitor Center & Plaza at Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque 
• Bani Qasim Mosque – this looks like the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem!
• Abu Dhabi History Museum and Aquarium
• Khalifa Park
• Wahat Al Karama

12. Sheikh Zayed Mosque Mall

A fairy new addition to the area is the underground Mall and Plaza called New Visitor Center & Plaza at Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque  on Google Maps.

You can access the mosque from inside this underground mall instead of crossing the main road and they have many food and clothing shops to get the modest clothing you need for the mosque and get something to eat before or after.

I actually had time to spare before sunset so I got a manicure and pedicure here at Ponytail Beauty who I recommend!

I hope this has helped you with visiting Sheikh Zayed Mosque!

• For more of my Abu Dhabi and Dubai posts see:
• 40 AMAZING Things To Do in Abu Dhabi
• What To Wear in Abu Dhabi & Dress Code in Abu Dhabi For Tourists
• 5 Must-Try Yas Waterworld Rides in Abu Dhabi!
• 8 Things To Do In Al Ain | Day Trip From Abu Dhabi or Dubai!
• 10+ BEST Excursions from Dubai & Day Trips from Dubai!
• Your PERFECT 5 Day Dubai Itinerary

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How to visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi

Not only is it one of the most architecturally magnificent buildings in the world, but it is also an active house of worship accommodating up to 41,000 people.  The Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi is also the resting place of the Founding Father of the United Arab Emirates, the  Late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al-Nahyan “May Allah rest his soul in peace” .

Located at the entrance to the city on Abu Dhabi island, it’s hard to miss the Grand Mosque with its pristine white walls, domes and minarets during the day.  Or maybe you prefer its soft nighttime glow and awe-inspiring silhouette?  It is undoubtedly a modern wonder.

So how do you visit the Grand Mosque? 

You can book an Abu Dhabi tour from Dubai with a visit to Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque including a visit to other tourist attractions. Alternatively, if you just want to explore Abu Dhabi Grand Mosque we recommend you to book Abu Dhabi Grand Mosque tour only. A private tour will allow you plenty of time to explore at your own pace and is the best option if this is your first time in Abu Dhabi.

Interesting facts to know about the Grand Mosque

General tips for visiting the shiekh zayed grand mosque, tips for visiting the grand mosque with young kids, wahat al karama memorial, tip for photographing the grand mosque, where to stay in abu dhabi for the best views of the grand mosque, how to get to the grand mosque, grand mosque opening hours & tour times, learn more about visiting abu dhabi and the uae.

• The Grand Mosque has been open for worship since 2007.  The Mosque was built to honour the country’s Founding Father, considered a visionary leader who believed nothing was impossible.
• Sheikh Zayed is in fact laid to rest on the Grand Mosque site. His mausoleum is in a separate building outside the main mosque complex, (out of respect no photos are allowed here).
• Muslim worshipers actively use the Grand Mosque throughout the week, accommodating 10,000 in the internal and 31,000 in the external areas – they reach capacity during Ramadan & Eid celebrations.
• There were more than 38 contractors and thousands of workers from around the world involved in completing various elements of the structure and decoration. Sourcing long-lasting materials and expert craftsmanship were of paramount importance.
• The architectural style is made from a combination of Mamluk, Ottoman and Fatimid styles – described as “A fusion of Arab, Persian, Mughal and Moorish” to fuse the diverse Islamic world with art and beauty – the result is simply stunning.
• It holds several “ largest in the world ” claims to fame – including the largest hand-woven carpet at a whopping 5,627 sqm and the largest marble mosaic floor in its 17,000 sqm courtyard.
• A recent TripAdvisor survey ranked the Grand Mosque as the second most popular landmark in the world, only behind Machu Picchu in Peru.

• The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is open to the public seven days a week from 9am until 10pm (only closed Friday’s 12:00pm to 3:00 for prayers) – we recommend you get in as early as possible in the day to avoid the heat and inevitable crowds.
• Entrance is FREE, you must only pass through security screening.
• Do note systems have recently changed and you do need to register to enter the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, but there is no charge.
• Respectful dress must be worn inside the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque grounds at all times.  For everyone, this means long trousers and for women, arms and head must also be covered.
• If you are not well enough covered, there is a dressing room available at security before entering the Mosque grounds.  Women can hire abayas (full-length robes) or shaylas  (a head covering only) free of charge here.
• Men with shorts above the knee may also be asked to hire a Kandura – white long-sleeved robe.
• NB – clothing rental has been suspended during COVID – you’ll need to bring your own respectful covering or buy one at the small souq attached to the mosque.

• Try and arrive in time for a free guided tour . Conducted in English or Arabic by fabulously well-versed Emirati volunteers, they will talk you through many of the important architectural features of the building and answer any of your questions. Due to popular demand, there are now multiple free tours per day of either 30 minutes or 45-minute duration; see timings below.
• You must be present before the tour start time to receive your headsets, so arrive in plenty of time – you can freely tour the rest of the Mosque and grounds after your tour.
• There is now a FREE audio eGuide you can pick up to accompany you on your tour around the mosque, available in 11 languages (you must leave a photo ID).
• There is a small coffee and gift shop on the grounds, but no food or drinks are allowed inside the Grand Mosque itself. Feeding children outside the main courtyard is fine.
• There are a number of luxury hotels nearby where you can get excellent meals (the Ritz Carlton , Hilton Capital Grand) , or cheaper options not far away include Zayed Sports City, Holiday Inn  or the Officer’s Club where restaurants are open to the public.
• More on how to get there from Abu Dhabi and Dubai below.

We have taken our young children to the Grand Mosque on many different occasions and at many different ages. And it is honestly hard work.

Small children have little patience for architectural marvelling.  Unlike many sites in the Middle East where children can freely explore, the Grand Mosque is carefully guarded and rules must be adhered to; there is no swinging on ropes, inside voices must be used, and touching many parts of the building is strictly NOT allowed – all with good reason! It is, after all, a place of holy significance, not just a tourist attraction.

But the Grand Mosque is a must-not-miss attraction of the UAE.   How do you find some balance and harmony to make your Grand Mosque trip worthwhile for you all?

• Around the courtyard, grounds, and the outer perimeter of the Grand Mosque , surfaces are flat and it’s easy to manoeuvre a stroller.  You cannot, however, take your strollers onto the mosque’s carpeted floor. 
• Strollers must be parked outside where everyone takes off their shoes before entering, and you’ll need to carry your valuables.
• Once inside, there are several roped-off areas where children cannot go.  For little wanderers, you may want reins  or a sling to carry your smaller ones as they do not take fondly to people crossing over the roped line.
• A slow walk around the inside may take upwards of 15-20 minutes if you’re a details person.
• Young children do not need to be covered , but it’s advisable for children from adolescence onward to be covered in the same way as adults – full arms and legs, and also head for women.
• Women and men have separate entrances, but your group can rejoin immediately after. Young boys can go with their mothers.
• Your robes must be respectfully worn for the duration of your visit once inside the courtyard walls, avoiding exposed skin (easier said than done when children are tugging off you, I know).

( Top tip – if you really fancy the idea of dressing up and experiencing part of the local culture, then you can deliberately come with uncovered legs to be sent to the clothing hire room – there is no problem or shame with this)

Extend your trip to the Grand Mosque by also visiting Wahat Al Karama – translated “oasis of dignity” . The 45,000 sqm monument is located across the freeway from the Grand Mosque, next door to the Ritz Hotel and the General Headquarters of the UAE Armed Forces.  The site is a permanent tribute and war memorial to honour the UAE’s martyred soldiers and other Emiratis who sacrificed their lives for the service of the nation.

The site includes a Memorial with distinctive aluminium-clad slabs resting on one another, a Memorial Plaza with a beautiful reflective pool and a Pavillion of Honour. Open 9am to 10.45pm daily.

Free entrance.

• Absolute number 1 rule; remain respectful of where you are at all time.  Group shots are not allowed; wandering onto the central courtyard without permission is not allowed; Gratuitous selfies are just plain inappropriate.  Remember it’s first and foremost a house of worship.
• It can be hard work, especially on the ladies trying to get the right pose (for your camera, not your selfie) but not reveal your skin! Wearing something long under your abaya will reduce accidental reveals.
• For the best chance of getting a crowd-free shot, you must be there for the opening time at 9am. Late evenings after Isha (final prayers) it can be quieter too for some moody reflective shots.
• From up close, it’s really hard to get everything in one shot! If you don’t have a wide-angle lens, you may need to use panorama or stitch features if your smartphone or camera has these.
• There are many reflective ponds that you can use to catch the light at its best.
• Play with the detail; there is so much detail that often gets overlooked in favour of the grand shots! Check out the intricate marble work, the archways, the stain-glassed windows. The light will play with you no matter the time of day.
• For the best distance shots, head to Wahat Al Karama. Either drive or taxi over (the roads are a little complicated!) or if parked at the Mosque, head to the front by foot and you’ll find a footbridge that takes you across the freeway to the war memorial.  Not only will you get to observe another part of the UAE’s very recent history, but you will also get some of the best views of the Grand Mosque over the stunning reflective pond.
• Golden hour is, of course, the best time – but evenings are very busy.  If you are enthusiastic and really want that plum shot, get up early and head to Wahat Al Karama at dawn on a clear day (though those can be few and far between, most mornings you will find a little haze and slightly grey skies).
• In the winter, you can get fogs too, making wonderful moody photos that are very hard to predict and capture.
• Be prepared for the humidity in the warmer summer months. Using a DSLR?  Let your camera warm-up before you are ready to shoot, keeping the lens cap on until you are ready.
• Beware of others in your photos, local ladies particularly should not be photographed without permission.

The closest hotel and the only one that is really walking distance if the weather is cool enough is T h e Ritz Carlton .  This imposing hotel is immediately over the freeway connected by the pedestrian bridge to Wahat Al Karama.  It’s also one of our top recommended stays for families with its restaurants and facilities if budget permits.

The best distance views of the Mosque are captured from Bab al Bahr, where there are several hotels, including the Fairmont , Traders Hotel and the Shangri-La.   When staying at these hotels you will likely be charged more for a waterside/mosque view room but waking up to see this stunning beauty?  Completely worth it!

Check out this detailed guide to  all the best places to stay in Abu Dhabi if you are travelling as a family

From any hotel in central Abu Dhabi or from Yas Island it is an easy taxi drive, and plentiful drivers wait in the taxi ranks to take you to your next destination.

Visiting the Grand Mosque from Dubai

Even if you are staying in Dubai, the Grand Mosque is still frequently suggested as part of an itinerary.  Note that you are just over 1 hour drive without heavy traffic from Downtown Dubai to the Mosque.  You can hire a taxi (looking at 300AED roughly), a private car (slightly more depending on size/quality of vehicle), or look into joining a shared organized tour.

Our complete guide on how to transit between Dubai and Abu Dhabi can be found here

Below are some of our Get Your Guide partner suggestions for tour companies.

Can you visit the Grand Mosque during an AUH stopover?

If you are squeezing in a visit between flights from Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH), it’s only a 15-20 minute drive away by taxi.  Allow yourself at least a 4-hour stopover with time to clear immigration at both ends. An airport taxi adds a 25AED flag fall, so expect a taxi to the Mosque to cost about 60-65AED.  Your return taxi will be about 40AED. There is a taxi rank at the Grand Mosque.

If you are on a budget and coming from AUH via bus, the closest stopping point for the A1 route is at Zayed Sports City.  The fare at the time of writing is 4AED per person one way.  It’s then approximately a 15-20 minute walk back to the Grand Mosque – not recommended in the summer heat but you may be able to catch a shorter taxi ride from ZSC to the Grand Mosque.

You can see our complete Abu Dhabi Stopover guide here

As of 2022, the opening time for tourists to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque are:

Saturday to Thursday :

• Open from 9am – 10pm (last admission 9.30pm)
• Tours commence on the hour 10am to 8pm
• Open from 9:00am to 12:00 pm and 3:00pm – 10pm (last admission 9.30pm)
• Tours on the hour 10am, 11am, then at 4pm through until 8pm

*Timings are always subject to change in the UAE and hours will vary for Ramadan and other religious occasions – please consult the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Center for current information*

We recommend you start with our Abu Dhabi with Kids home page . Next up are some top reads to help you plan your trip:

• 40+ Free (and really cheap) things to do in Abu Dhabi
• 50+ Fantastic Things to do in Abu Dhabi with Kids
• How to plan your visit to the Louvre Abu Dhabi
• Touring Qasr al Watan – the UAE’s Presidential Palace
• Top cultural sites in Abu Dhabi you won’t want to miss
• Visiting Historic Al Ain, the Oasis City of Abu Dhabi
• Your complete guide to things to do in Abu Dhabi emirate

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Have you visited the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi?  What were your highlights or top tips for families? 

  Take me back to the United Arab Emirates home page

This post was originally published on Our Globetrotters - Adventurous Family Travel Blog (last revised and updated August 2022). Researched and written by our editor Keri Hedrick, an avid traveller, writer and mum of 3 based in the UAE for the past 10 years; you can see more of Keri’s regional and overseas adventures with kids on Instagram .  This article is not sponsored or endorsed by any of the businesses mentioned but does contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission. 

The Family Travel in the Middle East team of travel writers are all parents based in the Middle East, sharing first hand experiences and reviews from across the region to help you plan your next family adventure.

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How to do an abu dhabi stopover, 45+ abu dhabi indoor activities for kids, planning your visit to the louvre abu …, does abu dhabi have all-inclusive resorts.

Sheikh Zayed Mosque is part of my tour when friends and family come to visit me in Dubai. I’ve been a few times now but still learnt more from your post. Some of those numbers are incredible. 41,000 worshippers at one time, wow, and I wasn’t aware the carpet was hand knotted. It certainly makes an impression. Thanks, Keri!

Tips For Visiting Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque – A Must See In Abu Dhabi

Jayne Gorman

February 24, 2022

There is one place you absolutely can’t miss when visiting Abu Dhabi and that’s the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. This phenomenal work of architecture is the largest place of worship in the UAE and it is absolutely spellbinding.

I’ve been lucky enough to travel to Abu Dhabi twice – the first time in 2016 and again in February 2022 – and each time visiting the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque has been the highlight of the trip. If you’re planning a visit, here are my (recently updated) top tips.

(This post was originally published in Oct 2016 and has been updated in February 2023.)

Some fascinating fast facts about Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

• Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is the largest mosque in the UAE and can hold up to 40,000 worshippers and 15,000 visitors.
• The mosque was commissioned by, and named after, the first president of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who passed away before the mosque’s completion. The mausoleum of the late Sheikh Zayed is located beside the mosque on the north side.
• The mosque’s architects were British, Italian and Emirati who drew inspiration from Muslim architecture from all around the world to create something truly unique. It took more than 3,000 workers from 38 construction companies to build it.
• My research (googling) hinted that it cost in excess of $500 million to complete.
• There are seven crystal chandeliers made by Faustig (from Munich, Germany) situated inside the halls and foyers, including the largest ever chandelier to be found in a mosque – it weighs approximately 12 tonnes!

>> Looking for somewhere chic to stay in Abu Dhabi – check out the Abu Dhabi EDITION <<

Tips for visiting Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Opening hours at sheikh zayed grand mosque.

• Normal visiting hours are from Saturday to Thursday 09:00 am to 10:00 pm (Last admission at 09:30 pm).
• On Friday Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is open from 09:00am to 12:00pm (Last admission at 11:30 am) and reopens from 3:00 pm. to 10:00 pm (Last admission at 09:30 pm).
• Visiting hours are different during the holy month of Ramadan. You can find the schedule here .
• You can join a number of free tours each day on a walk-in basis. Look for the tours point near the mosque’s main entrance.

Where To Get Tickets

It is free to visit the mosque but you are required to pre-book an access pass here .

What To Wear

I think the most asked question, especially for women, is what to wear to the Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi. This image from the official website explains the dress code clearly.

Essentially, you are required to dress respectably to visit the mosque – this means long, loose fitting, ankle length trousers or skirts for both men and women and a headscarf for the ladies.

Dress code for women

On my first visit I was able to hire an Abaya from the mosque but this is not currently available. There are a number of both affordable plain abayas (from 50 AED) and beautiful decorative ones available to buy in the visitor centre that you pass through on your way to the mosque. There are also changing rooms and lockers here so you can get changed before or after your visit.

As I didn’t have anything in my wardrobe that matched the dress code I ordered a jersey full length kaftan from Amazon before arriving in Abu Dhabi. I used a scarf to cover my head. The mosque attendant said it was perfect!

Best Time To Visit

I’d read online to visit at dusk (approx 4.30pm depending on time of year) for glorious lighting and this was superb advice. It was magical to see the white minarets against both the sharp blue sky and the soft pink light of sunset. We stayed long enough to see the lights come on and call of prayer ring out and I recommend you time your visit to do the same.

>> See also Top 10 Things To Do In Abu Dhabi   <<

Where to get the best photos of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

There are designated photo points around the mosque where you are allowed to stop and take photos. It was very quiet during our visit so I didn’t mind having to use the fixed photo points, however, it does make it quite hard to get photos that are different to everyone else.

Wahat Al Karama

The best place to get photos of the exterior of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is from Wahat Al Karama – a viewpoint and memorial that offers stunning views of the mosque’s domes and minarets, plus an amphitheatre where you can take a seat and watch sunset over one of the world’s most famous religious buildings.

You can reach Wahat Al Karama via a free shuttle bus from the mosque that runs approximately every 30 minutes. You can also walk there via a pedestrian bridge (approx 15 mins) or take a local taxi. (The minimum fare is 12 AED and local taxis accept cash only.)

Things To Note

• If you visit during the summer (or end of summer like we did) then it will be exceptionally warm to walk around the outside areas. However, the prayer halls are (impressively) well air-conditioned and there are several water fountains around the mosque that you can take advantage of.
• The visitor entrance to the mosque takes you via an underground mall where you’ll find cafes, shops, rest rooms and visitor information.
• And finally, I recommend giving yourself approx 3 hours to travel to and explore the mosque thoroughly. It’s an incredibly large complex to explore and there will be much you will want to photograph and admire. It also takes a fair bit of time to enter the mosque itself – the visitor centre is on the far side of the car park and the underground walkway to the mosque is so long they have moving walkways! There are buggies that can whisk you along this walkway if you have mobility issues.

Have you visited the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi? What did you think?

Disclosure: My second visit to Abu Dhabi was in collaboration with Visit Abu Dhabi for an Instagram campaign. This post is not part of the project & reflects my own thoughts and opinions.

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I’m Jayne, a travel blogger, content creator and mum to a 4-year-old son. I’ve been blogging since 2010, travelled to 65 countries and share travel guides and tips to help you plan stylish, stress-free trips.

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Abu dhabi versus dubai – which is better for a holiday, 18 thoughts on “tips for visiting sheikh zayed grand mosque – a must see in abu dhabi”.

These photos are overwhelmingly beautiful Jayne.

What an experience, Janey, and beautiful photos to match. Great information regarding opening times and what to wear. This would be my major concerns. It’s good to know you can hire clothes if needed and what you need to bring in order to do so. I have only faint memories of Morocco (I was 6) but I remember the call to prayer of the muezzins and I find it’s one of the sweetest things you can hear when in a Muslim country. Hopefully I will be able to have a closer look at Dubai one day rather than just buzzing through.

When I was a little girl Jayne, my mum would tell me stories about the Muezzin calling the faithful to prayer and because of her stories, the magic of hearing it for the first time in Dubai, brought my mum with me on a magical journey to this mesmerizing and intriguing land. Where I know in her heart, when alive, she would have loved to visit the Grand Mosque. So thank you for the post and the connection to my childhood! 🙂 I’m a little different to that – my heart was stolen by the Burj Al Arab the first time I saw it when I was 21, whilst standing on empty golden sandy shores, before the area became built up. Eating a sharwama was also one of my favourite things to do! You’ve brought so much back to life…

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Very useful information, thanks ma’am.

Wow Jayne, I was engrossed with this article. So wonderful to learned something about the culture and history of the place.

Really helpful! Thanks 🙂

Hi Jayne, thanks so much for the helpful info. I was a little confused about the available times. Can you clarify the story and end times Sun-Thur as I saw two dashes.

Hi, you can double-check the timings on the mosque’s website here https://www.szgmc.gov.ae/en/mosque-opening-hours

Thanks a lot for your in-depth review and Tipps! I’ll be traveling to Abu Dhabi this weekend and initially planned to visit on Friday. As Ramadan has started today I am really glad I read your article! I will now plan it for Thursday or Saturday. Won’t be able to see it at sunset though due to Ramadan – so do you think going early in the morning is the best alternative then?

I’d say in terms of weather that would be your best choice. It’s beautiful all day really but the less hot it gets the longer you’ll want to explore haha

I visited this saturday at 9 am and it was totally gorgeous! Quick side note: they did not ask for anything for the gown rental – so I think they have changed their policy on this! 🙂

Ah glad you enjoyed your visit Sarah and thanks for the update on the gown rental.

This place is exquisite. Beautiful. I am visiting Abu Dhabi end of November, and I have this place on my list to visit. But considering going on a Friday afternoon, 4:30, when it’s hopefully cooler but also catch the gorgeous sunset and array of colours.

Thanks for all the information, it was really helpful! I’m wanting to go on Saturday during Ramadan, so I would have to go between 9am-2pm because of worship times, right?

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Thank you so much for this useful information and link out to other relevant articles/tips you’ve provided! So helpful.

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Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Info, Tour & Practical Guide 2023

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi stands as an absolute must-see, and unquestionably ranks among the most exquisite treasures in the UAE. Much like Paris boasts the iconic Eiffel Tower and Rome the majestic Colosseum, a visit to the Emirates would be incomplete without beholding the grandeur of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi.

Why is it a must-visit? Because its beauty is disarmingly captivating , rendering mere words inadequate to describe its splendor. Moreover, it holds immense significance as a genuinely authentic and culturally significant landmark, deeply woven into the rich history and heritage of the Emirates.

Drawing tens of millions of visitors each year , the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is globally acclaimed and revered as one of the world’s most popular landmarks, ranking second only to Machu Picchu in Peru, as per Tripadvisor’s recognition.

In this concise guide, I will provide you with some useful tips for visiting the Sheikh Zayed Mosque from Dubai or Abu Dhabi , along with fascinating facts that you should acquaint yourself with before embarking on this memorable journey!

What you’ll find in this Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque visit guide:

8 interesting facts about the Sheikh Zayed Mosque

• The Sheikh Zayed Mosque was built between 1996 and 2007 at the behest of the late UAE President Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. In 2004, Sheikh Zayed died and now rests in a mausoleum in the courtyard of the Sheikh Zayed Mosque.
• Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan is considered the Founding Father of the United Arab Emirates, a visionary leader who believed that nothing was impossible and that he was President and Ruler of Abu Dhabi for over 30 years, until his death.
• The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque was designed by the Syrian architect Yousef Abdelky and was built by Italian and Belgian contractors, with the work of over 3000 men. Hundreds of expert craftsmen and precious materials used for the construction come from over 10 different Asian and European countries.
• The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is able to accommodate over 10,000 worshipers in the internal areas and over 31,000 in the external areas and is normally frequented for daily and Friday prayers.

• The architecture of the Sheikh Zayed Mosque is inspired by the Persian, and Ottoman style, with strong influences of Indo-Islamic architecture. The minarets are typically Arab while the mosque as a whole is a fusion of Arab, Persian and Moorish elements.
• For the construction of the Sheikh Zayed Mosque, very precious marbles originating mainly from Italy and North Macedonia were used. Pure white marbles combine with handmade decorations and mosaics in natural marbles of different colors. The result is a masterpiece of art and beauty.
• The main prayer hall houses the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet , of approximately 5700 sqm. To make it took 2 years and the work of 1200 craftsmen.
• The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque has seven 24-carat-gold gilded crystal chandeliers from Germany. The largest weighs 12 tons!

5 useful tips for your visit to the Sheikh Zayed Mosque

Can i visit the sheikh zayed grand mosque even if i’m not a muslim.

Yes, the visit to the Sheikh Zayed Mosque is allowed to everyone, even non-Muslims. The people of Abu Dhabi are proud to introduce their culture and traditions to people from all over the world.

What is the ticket price for the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque?

Admission to the Sheikh Zayed Mosque is free for everyone. It is only required to register for a free ticket and to pass airport-style security checks.

Can I take pictures inside the Sheikh Zayed Mosque?

Yes, photography is allowed! The Sheikh Zayed Mosque attracts photographers from all over the world thanks to its delightful shapes and white glimpses. This is why the mosque is also known as the Abu Dhabi White Mosque.

Are there any guided tours to the Sheikh Zayed Mosque?

Yes, there are free guided tours (called Cultural Tours ) that last 30 or 45 minutes. The official guides of the Sheikh Zayed Mosque accompany visitors and passionately explain many details about architecture and customs. Tours take place in English or Arabic and there is usually one tour every hour.

What is the best way to visit the Sheikh Zayed Mosque from Dubai?

Most of the visitors come to visit the Sheikh Zayed Mosque from Dubai, this can be easily done because there are day tours that allow you to visit it conveniently . Sheikh Zayed Mosque is located 129 Km (80 Miles) from Dubai (about 1.5 hours).

How to get to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Visit the sheikh zayed mosque from abu dhabi.

If you are in Abu Dhabi you can reach the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque by taxi, there is a taxi stand near the mosque.

Many visitors choose to visit the Sheikh Zayed Mosque during a guided tour of Abu Dhabi that also allows you to visit the Qasr Al Watan and the Etihad Towers .

The tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Abu Dhabi, a professional English-speaking guide and all priority entrance tickets. There are also guides who speak German, Spanish or Italian.

If you prefer to go around independently, the solution for you is the double-decker Hop On Hop Off Bus , which allows you to easily and deeply visit all of Abu Dhabi and stop right in front of the Sheikh Zayed Mosque.

PRO TIP: If you arrive in Abu Dhabi on a Cruise these tours are perfect for you, because they include pick up and return to the port, they are much more complete than those that offer cruises, and are cheaper! Be smart!

Visit the Sheikh Zayed Mosque from Dubai

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque can be easily reached from Dubai, the two cities are well connected and for this reason Abu Dhabi is the perfect destination for a day tour.

From Dubai to Sheikh Zayed Mosque by Bus

Buses depart every 30 minutes from the Al Ghubaiba Bus station in Bur Dubai and reach the Sheikh Zayed Mosque in about 2 hours.

Keep in mind that you will have to go down before arriving in Abu Dhabi, because the mosque is located about 15 km before the city center. From the bus stop to the entrance of the mosque it takes a 10 minute walk.

Guided tours from Dubai to the Sheikh Zayed Mosque and Abu Dhabi

Since we are going to Abu Dhabi it is also worth taking a look at what there is to see in Abu Dhabi, right?

You can easily and comfortably visit the Sheikh Zayed Mosque with a day tour from Dubai .

If you are only interested in the Sheikh Zayed Mosque you can take a half-day tour that includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Dubai and an English-speaking guide. It is very cheap and easy!

Or you can choose to take a full-day tour of Abu Dhabi that allows you to enjoy all the main attractions, including the guided tour of the Sheikh Zayed Mosque of course. You can choose to be accompanied by a guide who speaks the language you prefer from English, German, French, Spanish and Italian.

In my opinion this is the best solution, because you have a guide that allows you to better understand what you see , you can see the most of Abu Dhabi and also admire other beautiful places such as the Qasr Al Watan, the Etihad Towers (includes the observation deck ticket!) and Emirates Palace !

You can hardly see all these things if you decide to go by bus or in other ways.

Sheikh Zayed Mosque Dress Code

Since we are visiting a place of prayer, we need to dress respectfully. The dress code is strictly respected and at the entrance of the Abu Dhabi Mosque (and during the visit) no exceptions are allowed.

Girls, you need to cover your hair with a scarf. Shoulders should also be covered. You can put on a shirt with long sleeves and long, loose-fitting pants.

However don’t worry, at the entrance you can borrow (for free) an Abaya, the traditional dress, which you can put on your clothes.

Guys, you will have to wear long and decent trousers and it is better to wear a shirt with long sleeves. But a polo shirt or a decent t-shirt can also be fine.

Food and drinks (including water) are not allowed inside the mosque (due to the presence of precious carpets).

Sheikh Zayed Mosque Timings

The opening hours for visitors to the Sheikh Zayed Mosque Abu Dhabi are Saturday to Thursday from 9.00 AM to 10.00 PM.

On Friday morning the mosque is closed to visitors (open only for prayers) and reopens to visitors from 4.30 PM to 10.00 PM.

Planning your trip to Abu Dhabi?  Then you should check out the  GUIDE TO THE BEST THINGS TO DO AND SEE IN ABU DHABI .

The Travel Sisters

Tips for visiting the sheikh zayed grand mosque in abu dhabi.

by The Travel Sisters | Dec 14, 2022 | Destinations , Trip Reports | 4 comments

1. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is free to visit.

Admission to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is free. Guided tours are also free.

2. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque visiting hours.

Normal visiting hours are 9 am to 10 pm (last admission 09:30 pm) on Saturday – Thursday. On Fridays, the mosque is open from 9:00am to 12:00pm (last admission 1:30 am) and reopens from 3:00 pm. to 10:00 pm (last admission 09:30 pm).

Visiting hours are different during the month of Ramadan so make sure to check the official website if visiting at that time.

3. Take a free guided tour.

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque offers free cultural tours tours at designated times. Tours are led by official SZGMC Guides who take visitors around the mosque explaining various elements of the architecture and Islamic culture and answer any questions. 

Tours run for approximately 30 and 45 minutes. You don’t have to register for the tour in advance just show up at the starting point of the tour. Here is the link to the mosque’s official website for the current tour schedule. There is also a sign posted at the mosque that lists the time of the next tour.

I recommend taking the tour if your timing allows. In addition to learning interesting facts about the mosque, the tour allows you to visit parts of the mosque not open to the general public.

On my tour we were allowed to walk on the carpet inside the Main Prayer Hall while other visitors were not allowed inside.

4. There is a strict dress code.

Visitors are expected to adhere to the dress code which is posted at the mosque and on the mosque’s official website and is strictly enforced.

Women must wear long loose fitting trousers, dresses or skirts as well as long sleeves and a headscarf. Men must wear pants and cannot wear shorts or sleeveless shirts.

Before COVID-19, the mosque used to lend women abayas (traditional attire for women that looks like a long robe), but that is no longer the case. There is a store you will pass by on the way to the mosque where you can purchase an abaya if you are not properly covered up.

Visitors do not have to remove shoes to walk around on the outside grounds of the mosque. Shoes are not allowed inside the mosque (which is not open to the public unless you are on a guided tour).

5. Bring sunglasses.

Unless you are visiting the Grand Mosque after sunset, make sure to bring sunglasses. Abu Dhabi is very sunny in general but at the mosque the sun reflects off the white marble making it especially bright.

6. Allow sufficient time for the long walk through the visitor center to the mosque.

If you previously visited the mosque several years ago, you will see a big difference when you return.  There is now a new visitor center that you will have walk through to reach the mosque from the entrance.

To get to the mosque, you will enter through a glass dome, take an escalator down and then walk through a long underground passageway to another glass dome where you go up the escalator and exit near the mosque grounds. Towards the end of the passageway, you will need to print a ticket from one of the kiosks and show it to security and go through the metal detectors. The underground visitor center also has several restaurants and a souvenir shop.

The underground passageway requires a long walk (so wear comfortable shoes).  You can expect that it will take you at least 10-15 minutes to walk through and reach the mosque from the entrance depending how fast you walk and how crowded it is. Keep this in mind and allow sufficient walking time if you are trying to reach the mosque in time for a tour or the sunset. If you have difficulty walking, there are several airport style people movers to help you along and also carts available as well.

7. Food and drink is not allowed on mosque grounds.

Visitors are not allowed to bring food or beverages (even water) to the mosque to ensure the mosque (particularly the delicate marble and carpet) is not damaged.

There are water fountains on the mosque grounds so you don’t have to worry about getting dehydrated during your visit.

If you need to eat before or after your visit, several restaurants (including large chains such as Starbucks and McDonalds, etc.) are located in the underground passage way that connects the mosque to the entrance.

8. Follow the rules and be respectful.

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is not just a tourist attraction – it is an active place of worship so be respectful and follow the rules. In addition to abiding by the dress code, don’t yell, make gestures, sit or lie on the ground or take disrespectful photos. Rihanna was asked to leave the mosque in 2013 for taking inappropriate photos.

You will see plenty of security guards that walk around the grounds enforcing the rules, giving warnings and preventing visitors from visiting restricted areas.

Below is a photo of the sign with the mosque rules.

9. What is the best time to visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque?

I would recommend visiting either first thing in the morning right after the mosque opens OR before sunset. Avoid the middle of the day since it can get very hot and the lighting will probably not be as great for photos.

When researching my trip, I read that the golden hour before sunset was one of the best times to visit the mosque for photography because you can take photos of the mosque when the light is soft and you can stick around to take photos during the sunset and in the evening. I also read that the morning right after the mosque opens at 9 am was a good time to visit because it is less crowded and the temperature was not as hot.

I was not sure which time to go so I ended visiting twice – the first time before sunset and the second time in the morning. I thought both times were good for different reasons.

Visiting the Mosque Around Sunset. While the lighting was good before sunset and the mosque was beautiful around sunset, it was very very crowded with tourists. (Parts of the mosque are roped off to visitors including the courtyard in front of the mosque, so you can take photos from behind the rope with no other people in your photos.)

I did not get a chance to take many photos during the golden hour before sunset because I chose to join a tour and was inside the mosque for part of that time. Below are a couple of photos of the mosque taken around sunset.

Visiting the Mosque In the Morning. We also briefly stopped by the mosque again right after it opened at 9am the next morning and the mosque was significantly less crowded. The mosque was beautiful in the morning because the marble looked really white against the very blue sky. Although it was sunny, the temperature did not feel as hot as it did around sunset. Below are a couple of photos of the mosque in the morning:

As you can see the mosque looks different depending what time of the day you visit. Since it is free to visit, if you have time you can visit both in the morning and around sunset if you have the time.

10. Getting to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

From Abu Dhabi: The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is located in Abu Dhabi about halfway between the Abu Dhabi Airport and the Corniche. If you are staying in Abu Dhabi you can take a bus, taxi, Uber or Careem . Please note that Uber and Careem are more expensive than taxis. If you take a taxi to the mosque you don’t have to worry about finding another taxi when leaving the mosque, there are plenty of taxis waiting in the parking lot.

From Dubai: You can also visit the mosque if you are staying in Dubai and many tourists do. The cheapest way to visit from Dubai is to take the bus and transfer to a local bus – but it will take at least twice as long as driving.

The mosque is approximately a 60-90 minute drive from Dubai and you can either rent a car , take a taxi (approximate cost is $55-75 USD one way according to rome2rio ) or rideshare or book a private transfer .

For 1 or 2 people a guided day tour might be a better value than a taxi plus you can visit a few other attractions in Abu Dhabi. Below are a few day tours from Dubai that visit the mosque:

Hopefully these tips have prepared you to visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi and you know what to expect.

The Sheikh Zayed Mosque is gorgeous! I can’t wait to visit this place in the future. I’m thrilled to hear that this mosque has free admission and free guided tours too. You mentioned that food and drinks are not allowed on the mosque. Can you bring an unopened bottle of water? Or is there a spot to leave it near the entrance?

I have not yet been to the UAE, but am planning a trip to Abu Dhabi for February. This mosque is on my list for sure.

I don’t have Abu Dhabi on my radar just yet in terms of travel, but that doesn’t mean I shouldn’t. That’s an incredible mosque!

I love visiting mosques. They are so beautiful and ornate. That’s cool that you don’t have to have a tour reserved and that you can just show up to take one. Also really cool that they take you to parts that aren’t open to the public. Definitely a reason to take a tour right there. That Main Prayer Hall is just wow!! It’s also really cool that they will lend you appropriate clothing to wear if you aren’t dressed appropriately. I don’t think the mosques I’ve been in had that option. I definitely agree with the sunglasses. I had mine on but I can only imagine if I hadn’t. I would definitely want to visit Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque when I get to visit Abu Dhabi!

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Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: How To Visit In Abu Dhabi, UAE

Abu Dhabi may not be as well known as Dubai when it comes to tourism hotspots, but there’s at least one thing you should definitely see here and that is the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

Like the name implies, it’s very big and grand, and it’s visited by millions of tourists every year. It actually reminds me a bit of the Taj Mahal in India , and that’s a good thing.

History Of The Grand Mosque

The Grand Mosque was built between 1996 and 2007, and it takes its name from Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan, the founder of the United Arab Emirates.

Located in Abu Dhabi, it’s the biggest mosque in the UAE, and one of the biggest mosques in the world. Construction cost a whopping 2 billion dirhams ($545 million USD).

Artisans were brought in from many countries, including Germany, India, Iran, Italy, Malaysia, Morocco, New Zealand, Turkey, and the United Kingdom.

The final product is beautiful and impressive, isn’t it?

Visiting The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Visiting the mosque is pretty easy and straightforward. There’s a brief security and X-ray process at the entrance, but it’s not a big hassle.

After security, there are free golf buggy rides to the front of the mosque if you’d like to skip the walk (highly recommended if it’s a hot day).

There’s also a free 1-hour guided tour if you’d like to have things explained to you as you walk around the mosque.  

Hours & Fees

• Hours (Sat-Thurs): 9 AM – 10 PM
• Hours (Friday): 4:30 PM – 10 PM
• Entrance Fees: Free

Being a functional Muslim mosque, there’s a pretty strict dress code at Sheik Zayed, especially for women.

• Men are required to cover their knees and shoulders
• Women are required to wear long sleeves, long trousers, and a headscarf

In either case, extra clothing to cover up can be provided for free if you need it. I wore shorts that went below the knees and this was accepted, but another guy in our tour group had his knees showing, so he had to put on a big white robe.

When you get to the mosque, you’ll also be required to shed your shoes and go barefoot.

The white marble flooring is spotless and it stays cool in the heat of the sun, so your toes will be nice and comfy, no worries!

Inside The Mosque

After walking around the mosque grounds and courtyard, you can also go inside the main building. This is free, again.

Everything on the inside is intricate and fancy, but there are a couple of things that really stand out.

One of these is the carpet, which is the world’s largest Persian carpet. It weighs 35 tons and covers 60,000 square feet (5,600 m2).

The other is a huge chandelier, the world’s 3rd largest, imported from Munich, Germany and containing thousands of Swarovski crystals.

How To Get To The Mosque

• from abu dhabi.

The Sheikh Zayed Mosque is located in Abu Dhabi, just a short distance from the city center.

From Abu Dhabi, the best way to get to the mosque is via a taxi ride with Uber or Careem . The ride will only take about 20-30 minutes.  

• From Dubai

From Dubai, the drive to the mosque is longer — about 130 kilometers (80 miles) or roughly 1.5 hours.

You can get there with a taxi (Uber or Careem ), but it’ll cost at least 185 AED ($50 USD) for a one way ride. Not exactly cheap. The other option is to take a shared bus tour from Dubai . I’ll explain more on bus tours in the next section.

Most people will probably stay in Dubai and visit Abu Dhabi from there, rather than the other way around, because Dubai is more tourist oriented and generally a more appealing place to base yourself.

The driving is pretty tame in the UAE, and roads are good, so another option is to rent a car and drive to the mosque yourself, but in some cases it can be even cheaper to just book a shared tour (see the next section below)!

Day Tours To Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

I visited Abu Dhabi from Dubai, with an online tour that I booked on Klook . They have a full day city tour of Abu Dhabi by shared bus (starting from Dubai) with free hotel pickup and dropoff.

This tour turned out to be very satisfactory. Sheikh Zayed mosque is one of the main stops on the tour, and we were given plenty of time to explore the whole mosque grounds, along with some other interesting places in Abu Dhabi.

Yes it’s a shared tour, but once you get to the mosque you will be surrounded by crowds of tourists anyway, so that didn’t bother me.

The tour lasts a full 8 hours. As a solo traveler, it’s an awesome value!

Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit the mosque is in the morning or evening, when temps are cooler and there are less people.

This is especially true in the summer, because it can get very, very hot in the UAE! In the middle of summer, you’re looking at midday temps of up to 42 C (108 F).

One bonus of visiting in the evening is that you can stay and see the mosque lit up after dark, which makes for some cool and unique photos.

Best Tours In The United Arab Emirates

Dubai hotels.

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Where I Stayed

I stayed at the 2-star Al Khoory Inn in Dubai for $24 USD per night, and got an immaculately clean double room with cold A/C, great facilities, and good location . Prices may fluctuate from time to time, so just keep an eye out for a good deal.

I spent most of my time in the UAE puking my guts out due to some sickness I picked up on the plane ride from Bangladesh, so this hotel turned out to be a comfy haven and place to recover for a few days.

The UAE is not the cheapest country in the world to travel, so this one was a pretty good bargain!

My Dubai hotel

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Great Information thanks for your writing.

Nice, Thanks for the information.

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Best Time to Visit Grand Mosque Abu Dhabi

November 24, 2022 | 13 min read

The ideal time to visit the mosque is in the evening, around 5:30 PM, when you can wander outside without being blistered by the intense heat searing your feet.

You can avoid the heat, which can be highly uncomfortable, by visiting in the morning or evening, especially from May to November, when it is the summer.

The Grand Mosque Abu Dabhi Mosque is breathtaking at sunset.

Like any well-known tourist destination, weekends are a little busier than weekdays.

If you linger for an hour, you can also enjoy breathtaking views of the mosque against the setting sun. Continue walking for a little while to see the mosque lit up against the sunset. However, you can visit the mosque in the afternoon when there are fewer people around if you'd rather avoid the crowds in exchange for enduring the heat.

Table of Contents

• Why is Dress Code Necessary in Grand Mosque Abu Dhabi?
• Dress Code & Manners for Women at the Grand Mosque Abu Dhabi
• Dress Code & Manners for Men at the Grand Mosque Abu Dhabi
• Grand Mosque Abu Dhabi Other Etiquettes & Tips

How Long Does Grand Mosque Take?

Most people explore Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque between 90 minutes to 2 hours.

Intricate decorations and features can be explored for 30 to 60 minutes after the 60-minute guided tour of the mosque.

You could require an additional 30 minutes on weekends and other busy days due to long lines.

Plan accordingly because the Sheikh Zayed Mosque is enormous, measuring more than 12 hectares (30 acres).

Nighttime views from the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque are breathtaking. The white columns are more strikingly reflected in the courtyard's pools, which sparkle against the night sky. To reflect the moon's phases, a unique lighting system projects blue-grey clouds of changing intensities onto the mosque's outside walls. Every two days, the mosque's colour gradually shifts from white to blue, deepening as the moon gets smaller. The mosque is illuminated in its darkest blue on the fourteenth night of the cycle to denote a "no moon." Additionally, the lights are intended to create the appearance of clouds moving across the mosque.

Grand Mosque Abu Dhabi Facts

• The mosque, which was designed in the Ottoman style, features a massive courtyard that can hold up to 30,000 people.
• The mosque has seven chandeliers with 40 million Swarovski crystals that are constructed of brass, stainless steel, and 24 karat gold.
• The hall's roughly 76 columns show a flawless fusion of Islamic and North African architectural design.
• Additionally, it features two little side halls that can fit 10,000 people and are designated especially for women to use as places of prayer.
• The main draw of this place is the Qibla wall, which faces Mecca and is etched with 99 of Allah's names in Kufic calligraphy.
• There are also reflective pools at this mosque that shine at night.
• The Sheikh Zayed Mosque was built at a cost of more than $500 million.
• All natural resources, including valuable stones, marble, gold, and crystals, were used in the mosque's construction.
• Several languages, including Arabic, English, French, Italian, Spanish, German, and Korean, are represented in the library in one of the minarets.
• The largest hand-made carpet in the world is proudly displayed in the Sheikh Zayed Mosque. Over 60000 square feet in size and weighing around 35 tonnes, the carpet is made of Iranian cotton and New Zealand wool.
• The mosque has seven chandeliers. The largest chandelier in the world is suspended behind the mosque's main dome. This gold-plated beauty is made of millions of Swarovski crystals.
• The stunning minaret design incorporates Mamluk, Ottoman, and Fatimid architecture elements.
• For having the best lighting design in the area, the mosque was given the "Middle East Lighting Design Award 2008."

Robeena Brown

It’s been amazing journey collecting, organizing & publishing UAE travel related information. We often hear our guests says it was some thing useful when I found Arabiers, that give me motivation to sit hours & hours with subject experts to extract right information that are useful but updated. I would love to write some thing that useful for any travelers, Recidents & locals, we at Arabiers trying our level best provide right information & aiming at updating our information page as much as we can, looking forward your feedback.

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• Sheikh Zayed Mosque
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The Grand Mosque of Abu Dhabi

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a definite MUST SEE and you should not miss the opportunity to visit this beautiful house of allah. Be prepared to be impressed and awed. The mosque exudes an incredible sense of peace and tranquility and even non believers will feel a little spiritual touch. It is a unique experience for people of all religions.

Even if you are the most rigid atheist you will still enjoy the architectural beauty, colors and intricacies of this iconic structure.

The incredibly impressive Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Abu Dhabi is the largest mosque in the United Arab Emirates and the eighth largest in the world.

The mosque has the dimensions 224 times 174 meters, making place for 40,000 worshippers. The main dome over the prayer hall has a height of 75 meters. With a diameter of about 32 meters, it is the largest mosque dome in the world. The construction costs amounted to incredible 545 million dollars.

For the construction only very high-quality material was used, 15 different types of marble and endless sheets of gold leaf, among other things. Inside the mosque, you can find the largest chandelier in the world. Another superlative is the hand knitted carpet covering the inside of the mosque. With a staggering 5627 square meters and 47 tons of weight, it is the largest hand-knotted carpet of its kind in the world.

A Mosque for Everyone

Opening Hours & What to wear

Men: Men should enter the mosque only dressed in long trousers and t-shirts with sleeves. Shorts and muscle t-shirts are not allowed. For this emergency cases, the mosque provides free kanduras (the local white traditional dress).

Ladies: Women may enter the mosque but they have to be respectfully and appropriately dressed. The clothing must be wide (no tight fitting skirts, trousers or shirts) and head, arms and legs must be covered.

There are free rental abayas available at the underground parking of the mosque but if you dont want to look like a grey smurf we recommend buying a traditional abaya before your visit to the mosque at Hamdan Center, Carrefour in Marina Mall or at Coop in Abu Dhabi Mall. They are available in simple styles for as little as AED60 (15€) and you will thank us when your family back home admires those cool holiday pictures.

Admission to the mosque is free

Visiting Hours: Saturday-Thursday: from 9am to 10pm Friday: morning closed (prayer timing) - opens only at 4.30pm

During Ramadan different times apply

Prayer Timings: Fajr 04:08am | Sunrise 05:31am | Dhuhr 12:21pm | Asr 03:46pm | Maghrib 07:10pm | Isha 08:40pm

The Big Bus Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tour stops here

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ABU DHABI , ASIA , MIDDLE EAST , UNITED ARAB EMIRATES · January 3, 2017 Last Updated on March 14, 2024

9 TIPS FOR VISITING THE SHEIKH ZAYED MOSQUE IN ABU DHABI

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If you find yourself in the United Arab Emirates then a visit to Abu Dhabi’s Grand Mosque – Sheikh Zayed is a must because it’s certainly the Grandest Mosque I’ve ever seen and to be honest it’s worth planning a trip to the UAE just to see it! I visited the Sheikh Zayed Mosque whilst I was in Dubai  so here are 9 tips and pieces of information to help you plan your visit and know what to expect when you arrive.

1. GETTING TO SHEIKH ZAYED GRAND MOSQUE

If you’re staying in Abu Dhabi you’ll find it very easy to get to the Sheik Zayed Mosque by taxi, however, if you’re staying in Dubai which is 150km away then do not let this put you off going!

When I was researching how to get to the Mosque from Dubai there appeared to be a bus that goes from Dubai bus station to Abu Dhabi bus station, however I couldn’t find much information on it and it would have involved getting 4 taxi’s either side of the bus so in the end my friend and I decided to get a taxi for the whole journey.

It took about 90 minutes each way and cost 250-275 AED ( see current exchange rate ) each way. Our taxi driver from Dubai had no issues with taking us there and there were taxis waiting outside of the Mosque when we finished who had no issues with taking us back to Dubai either and I can imagine they’re very used to it.

Best Accommodation Near The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque:

• The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi Grand Canal
• The Fairmont Bab Al Bahr
• The Park Rotana Abu Dhabi
• Find the best price on hotels in  Abu Dhabi

2. HAVE BREAKFAST BEFORE YOU GO

Again, when I was first researching how to get to the Sheikh Zayed Mosque and what we would do I thought we could get a coffee from somewhere before or after we visited or take a walk and see more of Abu Dhabi.

On the map, there is some greenery and water nearby, but once there we realised it didn’t feel like a very walkable area due to the many big roads so we ended up heading back to Dubai as soon as we finished. However, looking at the map now it seems like there’s a Coffee Club  across the road so you may well be able to get a coffee now!

3. IT’S FREE TO ENTER THE SHEIKH ZAYED MOSQUE

Unlike many tourist attractions, it’s completely free to enter so there is no reason to miss this beautiful mosque when you are in UAE! There are also free guided tours which last about 45-60 minutes (see below for more information).

Related Post: A Complete Guide To Visiting Abu Dhabi

Subscribe to get our FREE eBook with tips on saving money when you travel!

4. SHEIKH ZAYED MOSQUE OPENING TIMES

Opening times are 9:00am-22:00 Saturday-Thursday and 16:30-22:00 on Fridays. As with many destinations, it’s worth visiting during the week to avoid crowds. But as you can see from the pictures the scale of the mosque, compared to the size of its visitors means you will not feel crowded there.

You’ll probably know if you’re in the UAE during Ramadan and if you are, note that the opening times change to 9:00 am-14:00 pm Saturday-Thursday and the mosque is completely closed on Fridays. They also only offer tours at 10:00 am on the days they are open.

5. BEST TIME OF DAY TO VISIT SHEIKH ZAYED MOSQUE

Any time of day is a good time to visit the mosque, however due to the heat you’re best visiting early morning or late evening. Also, if you’re into your photography then you might want to visit at sunset or just before sunset during golden hour as the photos I have seen from this time make the building look even more beautiful as the sun is shining off of it!

6. DRESS APPROPRIATELY

As this is a Muslim site you do need to cover up and understandably they are very strict with the dress code. They do however provide women with a black Abaya free of charge which they have in a few different sizes. On arrival, you are directed to a room where you change before entering the Mosque.

*Update 2020: Please double check that Abayas are available on the Grand Mosque website  before you visit and ensure your own outfit is appropriate and includes a headscarf.

I wanted to wear my own outfit so it looked nicer in pictures (my main concern obviously!) so I wore a loose black maxi dress and took a headscarf and something to cover my arms, but they weren’t happy with it and made me wear one of their Abayas anyway. I got the feeling they like everyone to wear them so you are fully covered.

Therefore, I would suggest arriving with the attitude that you’re happy to wear one and if you want to add a bit of colour and style then bring along your own headscarf, otherwise you’ll have to use the hood of the Abaya. Also, be prepared to take your shoes off and walk barefoot.

For more information on the dress code, see the Mosque Manners section on the official website.

7. BRING SUNGLASSES

You’ll probably have your sunglasses on you anywhere as you’re in the UAE, but make sure you do pack them as the white building and the strong sun can make it practically blinding!

8. TAKE THE FREE GUIDED TOUR

Free guided tours are available at various times during the day depending on the day. We got there just after the first tour started and didn’t want to wait for the next tour to start so we walked around on our own but I can imagine the tour would be very interesting and worthwhile!

The tours are offered in English and Arabic and children are welcome. You can find the tour times on the official Grand Mosque website .

9. ENJOY IT!

It really is an incredible building and one of the grandest Grand Mosques in the world! Enjoy the culture, learn something about religion, take plenty of photos and be respectful. I hope that this article about the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi has inspired you to visit this incredible piece of architecture.

WHAT TO KNOW FOR VISITING ABU DHABI

United arab emirates visas.

The typical visa to visit the United Arab Emirates allows you a free 30 day stay on arrival depending on your country of nationality. Be sure to check the official United Arab Emirates Immigration website for the latest information.

The currency used in United Arab Emirates is the  Dirham (AED) . The current exchange rate is approximately 1 USD to 3.65 AED. You can check the latest IDR exchange rate on Google .

While traveling, our number one tip is to use a free Charles Schwab Debit Card which gives unlimited worldwide ATM Fee Refunds and the true exchange rate.

BEST TOURS IN ABU DHABI

Some of the best tours and things to do in Abu Dhabi are:

• Desert Safari with BBQ, Camel Ride & Sandboarding
• City Tour with Grand Mosque & Royal Palace Visit
• Formula Yas 3000 Race Car Driving Experience

WHERE TO STAY IN ABU DHABI

Look to stay in central Abu Dhabi near the Grand Mosque or on Yas Island . We recommend booking your hotels on Booking.com to get the best rate and many hotels offer free cancellation in case your plans change.

Some of our favorite hotels in Abu Dhabi are:

• Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri : Beautiful waterfront hotel with a view of the Grand Mosque
• St Regis Abu Dhabi : Ultra luxury hotel on Saadiyat Island
• Yas Hotel : Moderately priced hotel on Yas Island

AirBnB is also a great option in Abu Dhabi (and you can save up to $44 on your first booking with that link)!

BEST TIME TO VISIT UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

The best time to visit Abu Dhabi is during the cooler months between October and April . May to September can be uncomfortably warm, with temperatures exceeding 40+ degrees Celsius (105+ degrees Fahrenheit).

BEST BOOKS ABOUT ABU DHABI

Read more about United Arab Emirates before you go! Some of the best books about Abu Dhabi are:

• From Rags to Riches: A Story of Abu Dhabi by Mohammed Al Fahim
• Spaceship in the Desert: Energy, Climate Change, and Urban Design in Abu Dhabi
• Keepers of the Golden Shore: A History of the United Arab Emirates

WHAT POWER ADAPTERS DO YOU NEED

United Arab Emirates uses standard 2 prong Type C adapters (commonly used in Europe), 3 prong round Type D adapters , and 3 prong Type G adapters (commonly used in the United Kingdom).

You can buy a universal adapter that will work in any country with any plug type and has extra ports for USB cables to charge your phone and other devices.

We also always travel with a portable battery pack which is great to keep your phone charged on long journies.

TRANSPORTATION IN ABU DHABI

• Public Transportation: There is regular public transportation by bus in Abu Dhabi. You can get a reloadable Hafilat card which can be used on any public bus, though traveling by bus is significantly slower than renting a car or taking a taxi.
• Rental Cars : It is possible to rent a car at the airport in Abu Dhabi. Make sure to be aware of local rules and strictly enforced speed cameras!
• Uber: Uber is not available in Abu Dhabi. However, taxis are reasonably priced and readily available, making them the preferred method of transportation.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

Our top recommended travel insurance companies for Abu Dhabi are:

• World Nomads : Comprehensive coverage for medical, travel delays, and electronics.
• SafetyWing : Cheaper monthly coverage primarily for medical.

For more information, read our article on why you need to book travel insurance for your next trip!

MORE ARTICLES ABOUT THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

• A Complete Guide To Visiting Abu Dhabi
• First-Time Visitor’s Guide To Dubai: What Not To Miss
• 10 Must Do Unique Experiences In Dubai
• 5 Wonderful Sights Not To Miss In Old Dubai

I hope this article helps you to plan your own visit to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. If you have questions, tips or updated information about visiting the Sheikh Zayed Mosque, please share them with readers in the comments.

Want to share your own travel tips by guest writing for We Are Travel Girls? Go to our  Contribute page for guidelines and to submit your article.

Subscribe to get access to our FREE eBook with tips for saving money when you travel!

We Are Travel Girls Contributor Ellie Quinn of TheWanderingQuinn.com Connect with Ellie  Facebook | Twitter | Instagram  | You Tube | Pinterest

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This website may use affiliate links in our articles. Please see our  Disclosures  for more information.

You’ll Also Love

Kristina says

January 4, 2017 at 2:08 am

Great article on Sheikh Zayed Mosque! I used to work in UAE for almost two years back in 2013, and I must say that the mosque really lives up to its name—Grand. It’s majestic and overwhelming. There’s a bus service running from Dubai to Abu Dhabi (by Roads and Transport Authority Dubai) and Abu Dhabi to Dubai (by Department of Transportation Abu Dhabi) which costs both AED25, each way. There are two bus terminals in Dubai that have buses going to Abu Dhabi, 1) Al Ghubaiba Bus Terminal which is the main and larger one, and closer to the city center i.e Deira and 2) Ibn Batuta Bus Terminal (located in Ibn Batuta Mall) which is closer to the Mall of the Emirates. You can check it from here: http://dubai-buses.com/InterCity.aspx Both bus services arrive and let off passengers at the same bus terminal in Al Wahda Bus Terminal in Abu Dhabi. From there, you can take a cab or a local bus to get to the Grand Mosque. You can visit this link to plan your journey in Abu Dhabi: https://www.darb.ae/darbweb/map-viewer.html

Getting back to Dubai from AD by bus, head over to the Al Wahda Bus Terminal. Two bus services are available, the same where you catch your bus going to AD. If you are staying close to Deira/ Downtown, catch the E100 Abu Dhabi to Bur Dubai/Al Ghubaiba bus station or E101 Abu Dhabi to Ibn Batuta Metro Station. Bus E100 drops off passengers at only 2 stops; at Al Jafiliya Metro Station (just after World Trade Center) and at Bur Dubai/Al Ghubaiba Bus Terminal. Do note that E100 buses leave every 30 mins while E101 buses leave every hour. It takes about 30-40mins from Ibn Batuta to say, Burj Khalifa.

We Are Travel Girls says

January 4, 2017 at 2:16 am

Hi Kristina, Thanks so much for taking the time to write out so much detailed information – this is so helpful for our readers!! If you ever want to write for us and share more of your travel tips head over to our Contribute page! > http://www.wearetravelgirls.com/contribute

April 5, 2018 at 11:18 am

This is amazing, thank you! We are in the process of planning our trip to UAE and this information was super helpful. We are going during Ramadan so we are nervous about the Mosque hours and the crowd. The bus information is also very helpful. Which bus from Abu Dhabi to Dubai gets us closer to the Dubai mall? I figured that’s a good place to catch a taxi to our hotel.

May 28, 2018 at 2:00 pm

I’m also traveling to UAE during Ramadan. Thank u very much for these helpful tips as I was researching where to buy tickets, attire and get my transportation.

Thanks so much and keep writing!

Akshay Koranne says

January 27, 2017 at 7:22 am

Thanks Ellie for sharing the tips. I have been in Abu Dhabi last year, however I was unable to visit this beautiful mosque. You have given me the reason to visit the emirates capital once again. beautiful pictures and very well explained blog. Looks like worth watching place.

Becky van Dijk says

January 27, 2017 at 8:38 am

Thank you for reading and commenting Akshay, we are pleased to hear that Ellie’s post has inspired you to visit Abu Dhabi again!

February 9, 2017 at 6:37 pm

Akshay My family is traveling to Abu dhabi encounter to another country in May but we havw two dats in abu Dhabi cold you give me a few spots that are must see while there. It is our hope to shop the souks but I want them to experience the culture too while there. Kim

Arif Khan says

January 28, 2017 at 12:39 pm

Abu Dhabi looks more than decent to me. To be very honest, I was unaware of all these beautiful attractions. I have been in Dubai twice but never visited Abu Dhabi. I hope next, I will get a chance to visit this wonderful place. Thanks for sharing the blog.

January 29, 2017 at 4:06 am

Thanks for reading and commenting Arif, so pleased that this post has inspired you to visit Abu Dhabi!

Stella says

May 1, 2017 at 12:42 pm

When I visit the mosque, I would like to have the black abaya for rental. Can you request for it or how did you get the black? As I’ve seen there are other colours of abaya for rental as well. Thanks for the answer!

May 2, 2017 at 5:09 am

Thanks for reading and commenting Stella. The article was written by our contributor Ellie Quinn of http://www.thewanderingquinn.com , perhaps you could reach out to her to get some more tips in travel to the mosque. Thanks! XO, Becky

November 17, 2017 at 3:21 am

It is really helpful and delightful because I am intend to visit this amazing building tomorrow. As this is the second time I am here and free to take a tour in Abu Dhabi, but still it is not a city I are familiar with. The most concern is that I do not know how to get back to downtown Abu Dhabi. But your lovely tips do help me out so I am comfort to go. Thanks for the sharing.

November 27, 2017 at 10:19 pm

Thank you so much for reading Lily, so pleased to hear that you found Ellie’s post about visiting the mosque helpful for your own planning. Have a wonderful time on your trip! Becky – Founder, We Are Travel Girls

norman says

January 14, 2018 at 4:02 am

hi do you know if an regular tripod for camera is allowed to used inside? thank you

Riya Chauhan says

January 18, 2018 at 1:47 am

What a lovely post ? loved all your pictures and thanks for all the details ♥️

January 19, 2018 at 5:51 pm

Thank you for reading and commenting Riya!

January 30, 2018 at 1:29 am

Thank you for sharing this! So hepful! We are planning our trip to Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the end of March and looking forward visiting this beautiful place. We’ll be staying in Dubai most of the time but planning to come to Abu Dhabi for one night, do you think is enough? THanks! Love reading your blog btw ;)

KIm Glenn says

April 26, 2018 at 11:31 am

I think an update is required here. I visited the Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi today expecting to be able to get an Abaya. There were no Abaya’s available. On top of that, many people in our group were refused entrance as their clothes were too tight, showed wrists, ankles, see thru and the list went on. They are very strict and if I could offer advice / go prepared with your own attire. Completely covered neck to toes and fingertips. Loose not form fitting. Your hair must also be covered with a scarf. Men get away with much less but women there was no leniency at all. So much so the wind blew my head scarf off and security was on me to put it back on. So go prepared and dress yourself so there is no disappointments.

Tereza says

September 20, 2018 at 8:03 am

Thanks for the update!

August 15, 2019 at 1:06 pm

Hi. It seems the policies have changed as of this comment date. There were women who may be considered as wearing “Provacative attire” but jad no issues getting in. Abbaya’s are provided dor women and tracksuit bottoms are available for men to change into, provided free of charge.

Tatiana Arteaga says

June 7, 2018 at 7:02 pm

hi wondering if i bring small girls do they also have to cover up? thanks

August 15, 2019 at 1:01 pm

Hi, no. Small boys and girls do not need to comply with relevant attire. My 7 year old son had long shorts on and my 4 year old daughter had a summer dress

December 9, 2018 at 7:11 am

Hi! Thank u for sharing this.. Im going to the mosque by taxi from my hotel in Dubai.. I was wondering if its easy to get a taxi back to Dubai from the mosque? As in, taxis are easily available outside the mosque? Will be waiting for your kind reply.. Thank u so much..

August 15, 2019 at 1:12 pm

Sorry this is too late for you but for future travellers, yes there are official and plentiful taxis at the complex. I was told they are there till 10:30 to 11 pm

ly rain says

March 29, 2019 at 8:31 pm

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque was initiated by the late president of the United Arab Emirates. His final resting place is located on the grounds beside the same mosque. The mosque was constructed from 1996 to 2007. The carpet in the main prayer hall is considered to be the world’s largest carpet. It also having third largest chandelier in the world inside.

August 15, 2019 at 1:09 pm

Just to let you know there are various coffee and fast food shops now open near the entrance/security area. There is also a large grocery shop and souvenir shops. There will be a McDonald’s opening soon! :-(

Kamaljeet says

November 28, 2019 at 10:04 am

There is a Clock looking piece hing on the wall inside the mosque. What is it and what does it signify.

December 4, 2019 at 1:34 am

Thank you for posting articles like this; it is very informative!

Hope you can help me with my question. I have a late night to mid morning layover in Abu Dhabi by mid December 2019. Having said that, the latest time I can visit the mosque is around 7am, because my connecting flight is 10:45am. I’m aware that opening hour starts at 9am.

Do you have any idea what parts of the mosque I’ll be able to see during this hour?

Thanks to advise.

Sana Haris says

August 26, 2020 at 1:19 am

Thank you for sharing this! So helpful! We are planning our trip to Dubai and Abu Dhabi at the end of March and looking forward to visiting this beautiful place. We’ll be staying in Dubai most of the time but planning to come to Abu Dhabi for one night, do you think is enough? BTW Best Post thanks for sharing this information I really like your posts.

January 10, 2022 at 11:51 pm

Hi! Great article, just one update, nowadays Uber is available in Abu Dhabi, and otherwise download the Careem app, also great for taxis, with these two apps you don’t have to have cash for your taxi. Because if you take a ‘regular’ taxi they do not accept credit cards unless you have a specific app, which is hard to install if you are not Emirati :)

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Quick Guide to Visiting the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi in 2024

• On Nov 27, 2023

In this travel guide, we tell you how to get to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque from Abu Dhabi or Dubai by public transport or tour, how to book tickets, what is proper dress code, where is the best viewpoint, opening hours, including the best time to visit and how much time you should spend in the Mosque. Learn all the tips you need to know before you visit this breathtakingly beautiful Mosque. It is almost unbelievable that such a majestic sight is for free, but we can assure you it is true.

Sheikh Zayed Mosque is the final resting place of Sheikh Zayed, one of the most impressive mosques we have ever seen. White and gold decor gives a luxurious vibe; this Mosque is impressive. More than 80 marble domes and floral designs can be admired inside the complex. 

No other words can describe the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Mosque better than Masterpiece. Everywhere you look, you’re stunned. From the smallest details, everything is simply perfect. Materials to build this Mosque were brought from all different corners of the world. The crystal chandeliers resemble the palm tree as a sign of the UAE’s prosperity. Another interesting fact about the Mosque is its lighting system is connected to the lunar system, and depending on the night of the cycle, the Mosque is lit from the deepest blue to cool white. This Mosque is named after the founder of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Zayed. 

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW TO VISIT SHEIKH ZAYED GRAND MOSQUE

Opening hours of sheikh zayed grand mosque.

• From Saturday to Sunday, it is open from 9am to 10pm.
• On Fridays: from 9am to 12pm and reopens from 3pm to 10pm.

Opening hours are slightly different during Ramadan.

To enter the Mosque, you need to prebook your e-pass here . You fill in a few details, and it will generate a QR code that you will scan upon entry to the Mosque area. The entrance is free.

• Price: Free

HOW MUCH TIME YOU NEED FOR VISITING THE MOSQUE

Two to three hours is enough time to explore the Mosque and to have enough time to take photos. On our visit, we spent 3 hours in the Mosque. The whole complex is quite big, so give yourself enough time. From the entrance in the underground mall, frequent golf carts drive you to the Mosque for free, so it saves you a lot of walking. But the area itself is big, and there will be many spots you want to photograph.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

The best time to visit, is without second thoughts, before dusk. Let’s say around 4:00pm-4:30pm. This way, you will enjoy seeing the Mosque during daylight, the sunset, and when it is dark outside. The colours are insane. Depending on the time of the year, it is good to come roughly 2 hours before sunset, which gives you enough time to explore the Mosque.

WHAT TO EXPECT

• To reach the entrance to the Mosque, you first go through the underground shopping mall with many shops, cafes and toilets. In case you want to buy an abaya here, know that prices in this mall are much higher than if you buy it somewhere in the city centre. 
• After you walk through the mall, you will reach the visitor entrance. Here, you will show your e-pass that you prebooked, and then they will guide you to line up in a queue for a golf cart that will drive you to the Mosque. This service is free of charge.
• You can’t bring your food and drinks . However, the Mosque had multiple water fountains, so we brought our empty bottle with us. Several toilets are in the areal of the mosque.
• Abu Dhabi is known for its high temperatures , so if you visit in the summer (June-September), it is crazy hot outside. However, you can escape the heat inside the prayer hall, which is nicely air-conditioned . 
• You can go on a free guided walking tour that lasts 45 minutes. Those tours start on the East side of the Mosque, and the staff by the entrance will provide you with the necessary information on how to attend. 

TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR ABU DHABI Remember to have proper travel insurance for visiting Abu Dhabi that covers you well. We recommend IATI Travel Insurance , which provides various insurance options and has 24/7 customer service. As a reader of Broken Navigation, you also get an exclusive 5% discount on any insurance you purchase through the following link. Get your 5% discount for travel insurance with IATI here.

HOW TO GET TO THE MOSQUE BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT

It is super easy to find the right bus in Abu Dhabi. Just use Google Maps where you put a location where you want to go. It works perfectly fine and shows you all the bus stops and connections. Alternatively, Abu Dhabi has an app for public transport, and all the routes are marked well in their Darbi App.

Two public buses go frequently to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: buses #24 and #94 . One way costs 2 AED ($0.5). Make sure you have your Hafilat Card because it is not possible to pay by card or cash inside the bus. We have already explained how to get your Hafilat card in our travel guide to Abu Dhabi . The mosque is roughly 19 km from Abu Dhabi Downtown and takes around 50 minutes to reach by bus.

• Bus 24 – goes from Marina Mall, through Corniche, Al Wahda Mall, to Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
• Bus 94 – goes from Ajwan Towers, through the Louvre, downtown and Central Bus Station to Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

If you go from Dubai, check out this organised tour , which saves you a lot of time and effort.

Read more: How to make the most of a 48-hour stopover in Abu Dhabi.

Note that currently, it is not possible to rent an abaya in the Mosque, and you need to bring your own.

Dress code for man

T-shirt and loose trousers are the best bet for men. No shorts are allowed. Jakub wore jeans and a t-shirt.

Dress code for women

We are used to travelling in Muslim countries. Therefore, I always carry a scarf with me. I needed to buy an abaya this time, so a day before we visited the Mosque, we were hunting for some cheap abaya. You can buy your abaya in random malls. I bought my $5 abaya in this mall close to our Couchsurfing host.

I just have one tip for you. If you think you will buy an abaya in the mall you pass before the visitor entrance to the Mosque, know that those abayas are expensive (starting at $55) and probably of much better quality than mine. However, I did not want to spend much money since I needed to wear it only for a mosque visit.

THE BEST PHOTO SPOTS

Designated photo spots are all around the Mosque from where you can take photos inside the Mosque and guarantee beautiful views.

There is a beautiful viewpoint from which you can get a stunning view and a perfect shot of the Mosque from a distance. This place is not inside the mosque area, so I recommend you go there after you visit the Mosque. Also, it is the best at night. You find this viewpoint on Google Maps as View Point On the Mosque. Or simply click here for the exact view point location  

There is a free shuttle to the Wahat Al Karma memorial; that is exactly where the viewpoint is. Or you can walk there via a pedestrian bridge that takes around 15 minutes. Optionally, you can also go by bus to the Wahat Al Karama bus stop right in front of it.

VPN FOR ABU DHABI

VPN is a must have for Abu Dhabi. In Abu Dhabi, a VPN is essential because many sites are blocked, and you can’t access them without a VPN, including WhatsApp or Facebook, and many other apps. We tried many free VPN apps during our travels, but they didn’t have good security and mostly didn’t work. That’s why we use NordVPN, a reliable app with fast customer service in case you need assistance, and they offer various kinds of plans that save you a lot of money.

Check the best prices for NordVPN here.

The best tour to visit Sheikh zayed grand mosque

To save time and hassle, visiting the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque with an organised tour with a knowledgeable guide is very popular. You can go from Abu Dhabi or Dubai. Check our tour recommendations:

TOUR From abu dhabi

Tour from dubai, where to stay after visiting the mosque.

We stayed here I Novel Hotel City Center – after spending 2 days with our Couchsurfing host we moved to this hotel for two weeks and absolutely loved this place. There is an outside pool, sauna, and gym, and the view is pretty good. The rooms are clean, wifi super fast, and after 6 months of travelling, we had a well-needed rest here. We stayed so long because we were sick from AC and needed to relax. This place gets expensive in the main season – up to $250/night. However, from time to time, especially in the off-season, they have offers for $30-50 per night, which we managed to get through Booking.com.  

Luxury I The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi – if you have the budget for this hotel, it is an absolute dream place. Maybe you have already seen many photos with amazing views over the Mosque but couldn’t figure out where those photos were taken. Well, chances are that it was shot from this magnificent hotel overlooking the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Photo corners and viewpoints inside this hotel are stunning.

Couchsurfing I Abu Dhabi has a big Couchsurfing community, and it is very easy to find a host there. There are usually expats living there, so you most likely won’t spend time with someone from the Emirates, but you will surely meet friendly people. We organised our Couchsurfing host for the first two nights of our stay, as he lived very close to the mosque, so we could explore that part of Abu Dhabi more easily. Make sure you find your host at least a week in advance as, from our experience, it took a few days to get some response. Some hosts live in pretty cool skyscrapers, and you will feel like you are in a hotel. As a bonus, you can make new friends in a different country! We love Couchsurfing for that. 

Budget I Al Raien Hotel Apartments – To avoid staying in filthy hostels or dorm rooms in Dubai, try this hotel, where you at least get a private room and stay in a good location 2km from Twin Towers.

Mid-Range I Grand Mercure Dubai City – Beautiful hotel with a pool and gym. Here, you will have comfort if that is what you want. Wifi here works very well, and guests enjoy on-site restaurants.

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On Booking.com we always find the best deals for accommodation. Another great option for cheap accommodation is Hostelworld .

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Travelling for years now, she found the passion in unique and off the beaten path places. Romana is a food lover, but it doesn’t stop her from hiking the mountains for several days. By sharing her experiences, she wants to help you experience the same.

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Insider’s Guide To Visiting Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque In Abu Dhabi

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi is one of the opulent structure and an incredible architecture one shouldn’t miss visiting.

If you are visiting Abu Dhabi, you should definitely add Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in your itinerary, and we are sure our guide will help you a lot in planning your trip here! 

Abu Dhabi, being the capital emirate of UAE, is slightly overshadowed and looks less touristy than its counterpart Dubai.

However this largest emirate city has many stunning superlative attractions in its sleeve. Be it architectural wonder of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, or tranquil mangrove forests, or its city vibe, Abu Dhabi is second to none!

As an architecture lover, visiting Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque was one of the best experience. Therefore, we felt there’s a need to write a complete guide to help other travellers.

In this post, we have created a complete guide on what to expect from Grand Mosque, how to reach here, dress code and practical information, which we hope will be useful when you are visiting Abu Dhabi. 

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. I receive a small commission at no cost to you when you make a purchase using my link.For more information, please check our privacy policy

Also Read: Kayaking the E astern Mangrove Forest in Abu Dhabi

How to reach Grand Mosque Abu Dhabi

We drove from Dubai to Abu Dhabi and it took us little less than 1.5 hours on road. If you are relying on public transport, there are regular buses that run from Al Ghubaiba bus station in the Bur Dubai area to Abu Dhabi. 

They are non-stop bus journeys and takes about 2 hours.  From Abu Dhabi bus station, you can either take taxi, or take bus line 032 which takes 45 minutes to reach the mosque. 

Why visit Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque?

Exotic architecture.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the contemporary architectural wonders of the modern times.  This modern mosque is often compared to Taj Mahal. Although, personally, I would never make comparison between these two, having seen both of them. They are both different and unique in their own ways. But truth be told, this mosque lives up to any such comparisons.

The mosque is well built and is one of the striking architecture I’ve seen in the recent times. One glimpse at the mosque gives the feeling as if the mosque is immersed in snow. So pure, so white, that it camouflaged with the environment. The imposing dome and minarets dominates the skyline.

Intricate and Rich Interiors

Marvellous Domes

The art work on the domes deserve a word of appreciation too. Very detailed and intricate Moroccan artwork with floral and arabesque patterns. There are about 82 domes in different sizes. The largest one is located in the centre of the main prayer hall. 

Crystal Chandeliers

One thing that stands out and leaves you speechless is the chandeliers in the mosque.  There are 7 crystal chandeliers around the halls and foyers. And the largest of them is in the main prayer hall. It is said to be world’s largest chandelier in a mosque weighing about 12 tonnes. Glass panels studded with Swarowski cyrstals were installed in all these chandeliers.

These are the 3 chandeliers and the view of the main prayer hall which can accommodate 40000 people. The main prayer hall also houses world’s largest hand-knotted carpet. Predominantly a woolen carpet, there are Islamic medallion design and they were hand crafted by roughly 1200 artisans and took two years to design, knot and transport.

The lighting system used for the domes represent Lunar illumination reflecting the phases of moon. Blueish Gray colour is projected onto the facades and domes.  Each day the colour changes depending on the phase of the moon. As the moon progresses from crescent to full moon, the lightening becomes darker.

Best time to visit the Grand Mosque

The fascination to seeing buildings and monuments at night never fades.  We visited the mosque just in time before sunset . And we were just plain lucky to experience the mosque both at day light and night. 

When the magical hour struck, the mosque turned into a kaleidoscope of colors and glittered through the night. Although we only got a glimpse of the mosque during the day light for a very short time, but no complaints.

The twilight skies gave a classy touch to the already opulent mosque.  The arches were shimmering and reflecting in the outside pool. This provided a fantastic photo opportunity to me. The tall white marble pillars were embellished with a gold at the top to resemble a palm tree. Entry to the mosque is via these imposing columns and the marble work were nothing but exotic.

The opulent mosque, the arches, the intricate work on the marbles, grand chandelier and carpet left us totally speechless.  Certainly making it one of the beautiful masterpiece architectures of UAE and an icon of Abu Dhabi. The Grand Mosque is a symbol of grandeur, sheer elegance and tranquility. If you are touring Abu Dhabi, there’s no doubt you need to add Grand Mosque to your itinerary.

Dress Code & Manners

• Conservative clothing for women covering legs, hands, shoulders, neck and head. Trousers for men.
• All women must wear Abaya (traditional robe) and Shayla (headscarf) which are provided at the mosque itself.
• Avoid tight and transparent clothing.
• Shorts are not allowed. 
• Shoes must be removed before entering the mosque prayer hall. 
• Intimate behaviour / public display of affection is prohibited.
• Do not touch any displays like Holy Quran or any other architectural elements in the prayer hall. 
• Food/drinks not allowed, and goes without saying – its a no smoking zone. 

Practical Information

The Abaya service can get extremely crowded when hiring and returning the robe.  Wearing an appropriate clothing (likes of yoga pants/loose pants/full skirt covering legs) with a full hand top, and a thick scarf to cover head/neck, you can skip the Abaya service, and enter the mosque directly.

Wear sandals/ flip flop instead of shoes.  It’s easy to get into the mosque this way and avoid the hasle of shoes.

During Ramadan, Fridays and other islamic festivals, the visiting hours may be restricted or it may vary. Therefore, always check the website for any such information.  

Visit the mosque just before the sunset, so you get to see both during the day light and nightlights. 

Hotels in Abu Dhabi

The Abu Dhabi EDITION is a waterfront property with 198 stylish bedrooms. It is also pocket friendly. Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island is a glitzy hotel offering lovely views of old Abu Dhabi. The St. Regis Abu Dhabi is home to world’s highest suspended hotel suite with city’s best beach clubs and pristine beach around.

Have you been to Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi? Share your experience here. 

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18 Responses

Chaitali Patel

Stunning monument and beautifully captured through your photos! Thank you for showing me this masterpiece! 🙂

Fascinating structure! Beautifully captured!

Steps Together

Lovely post

I have been to this mosque and I agree that it is extremely pretty. I loved the chandeliers and the interiors of this mosque. Very beautiful and a must see when in UAE.

Great details and tips. Thanks so much for sharing. Your photos are really amazing. The colors on the chandelier and glass windows are just beautiful.

Beautiful photos! Can’t wait to visit one day!

Sophia Bawany

One of THE best Mosque in the UAE. The inlaid mosaic work is truly stunning and they have done an amazing job highlighing the best of Islamic architecture with the domes and as well as overall design of the grounds.

Kayaking The Eastern Mangrove Forests Of Abu Dhabi

[…] Recommended Reading: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi […]

Nicole Anderson

Renata Green

Wow, this mosque is amazing: So beautiful – however, I’m actually more impressed by its size. I’m not sure if I’ve ever visited such a huge mosque before. Also, those majestic structures are always even more sophisticated when painted in white. In this case, those humongous chandeliers add some vivid color.

Ramya Pandey

This is breathtakingly beautiful. But more than that the whole white element fills once with peace and tranquility. I loved the shimmer of colors and it was because you visited at the right time. Dusk is a beautiful time to witness any place and experience the change in the landscape. This is worth visiting once in life.

Abu Dhabi is still on my bucket list. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is so impressive; the architecture is stunning. I hope to visit this place. You provide so informatively and useful tips on how to visit this place, which is great!

Now THAT is one impressive mosque!! I haven’t been to the one in Dubai to compare them, but it’s hard to imagine one more beautiful than that could exist. Adding it to my bucketlist!

Jayati | Between Longitudes

Totally stunned by the architecture and opulence! Its beautiful. The crystal chandeliers are so gorgeous. Your photographs are brilliant too. Believe, you captured the mosque during various times of the day.

The Grand Mosque looks incredible. I’d love to visit. The details on the decorative work are so amazing, I can see why it’s a wonderful place to visit. I haven’t been to UAE but this would be on my list if I do

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Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Guided Tour

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. 

Abu Dhabi International Airport

Day 1 highlights

Number of stops

Total Distance

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.

Zayed International Airport, Abu Dhabi

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.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

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

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

Frequently asked questions about Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

How much does it cost to visit sheikh zayed mosque.

Entry to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is free.

How long does the tour inside the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque take?

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque offers free guided walk-in tours for both individuals and groups.  The tour takes approximately 30-45 minutes. Visitors should aim to  arrive 15 minutes before their scheduled tour.

What is in the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque?

The mosque features 82 domes, more than 1,000 columns, 24-carat-gold gilded chandeliers and the world's largest hand-woven carpet. The main prayer hall is dominated by one of the world’s largest chandeliers.

How many chandeliers are there in Sheikh Zayed Mosque?

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque features seven crystal chandeliers by Faustig of Munich, Germany. The largest is 10 metres wide, 15 metres tall and weighs 12 tonnes.

What is the capacity of Sheikh Zayed Mosque?

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque has one of the largest prayer halls in the world with a capacity for 40,000 worshippers at any given time.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre

• Fri,12 Apr 2024
• Shawwal 3, 1445
• Time: 09:48 AM

• Chairman’s message
• DG's message
• Board Members
• Organizational structure
• Sheikh Zayed and the Grand Mosque
• Phases of Construction
• Vision, Mission & Values
• Official Delegates
• Tour Operators
• Lost & Found
• Suggestions and Complaints
• Media Requests
• e-participation
• Photo Gallery
• Video Gallery
• About The Library
• Library Services
• Publications
• Al Jami’ library’s 360 Virtual Tour
• Exhibitions
• Social Initiatives
• Spaces of Light
• “Ewan Aljami” Workshop
• Children's Handbook
• The Mosque’s Walkway
• SZGMC cultural programs
• Friday Sermon
• Ramadan Activities
• HIjri Calendar
• General Architecture

Lunar illumination

Chandeliers, reflective pools.

• Suggestions

General architecture

Architecture: Carpets

Pulpit (Menbar)

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Dear Visitor,

(Does not include worshippers) To enter the mosque and Souq Al Jami ’All, visitors 16 years old and above must display ‘ green pass ‘ status on Al-Hosn App.

pre-booking is obligatory during your visit to the mosque: 1. Obtaining an access pass online by clicking on the following link: ( https://visit.szgmc.gov.ae/ ). 2. Dress appropriately, and observe the mosque’s dress code.

Starting from Friday, August 20, 2021 All visitors must be vaccinated and status must show green on AlHosn app. Excluding : - Those exempted from vaccinations, as per the approved procedures ,and appears on their status in AlHosn app. - Children under 16

Pre-booking is obligatory during your visit to the mosque: 1. Obtaining an access pass online by clicking on the following link: ( https://visit.szgmc.gov.ae/ ). 2. Dress appropriately, and observe the mosque’s dress code.

Starting from 17 March 2022 In line with the precautionary measures in force, all residents and tourists (applicable to those above 16 years of age) must show 'green' status on Alhosn app.

* Visitors who are not vaccinated must present a negative PCR result no more than 48 hours.

* Visitors coming from outside the UAE and who face difficulties using Alhosn App they then can show an internationally approved vaccine certificate which testifies that they have taken two doses and a negative PCR test taken during the 14 days.

* Important note for visitors:

* pre-book and obtain an access pass card online through the following link ( https://visit.szgmc.gov.ae/ )

* Please adhere to the mosque's dress code.

Starting from 15 June 2022 In line with the precautionary measures in force, all residents and tourists (applicable to those above 16 years of age) must show 'green' status on Alhosn app.

* Pre-book and obtain a free online access pass through the following link: ( https://visit.szgmc.gov.ae )

* Due to sudden maintenance work. Visiting doors will be closed on Friday, July 01, 2022 during the morning period only, from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm and it will resume at 3:00 PM

Starting from 01 January 2022 In line with the precautionary measures in force, all residents and tourists (applicable to those above 16 years of age) must show 'green' status on Alhosn app.

Starting from 05 December 2021 In line with the precautionary measures in force, all residents and tourists (applicable to those above 16 years of age) must show ‘green’ status on Alhosn app.

* Visitors coming from outside the UAE and who face difficulties using Alhosn App they then can show an internationally approved vaccine certificate which testifies that they have taken two doses and a negative PCR test taken during the 14 days. Worshipers are excluded from these measures.

In line with the precautionary measures in force, all residents and tourists (applicable to those above 16 years of age) must show ‘green’ status on Alhosn app.

*Visitors coming from outside the UAE and who face difficulties using Alhosn App they then can show an internationally approved vaccine certificate which testifies that they have taken two doses and a negative PCR test taken during the 14 days. Worshipers are excluded from these measures.

*Important note for visitors:

* Please adhere to the mosque's dress code .

(Excluding Worshipers), pre-booking is obligatory during your visit to the mosque: 1. Obtaining an access pass online by clicking on the following link: ( https://visit.szgmc.gov.ae/ ). 2. Dress appropriately, and observe the mosque’s dress code.

We would like to thank you for your cooperation.

Dear SZGMC ’s Worshippers and Visitors, The Centre would like to announce that the mosque will be temporarily closed for visitors, starting from Sunday 15 March 2020, in order to carry out the disinfection operation of the mosque and its facilities to ensure the well-being and safety of Emiraties, residents and visitors. This comes within the preventative efforts and measures taken by all public institutions and entities across the UAE to counter coronavirus.

In addition, all the mosque’s visitors and SZGMC’s Instagram (szgmc_ae) followers worldwide can also join the live cultural tours broadcast, according to the language chosen for the tours:

Dear SZGMC 's Worshippers and Visitors, The Centre would like to announce that the mosque will be temporarily closed for visitors, starting from Sunday 15 March 2020, in order to carry out the disinfection operation of the mosque and its facilities to ensure the well-being and safety of Emiraties, residents and visitors. This comes within the preventative efforts and measures taken by all public institutions and entities across the UAE to counter coronavirus.

We would like to thank you for your cooperation. We look forward to having you join our exclusive remote cultural tours. All government and private institutions have the opportunity to apply for exclusive remote cultural tours at the mosque, by registering via the Center's website. In addition, all the mosque's visitors and SZGMC's Instagram (szgmc_ae) followers worldwide can also join the live cultural tours broadcast, according to the language chosen for the tours:

Cultural tours in Arabic: Every Sunday of the week, at 5:30 pm. Every Tuesday of the week, at 11:00 am.

Cultural tours in English: Every Thursday of the week, at 8:00 pm Every Saturday of the week, at 11:00 am.

• Tel. No.: +971 2 4191919
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Page last updated on:  April 12 2024 at 09:48:19

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Best time to visit the Grand Mosque - Abu Dhabi Forum

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Best time to visit the Grand Mosque

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Im planning on visiting the Grand Mosque but not sure when is the best time of day to go. I initially thought first thing when it opens at 9am as perhaps its slightly cooler then but I have also read that its beautiful to see it at sunset. Can anyone give advice? If i visit in the morning I would also appreciate some tips on nearby places to stop for breakfast either before or afterwards.

Many Thanks :)

It is amazing at any time of the day but many people like to see it in both daylight and illuminated at night, so you could check the time of sunset and plan to be there an hour before. Whilst it will be hot outside, the prayer hall and other indoor areas are air-conditioned. I guess it depends on how long you want to stay.

Where are you coming from and how are you travelling ? There is nothing in the immediate area but there are a number of hotels, restaurants and cafes at Qaryat al Beri which is pretty close. Otherwise, the mosque is only 20 mins from the city or Yas Island. http://visitabudhabi.ae/en/see.and.do/shopping/lifestyle.and.community/souk.qaryat.al.beri.aspx

We went at 6 PM yesterday. It was quite hot but very manageable. We stayed for around an hour and it was lovely to see the lights on the building. It was around 25 mins in a taxi, taxi wad 40 aed.

Depending on how long you have in AD, you could do a tour in the morning and then go back to see it at sunset. It really is very spectacular.

As Sharp says, the nearest food/drinks would be in Bain Al Jasrain (Qaryat Al Bari) and there are hotels, restaurants and a souk (although not very traditional). You also have the Ritz Carlton which is very close to the mosque.

We are staying at the St Regis and will probably travel there by taxi. I guess the idea of going before sunset is good then we get to see it lit up as well then probably stop off somewhere in Yas Island for dinner on the way back.

Thank you all for the info! :)

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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• 10 Tips for Visiting Abu Dhabi as a Woman

P lanning on visiting Abu Dhabi as a woman? Not sure how to prepare or what to pack for this city? This guide will walk you through my top ten tips for solo female travel in Abu Dhabi, or for females traveling here in general. Let’s dive in to discover how to navigate visiting Abu Dhabi as a woman now!

If you’ve been here for a while, then you already know – I spend a lot of time in the Middle East. And, Abu Dhabi is a place I’ve visited many times over throughout the years.

But, the Middle East is one of the trickiest regions to navigate traveling as a female. It can be hard to know what to wear or how to get around safely.

In this guide, I’m going to give you my top tips for visiting Abu Dhabi as a female. I will cover everything from safety and transportation to things to see and how to dress.

I’ll also tackle cultural expectations and nuances to be aware of. By the end of this article, you’ll be feeling confident and calm about traveling to Abu Dhabi.

And, I can almost guarantee that all the women traveling to Abu Dhabi will appreciate this incredible city as much as I do!

Abu Dhabi Evening Desert Safari

Experience dune bashing, sandboarding, camel farms and more!

Have a traditional dinner at a Bedouin camp.

Roundtrip Abu Dhabi hotel or airport transfers included.

BOOK YOUR DESERT SAFARI HERE!

Top Tips for Visiting Abu Dhabi as a Woman

If you are feeling anxious or unsure about visiting Abu Dhabi as a female, you are in the right place.

Below you’ll find tips about safety, how to dress, where to stay, how to get around, and much much more.

1. Safety for females in Abu Dhabi

The most common concern about traveling to Abu Dhabi as a female centers around safety.

This is understandable, since the Middle East is shrouded in a bit of mystery for westerners and is covered in an unflattering light on most western news channels.

Let me be the first to tell you, you will feel extremely safe when visiting Abu Dhabi as a woman. Both Abu Dhabi and Dubai are safe, clean, and relaxed.

As a solo female in Abu Dhabi, I’ve experienced mostly kindness, a fair amount of curiosity, and a friendly willingness to help.

It is helpful to know, Abu Dhabi has been named the safest city in the world for the sixth year in a row in 2023. So, it is not only my personal experience that Abu Dhabi is safe – it is am=n all around fact.

If at any time you need to review current recommendations on travel to the UAE, you can do so here .

Pro Tip: If you still feel nervous, consider taking this Birdie personal safety device (good for all destinations you may visit as a solo female!) and carry my favorite crossbody bag . It is slash-proof and RFID protective. Both will help you feel super secure!

2. How to dress in Abu Dhabi for women.

Women traveling to Abu Dhabi should come prepared to dress conservatively throughout their stay. While this probably comes as no surprise, it can be tough to known what to wear in Abu Dhabi as a woman!

Luckily, I can help with that. The United Arab Emirates as a whole is quite conservative. But there is also a huge number of expats living here.

This creates a big mix of clothing styles that you’ll observe.

In particular, if you visit Dubai , you will likely notice women here and there not dressed conservatively at all. And, confusingly, they will be relatively near women covered in head to toe abayas and hijabs.

I always advise visitors to any country, but particularly females, to dress in a way that is acceptable to the local culture. I figure, you are a guest in their country, so best to adapt to their norms.

Here are my top recommendations that every female in Abu Dhabi should pack to stay both conservative and comfortable. Think of this as your Abu Dhabi dress code for female tourists.

A Long Kimono

On every single trip I take to Abu Dhabi, I pack a full length kimono that is modest yet stylish, in my opinion.

I love long kimonos, since they cover your hips and waist in loose fabric. This is ideal in Muslim countries so as not to attract attention. It will also keep you cool and comfortable. Get yours here!

A Short Kimono

If you prefer a more casual look,  this shorter kimono , is a great option! It has loose, opaque fabric yet still keeps you covered.

Bonus, I typically use a short kimono as a bathing suit cover up too, when I swim in the hotel pool. Get yours here!

A Plain Tank Top

A tank top like  this simple option  has a not-too-low neckline and is loose enough to breathe – even in the intense summer sun.

Bonus, it comes in loads of colors to choose from, and is super breathable! Get yours here.

Fitted Leggings

A must when visiting Abu Dhabi as a woman is a pair of thick black leggings.  These leggings are soft yet sturdy, with a nice high waistband and opaque fabric.

Pair them with a long and loose top, like either kimono above for modesty. Reuse them for hotel gym workouts, too. Get yours here!

Loose Palazzo Pants

I love love love to pack flowy palazzo pants when traveling to conservative countries with hot temperatures. These are great for hot and sweaty summer days, or for entering mosques.

You can choose everything from bold bright colors to muted tones. Get yours here!

Simple Basic Tees

Toss in at least one shirt like this in a solid color to wear under the kimonos or with printed pants.

The solid color won’t contrast with your patterned clothing and they make mixing and matching quick and easy. Get yours here!

A Loose Cardigan

Definitely add a loose cardigan to your Abu Dhabi packing list, especially if you happen to be visiting in the cooler months.

It’s also great to have on hand for air-conditioned spaces, so I do tend to pack it year round. Get yours here.

You May Also Like : Is Dubai Safe for Solo Female Travel?

A Sheer Scarf

I personally love these sheer lightweight scarves  for the Middle East, as they are more thin and breathable than others. Always have one on hand for entering mosques.

I have this exact scarf in several different colors and love it! Get yours here.

A Heavier Scarf

If you are visiting Abu Dhabi in the winter months, you should also add a heavier scarf to your list.

Nights can get chilly, and this one comes in several different colors. Get yours here!

A Cute One Piece

In hotel swimming pools, bikinis are fairly common. But on public beaches, you may feel more comfortable wearing a  one-piece bathing suit .

This is the best way to cut down on unwanted stares and frankly it just feels more respectful this way. Get yours here!

If you follow the Abu Dhabi dress code for female tourists above, you are bound to feel comfortable, modest, and respectful all at once.

That is the perfect trifecta when visiting Abu Dhabi as a woman!

3. Know that solo female travel in Abu Dhabi is still not so common.

For all the solo women visiting Abu Dhabi and the UAE as a whole, remember – you are an anomaly.

Perhaps you, like me, pride yourself in the fact that you fearlessly solo female travel across continents, excited to explore everything the world has to offer. I hear you, sister! I’m with you!

I would just advise that while you’re visiting Abu Dhabi as a woman, remember that you are an anomaly. In this part of the world, a woman traveling alone is still outside of the norm.

At the same time, don’t let this make you fearful. Here is what to expect.

You will get some curious stares, but besides that, you will mostly be left alone. United Arab Emirates is a Muslim country, and many locals live in Abu Dhabi. These locals will treat you with respect, give you space, but are also willing to help should you need or ask for it.

Be sure to check out my article on what not to do in Dubai , as it is applicable for Abu Dhabi, as well.

4. Where to stay in Abu Dhabi as a female.

The most important thing to know is that Abu Dhabi is extremely safe. So no matter where you stay, you will likely not have trouble, per se.

However, some areas are more desirable for tourists due to the ease of getting to attractions, restaurants, and sights.

For all of you planning on visiting Abu Dhabi as a woman, here are my top three hotel suggestions for both location and safety. I’ll include a budget, mid range, and luxury option below, depending on your specific travel style.

Pro Tip: While hostels were not a thing in the UAE as recently as ten years ago, now they are starting to crop up more commonly. They all generally have female only rooms, which is great for anyone traveling alone as a woman in Abu Dhabi. For shoestring travelers, check hostel prices here !

Budget Option: The Ibis Abu Dhabi Gate

This budget-friendly hotel is perfect for anyone who wants accommodations in a central location without breaking the bank.

The Ibis is a well known chain across the country. This specific hotel offers free Wifi, clean rooms, a sparkling pool, and kitchen facilities in some room options. It is an easy ride away from some of the top sights on this list.

BOOK THE IBIS ABU DHABI GATE HERE!

Mid-range Option: Corniche Hotel Abu Dhabi

The Corniche is a pretty walkway along the Arabian Sea in Abu Dhabi.

The Corniche Hotel Abu Dhabi has spacious rooms and suites with hardwood floors, flat-screen TVs and floor-to-ceiling windows with garden or Gulf views.

The on-site health club features an outdoor swimming pool with sunken bar, a sauna and a gym. The hotel is about 30 minutes from Abu Dhabi’s airport.

BOOK THE CORNICHE HOTEL ABU DHABI HERE!

Luxury Option: Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island

Looking for more of a splurge on your trip to Abu Dhabi? Then check out the gorgeous Hilton on Yas Island, near Waterworld and Ferrari World.

All rooms are equipped with a mini bar, a flat screen TV, and coffee maker. The rooms include a work station, balconies, and floor–to–ceiling windows with great views.

Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island is also equipped with a 24-hour fitness center and separate female and male facilities for the whirlpool, steam room, sauna, and more.

BOOK THE HILTON ABU DHABI YAS ISLAND HERE!

5. How to get around when visiting Abu Dhabi as a woman.

Abu Dhabi is a large enough city that it is unrealistic to walk everywhere when visiting.

Sure, you can walk short distances from your hotel if you are in a central location. But, overall, you will need some type of transportation in order to see everything here.

You have a few options as a tourist in Abu Dhabi. Taxis are widely available around the city, and never seem to be far from where you may be.

If you prefer to book via an app, consider using Uber or Careem. Both are rideshare apps that are available in both Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Check out some reasons on why you might prefer a rideshare app over a taxi in my solo female taxi safety article.

Unfortunately, Abu Dhabi does not have a metro system like Dubai does, so the best fast and affordable options for tourists are rideshare apps and taxis.

6. Top things to do in Abu Dhabi as a woman.

Women, and even solo females in Abu Dhabi, can enjoy just about any of the attractions that groups of friends and families would frequent.

Visitors to Abu Dhabi will have a vast spectrum of attractions to choose from. Outdoor adventures, leisure activities, theme parks, shopping, and cultural experiences are all easy to find here.

So here are some of the top attractions and things to do (that I personally recommend seeing!) when visiting Abu Dhabi as a woman.

You Ma y Also Like : Reasons to Visit Dubai

Visit Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is the must see attraction for anyone visiting Abu Dhabi, women or men alike.

This impressive architectural marvel is a glimmering white, with intricately detailed tiles and mosaics dotting the walls and sprawling across the outdoor courtyard. The grand chandelier and massive ornate carpet are both decorative and grand.

Pro Tip: Get all the details on how to visit and what not to do here in my Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque article. It is an absolute must-see attraction in Abu Dhabi!

Women will need a lightweights scarf to cover their head and hair. Don’t forget it!

The enormous mosque has the capacity to hold 40,000 worshippers, and is welcoming of non-Muslims as long as they follow the dress code and etiquette.

Pro Tip: Book a tour for the Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque and make your journey stress free. This highly rated tour includes transportation and additional sights in Abu Dhabi!

Book an Abu Dhabi Desert Safari

An Abu Dhabi Desert safari is one of those can’t-miss experiences when visiting Abu Dhabi as a woman! You can book your desert safari every day of the week, year round.

If you like a good adrenaline rush, you’ll absolutely love dune bashing, which is speeding across the desert dunes in a 4WD vehicle. It is pretty incredible, how skilled the drivers are on such a shifting terrain.

You’ll also visit camel farms, which is one of my favorite parts! I really love their unique personalities. Enjoy a traditional dance show, a barbecue dinner, henna, and much more.

Pro Tip: One of my very first safari drivers many years ago was Mohammed, who now owns his own tourism company Aladdin Adventure . He also offers a sunrise safari tour, if you need an early departure. Mohammed can basically customize your tour to fit exactly what you need. Contact him on WhatsApp at +971 58 180 6064 (definitely tell him Monica sent you for some extra special treatment!)

Take in Qasr Al Watan’s beauty.

Qasr Al Watan is a grand, awe-inspiring attraction that is a part of Abu Dhabi’s Presidential Palace Complex. This ornate building gives you a glimpse into the region’s unmatched, extraordinary style.

Every corner of Qasr Al Watan is dripping in gold and crystals. The tilework is impeccable.

Here you can explore the Great Hall, the Presidential Banquet, a Presidential Gifts Collection, Governance and Spirit of Collaboration, House of Knowledge and Qasr Al Watan Library, which is stocked with more than 50,000 books.

Pro Tip: Book a combo tour of Qasr Al Watan, the Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque (above), and Emirates Palace for one low price. Transfers, entrance fees, and additional stops are included! It’s a fabulous deal. BOOK YOUR COMBO TOUR HERE!

Visit the grand Emirates Palace.

The imposing, five-star Emirates Palace Hotel is a quintessential photo stop on any Abu Dhabi city tour . The view out over the city is incredible, showcasing the new skyscrapers as you stand inside of old luxury.

For a unique experience during your tour , visit Le Café, located inside the building. Live like royalty as you indulge in ice creams, cappuccino and coffees, and fruit tarts adorned with real 23 Karat gold flakes.

Need more inspiration for your visit to the UAE? My Dubai & Abu Dhabi Travel Guide is jam-packed with attractions and tips for both areas.

Take a Liwa Desert Safari.

For anyone who wants to get off the beaten path and into the real Arabian Desert, then a Liwa Desert Safari is the place for you! Here you can immerse yourself in the heart of the desert’s vast dunes.

Visit local camel farms, explore the orange sand dunes, and camp overnight for a unique and memorable experience. Whether it’s for a day trip or an extended excursion, Liwa Desert Safari provides an unforgettable escape into the Arabian Desert.

Pro Tip: Liwa sits several hours from Abu Dhabi’s downtown area, and you will need an expert guide to embark on this excursion. This is not a trip you can do alone. The dunes are endless, and few can truly navigate this region. BOOK YOUR LIWA TOUR HERE!

With an experienced and knowledgeable guide, you will have access to areas of Liwa that are often hard to reach on your own. The guides will teach you about the local culture, flora and fauna, and help you explore hidden oases in this unique environment.

Go Kayaking among the mangroves.

Wouldn’t have guessed that Abu Dhabi has natural mangroves in its ecosystem?

Yeah, I wouldn’t have either – until I saw them for myself!

Abu Dhabi’s hidden gem, Eastern Mangrove National Park, offers an opportunity to explore the region’s untouched natural beauty through eco-tours and kayaking sessions .

Visitors can observe the diverse wildlife, mangroves and stunning views while learning about the importance of conservation in the area.

Pro Tip: While I’ve seen other cheaper mangrove tours listed, note that they do not include transportation to and from the park. If you want door to door air-conditioned transportation, definitely book this kayaking tour .

With its unique blend of marine life and protected natural areas, Mangrove National Park promises a very unique experience for all who visit!

BOOK YOUR MANGROVE TOUR HERE!

Get your adrenaline pumping at Ferrari World.

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is popular tourist destination in Abu Dhabi is the world’s Ferrari branded theme park. It has many exciting Ferrari-themed rides including some of the world’s fastest roller coasters!

You can also take a photo next to a bright red Ferrari, or shop ’til you drop for car-themed souvenirs.

In the summer, hit Yas Waterworld.

For the mermaids at heart, or for anyone looking to beat Abu Dhabi’s summer heat, one of the best places to visit is easily Yas Waterworld.

This water park is built to honor the region’s pearl diving tradition, which I was lucky enough to learn about at Ras Al Khaimah’s Suwaidi Pearl Farm . Yas Waterworld offers a wide range of water rides and attractions to keep you entertained all day long

See the art at the incredible Louvre Abu Dhabi.

The Louvre Abu Dhabi is impressive for many reasons, both based on what you see outside as well as in.

Firstly, the architecture is stunning, with a detailed domed roof and slick modern lines. Secondly, the art the museum houses is top tier!

The exhibition design of Louvre Abu Dhabi explores the connections between civilizations and cultures, even ones that appear distant in time and geography. The display follows a chronological and theme-based structure, covering various periods and civilizations.

Visit Abu Dhabi’s Falcon Hospital.

The falcon is a celebrated bird in Abu Dhabi, as well as greater United Arab Emirates as well as other Gulf countries.

The UAE’s national bird, the falcon, has played a significant role in Emirati culture and heritage. Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital, the first and largest of its kind globally, provides expert medical care for these birds.

Find current hours and details for visiting here .

7. Note that your tour guides will likely all be male.

The vast majority of tour guides all over the UAE tend to be male. That holds true in Abu Dhabi.

So if you are visiting Abu Dhabi as a woman, know in advance to expect a male driver and/or guide.

Overall, this should not be a problem, since the traditional Muslim values dictate that a man treat a woman with respect. But if you are taking a tour solo and feel at all uncomfortable, be sure to sit in the back of the car.

Pro Tip: My article on solo female taxi safety has a few gems of wisdom that are applicable to solo females on tours with male guides.

8. Take advantage of “ladies only” deals.

One great thing for anyone visiting Abu Dhabi as a woman is to take advantage of “ladies only” days at local establishments.

Because the UAE is a Muslim country, and comingling of the sexes isn’t encouraged, you will be able to find some ladies-only establishments. Or, at the very least, ladies-only days at establishments.

For example, Yas Waterworks always hosts a ladies only day, as do many local gyms. Some beaches offer ladies-only sections and you’ll easily identify ladies versus men’s salons and barber shops.

If you are going out for a night, many clubs have ladies nights, which offer free entry or free drinks, or a combination of the two.

Pro Tip: To avoid a public snafu, be sure to read my article on Alcohol in Dubai . It applies to Abu Dhabi, too, and will let you know all the guidelines before you drink.

9. The best time of year for visiting Abu Dhabi as a woman.

I can now say that I’ve visited Abu Dhabi in all seasons. Heck, I’ve basically been there in all months of the year, too!

So the best time of year for visiting Abu Dhabi as a woman depends on what you plan to do, or what your preference is weather-wise. Let’s chat about the seasons and options.

In general, the most popular time to visit Abu Dhabi and Dubai is in the winter . But, the best time to avoid crowds is easily the summer.

Here is a season-by-season breakdown on the seasons in Abu Dhabi:

December to February – Winter in Abu Dhabi

Winter is the peak season for visiting Abu Dhabi due to milder temperatures and lower humidity compared to the summer. The region enjoys ample sunshine and warm conditions, with a slight chance of rain.

This is also when Abu Dubai comes to life with a calendar of incredible holiday and outdoor events.

Evenings are cooler, and during the winter months, the ocean may feel too cold to swim in. However, many hotels offer heated pools as an alternative for guests to enjoy.

March to May – Spring in Abu Dhabi

The shoulder season is an ideal time to visit Abu Dhabi. During this period, the temperatures are slightly warmer compared to the summer months, but without the intense heat.

The spring season is a great time to visit Abu Dhabi, as well. You can enjoy the warmer weather and not-so-cold water at the beach while avoiding the winter crowds.

Additionally, travel during these months tends to be more affordable compared to peak season. It’s a win-win!

June to August – Summer in Abu Dhabi

Summers in Abu Dhabi are extremely hot here. The bright sun shines aggressively down with temperatures regularly hovering in the triple digits.

During this season, there are fewer tourists visiting. Spending time on the beach or by the pool is more suitable for those who love the sun and hate the crowds.

Because summer is the low season in Abu Dhabi, you are more likely to get great hotel deals and activity discounts that you would never see in the winter months. So budget travelers, this is your time!

September to November – Autumn in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi begins to cool off in the month of September, with temperatures trending downward the further into autumn you go.

Similar to spring, the weather is warm and sunny but not sweltering, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as an evening desert safari or kayaking in the mangroves . Take advantage of the last deals on accommodations as the tourism season begins to pick up.

10. Visas and entry requirements.

One of the most dreaded rookie moves any traveler can make is not have the required travel documents and visas for any given destination. Ladies, check your requirements carefully.

If you are from the USA like me, note that American women in Abu Dhabi can enter the UAE for up to 30 days on a tourist visa. You can collect this visa on arrival at either DXB, AUD, or even one of the smaller international airports.

Pro Tip: Oftentimes, the airlines from the Middle East will state the exact requirements you will need, both in terms of visas and any health forms. Always double check these against the country’s stated requirements, which you will find here .

The entry process at Abu Dhabi’s international airport (AUH) is extremely simple. There is ample signage and airport agents are willing to help point you in the right direction.

Pro Tip: Keep all of your documents in order by using this handy passport holder . I absolutely love mine and it helps me stay organized even when carrying loads of bags and papers. GET YOUR PASSPORT HOLDER HERE!

Visiting Abu Dhabi as a Woman FAQs

For anyone who still has questions about visiting Abu Dhabi as a woman, hopefully these FAQs will cover them!

Keep reading for some of the top questions about traveling to Abu Dhabi as a woman or a solo female.

What are the rules for female tourists in Abu Dhabi?

There are both legal rules and cultural norms that women visiting Abu Dhabi should be aware of.

For example, don’t eat in public during the holy month of Ramadan. This is strictly forbidden. Additionally, you should avoid taking pictures of certain government buildings and don’t snap any pictures of locals, particularly Emirati women, without express permission. Note that PDA is not allowed in Abu Dhabi.

When visiting mosques, such as the Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque , be sure to cover yourself from head to toe, including a scarf or shawl over the head.

Do female tourists have to cover up in Abu Dhabi?

Female tourists in Abu Dhabi should cover up and remain conservative, regardless of how they dress at home. While there is no strict Abu Dhabi dress code for female tourists, be sure to pack long skirts and pants; scarves and shawls which you will need to enter mosques; and shirts that cover your shoulders, chest and waist.

Note that in order to visit Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque , your whole arms and legs must be covered, as well as your head.

My rule of thumb when visiting any country is to respect the local customs and dress more conservatively when the local women do so.

Can a single woman travel to Abu Dhabi?

Yes, single women can absolutely visit Abu Dhabi! The first time I visited Abu Dhabi and Dubai was as a solo female and it went overall very smoothly. I understand if you have nerves when visiting Abu Dhabi for the first time solo, but I can almost guarantee that you will have a great time.

Can you wear crop tops in Abu Dhabi?

No, it is not advised to wear crop tops in Abu Dhabi. While there is no specific law against it, except for in malls and mosques, it is in bad taste to dress very casually in this conservative country.

Can I take my girlfriend to a hotel in Abu Dhabi?

Nowadays, yes, it will not be a problem to travel as boyfriend and girlfriend and stay in the same hotel room. Roughly a decade ago, it was much more taboo and many hotels would not book rooms or apart-hotels for unmarried couples. Today, it is easy in most areas of Abu Dhabi.

Can you shake a woman’s hand in Abu Dhabi?

It is not expressly forbidden to shake a woman’s hand in Abu Dhabi, but note that physical touch between a man and woman who do not know each other is much less common here. The best tactic is to not hold out your hand, but rather, let her take the lead and see if she initiates it.

Can I kiss my girlfriend in Abu Dhabi?

Physical displays of affection are generally discouraged all around the UAE. This applies to Abu Dhabi as well. It will be in your best interest to save any kissing for your hotel room and not take part in any PDA while in public. It is technically against the law, and at best, culturally insensitive.

Is it safe to walk around Abu Dhabi at night?

Yes, it is extremely safe to walk around Abu Dhabi at night, even for women. As one of the safest cities in the world for many years running, Abu Dhabi is the kind of place where you can explore at night peacefully and without worry.

Where I can go alone in Abu Dhabi?

A larger list of the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi is above.

However, some of the best places to go alone in Abu Dhabi include:

• The Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque
• Louvre Abu Dhabi
• Qasar al Watan
• Book an evening desert safari
• The Corniche, Abu Dhabi
• A Liwa Desert safari
• Mangrove National Park, Abu Dhabi
• Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
• Emirates Palace

Is the UAE safe to visit as a woman?

Yes, the UAE is safe to visit as a woman. Both Abu Dhabi and Dubai both consistently rank as two of the safest cities in the world for many years running. Women in Abu Dhabi and Dubai can feel safe walking in groups or even alone.

You May Also Like: Is It Safe to Visit Dubai as a Solo Female?

Can you hug in public in Abu Dhabi?

It is not advisable for members of the opposite sex to hug in public in Abu Dhabi. A quick greeting hug, especially at the airport, will not raise any eyebrows. But extended hugging or holding will draw uncomfortable stares from locals.

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Where should I go next?

After visiting Abu Dhabi, I highly recommend heading to one of these emirates next!

Dubai has loads of things to do, from museums to sky diving to colorful flower gardens too. It is nothing short of flashy.

Ras Al Khaimah is the place for adventurers. If you like ziplining, hiking, and ocean adventures, Ras Al Khaimah is for you.

Facts About Abu Dhabi for Women:

• Abu Dhabi is the capital city of the United Arab Emirates . Though overshadowed by its neighbor Dubai , Abu Dhabi is also the larger city.
• Abu Dhabi’s literal meaning is Father of the Gazelle.
• Abu Dhabi is the region’s largest producer of dates. Be sure to pick up some luscious Medjool dates while vacationing here!
• Tipping is not required but is commonly practiced in Abu Dhabi. 10-15% is fine.
• Abu Dhabi has roughly 435 miles of coastline. Though you likely picture the desert when you think of Abu Dhabi, the Arabian Sea is quite beautiful here.
• Abu Dhabi is much quieter than Dubai. If you want to see more of the traditions and culture in the region, Abu Dhabi is the place to see it.
• Abu Dhabi is roughly two hours away from Dubai by car.
• More locals live in Abu Dhabi than Dubai. Dubai is filled with more expats. Learn more about their differences in my article, Dubai vs Abu Dhabi .
• If you need to reach the police in Abu Dhabi, dial 999.

Final Thoughts: Visiting Abu Dhabi as a Woman

Is Abu Dhabi safe for a woman traveling alone? And is Abu Dhabi safe for women in general?

Hands down the answer is yes.

Be sure to dress in a culturally sensitive way using my packing list above. Follow the laws on alcohol, public displays of affection, and male/female interactions and you will be just fine.

Abu Dhabi is a safe city for locals, tourists, males, and females alike. That means that anyone visiting Abu Dhabi as a woman can rest assured, by using common sense and practical planning, you should be just fine.

Need More Planning Resources for the UAE? Check These Out!

Dubai Travel:

• Is It Safe to Visit Dubai as a Solo Female?
• What to Wear in Dubai – Women’s Packing List
• 10 Things NOT to Do in Dubai
• Is Dubai Worth Visiting?
• Visiting the Wings of Mexico in Dubai
• Reasons to Visit Dubai
• The Golden Frame in Dubai
• Visiting the Dubai Miracle Garden
• Visiting Dubai in Winter Guide
• Doha vs. Dubai: Which Is Better?
• Can You Buy Alcohol in Dubai? Laws and Rules
• Is Dubai a Desert?

Abu Dhabi Travel:

• A Liwa Desert Safari – What to Know Before You Go
• 10 Things to Know Before Visiting the Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque
• Abu Dhabi Vs. Dubai – Which is Better?

Ras Al Khaimah & Sharjah Travel:

• Places to Visit in Ras Al Khaimah
• Visiting the Suwaidi Pearl Farm
• Where to See Arabian Oryx in Dubai & RAK
• Mysk al Badayer Retreat: A Complete Review

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The post 10 Tips for Visiting Abu Dhabi as a Woman appeared first on This Rare Earth .

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Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi hosts thousands for Laylat Al Qadr prayers

'night of destiny' marked by worshippers in the uae capital.

Thousands attended prayers at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, to mark Laylat Al Qadr on Friday. All photos: Victor Besa / The National

Thousands attended prayers at Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi on Friday to mark Laylat Al Qadr .

The Night of Destiny, as it is otherwise known, is one of the odd numbered nights during the last 10 days of Ramadan during which the first verses of the Quran were revealed to the Prophet Mohammed.

An entire chapter is devoted to the Night of Destiny in the final part of the Quran, where the night is described as “better than a thousand months”.

Reclusion is advised to mark the occasion as it is deemed a period of peace where the Earth’s energy is in tandem with the divinity of the night.

The night is said to be the highlight of Ramadan for thousands around the world who gather at mosques.