visit sheikh zayed mosque from dubai

Day Trip To The Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi From Dubai The Easy Way

It is the UAE’s most renowned and beautiful building, rated #3 landmark in the world by TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards, but how exactly can you visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi if you are flying in and out of Dubai?

The Grand Mosque has re-opened post-COVID, and border crossing restrictions between the Emirates have been abolished. As of 7 November 2022, you no longer require any sort of PCR testing , nor evidence of vaccination against COVID-19 in order to enter public spaces in Abu Dhabi emirate.

Things To Know About The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

How to get to the grand mosque from dubai, more facts and visitor information to know about visiting the sheikh zayed grand mosque as a tourist, best accommodation near the grand mosque in abu dhabi, more to see in abu dhabi.

Before diving into the details of how to get there, let’s look at just a few fabulous facts about the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (and why it is absolutely worth the day trip from Dubai !)

• The Grand Mosque is named after the country’s founding father, the Late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al-Nahyan   “May Allah rest his soul in peace”.
• The Mosque is an active house of worship, capable of housing 41,000 worshippers at capacity – 10,000 inside and 31,000 in the external courtyards.
• The building of the Mosque was completed in 2007 with the craftsmanship of 38 contractors and thousands of workers from around the world.
• It holds several “largest in the world” claims to fame – including the largest hand-woven carpet at 5,627 sqm and the largest marble mosaic floor in its 17,000 sqm courtyard.
• HH Sheikh Zayed is laid to rest in a mausoleum on the Mosque grounds. Two Imans read the Quran here 24 hours a day.

There are limited public transport options between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, as we discuss here , so our best-recommended method of getting from Dubai to Abu Dhabi to see the Grand Mosque are:

• Take A Taxi – approximately 1.5 hours, depending on where you set out from; expect to pay around AED 300-350 one-way for a metered taxi .
• Join A Tour Group – 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the departure point and how many pickups they make. A tour guide, meals, and multiple tourist stops are likely to be thrown in, so the price is very variable per person – more below!
• Hire a Private Driver – taking approximately 1.5 hours; this is the best choice if you prefer door-to-door service and like the personal touch – ideal if you are a family or small group looking to split the cost. You can try a service such as GetTransfer to have private drivers bid on your journey and get a competitive price.
• Self Drive – 1 to 1.5 hours – If you are a confident driver, pick up a hire car in Dubai and take the E11 all the way to Abu Dhabi.
• Take a public bus – 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on your starting point; more below!

Public Transport Dubai to Abu Dhabi to see the Grand Mosque

There are two different Intercity bus routes that you can take from Dubai to central Abu Dhabi, each costing AED 25 one way.

• The first bus leaves from Al Ghubaiba Bus Station ( Route 100 ) approx every 20-35 minutes and terminates at Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station (Al Wadha Mall)
• The second leaves from Ibn Battuta Mall ( Route 101 ) approx every 20-35 minutes and also terminates at Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station.

From Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station , you then need to catch a local Abu Dhabi bus service 94 to the Grand Mosque.

Note you can use your Nol card to get to Abu Dhabi on the InterCity bus, but from the Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station to the Grand Mosque, you need a Hafilat card to use local public transport in the capital.

You can learn more about the public bus service from Dubai to Abu Dhabi here

• Once you’re in Abu Dhabi, tourists can also avail the FREE Visit Abu Dhabi shuttle buses . They are not super frequent, but if you’re travelling on a budget, these can be a great way to get about in Abu Dhabi. Look for Route B2 (stops near Al Wadha Mall) to take you to the Grand Mosque.

Organised Tours From Dubai to Abu Dhabi

You can join a larger tour group and simply use this as a form of transportation or hire a personal guide and driver.

This can certainly take the stress out of self-driving, but do note a lot of the tour buses from Dubai arrive “en masse”. If you want crowd-free photos, self-driving , taxi or private Abu Dhabi tours are the better way to go.

Do I need to be Muslim to visit?

Not at all. The Grand Mosque is open to everyone as long as they treat it in a respectful way (including conservative dress).

There are certain areas of active worship and Friday mornings when visits are limited to worshippers only.

Otherwise, you can attend the Grand Mosque any time during opening hours.

Learn more about other Dubai mosques that allow visitors

What should I wear to the Grand Mosque ?

It is always advisable as a tourist in Abu Dhabi to dress conservatively . The Abu Dhabi Grand Mosque – and in fact, any religious or Government building in the UAE – has a much higher dress standard than, say, a Mall or public promenades.

For women, you must have arms and legs completely covered and your head. The only skin that can show is your hands, feet, and face.  If you are not adequately dressed (don’t worry, this applies to most tourists), you will be sent to purchase an abaya or Shayla in the adjoining boutiques as you enter the mosque. These are around AED 40 – 80 for something cheap.

This is all part of the experience, so embrace it! But please don’t think this means you should wear the skimpiest outfit underneath!

For men, they should be in long trousers and sleeves. If they have shorts on, they will also be asked to purchase something more suitable before entering.

Please note! since COVID the ability to hire appropriate clothing for free to enter the Grand Mosque has been suspended and doesn’t look like it will return. If you turn up with in appropriate clothing, you will be redirected by security staff to a small strip of shopping boutiques to buy the right attire. They are relatively inexpensive, but you may want to BYO from Dubai if you’re hitting the souks , consider it a souvenir of your time in the UAE!

Security stringently enforces the appropriate wearing of your outfits throughout your visit – you can find a really detailed guide to the Grand Mosque dress code here.

Note, part of the tour involves you taking off your shoes to walk through the Mosque itself; consider nice socks too, or having your toenails painted for this!! And remember where you left your shoes!!!

Do I need to pay to go into the Grand Mosque?

It’s absolutely free.  The Mosque is for the people; as such, no charge is levied on worshippers or visitors. Even cultural tours are provided for free.

However, they will issue you an entry ticket where you need to give some personal details. This can be done online in advance here to save time.

Do I need to book a tour of the Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi?

If you come with a tour guide, they may include a personal tour guide within the price you paid.

Otherwise, the best alternative option to make sure you get the best out of your Grand Mosque visit is to get involved with one of the FREE mosque cultural tours .

These are held throughout the day with no need to pre-book.

Opening times for the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

• Saturday through Thursday, 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM
• Friday 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM & 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM

Tours are conducted in English and Arabic and last around 45 minutes, with an opportunity to ask further questions at the end. It is not customary to tip for this tour.

Note opening hours and tour times are adjusted during the Holy Month of Ramadan – Find the revised opening hours for Ramadan here

For more on what to expect at the Grand Mosque including photography tips, see this article.

Abu Dhabi has plentiful accommodation choices. Our favourites close to the Grand Mosque, or with spectacular views back over the canal towards the Grand Mosque are:

• Pure Luxury: The Ritz Carlton Abu Dhabi
• Indulgent but fairly priced: The Fairmont Bab al Bahr
• Budget but excellent choice: Traders Hotel Qaryat Al Beri by Shangri-La

For a long time, the Grand Mosque was probably Abu Dhabi’s most prominent and the only drawcard getting tourists to trek the 160km journey from Dubai.

However, many more tourist highlights now warrant at least a full-day trip to Abu Dhabi, if not longer.

Look out for Abu Dhabi tours that will also include:

• The Louvre Abu Dhabi – a stunning Museum on Saadiyat Island that covers the history of humanity in a superb waterfront setting. Open Tuesday to Sunday; Closed Mondays. Paid Entry.
• Qasr al Watan – the Presidential Palace of the United Arab Emirates is a stunning new building to rival the beauty of the Grand Mosque. Open for daily tours . Paid Entry.
• Qasr al Hosn – a brilliant insight into the history of the United Arab Emirates and Abu Dhabi from early Bedouin days through to the discovery of oil, federation, and the modern-day city. Open Daily,Paid Entry .

We explain here how to get from Dubai to the Louvre and Qasr al Watan with a free shuttle service from Dubai. You can also check out our complete guide for things to do in Abu Dhabi over on our partner site www.abudhabitravelplanner.com for more of the city’s spectacular cultural sites and entertainment.

Before you go… More important things you should know when planning a trip to Dubai

• Pop into our essential planning information page, it includes everything you need to know about getting around Dubai , a handy guide on what to pack , and top tips for first-timers on the do’s and don’ts, laws, and customs to be aware of.
• Check out this incredible list of 150+ places you should visit when you’re in Dubai .
• Pick up a Dubai Pass from iVenture or a Go City Dubai Pass to save up to 50% on top Dubai attractions.
• Don’t forget to pack your travel insurance !!!
• Discover the best areas to stay in Dubai , or bag a bargain on your accommodation here:

Take me back to Explore the Emirates Here

Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE and transit passengers self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our recommendation links . Dubai Travel Planner

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Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Sheikh zayed grand mosque: the complete guide.

Juergen Sack/Getty Images 

For an experience that combines architectural wonder with spiritual contemplation, no trip to the United Arab Emirates is complete without a visit to Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi. A 90-minute drive from Dubai, this breathtaking mosque is one of the largest in the world, spanning 30 acres and with capacity for up to 40,000 worshippers. More than just another photo opportunity for your Instagram feed, a visit to Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a soul-stirring experience–and one that will leave a lasting impression.

A Brief History

Completed in December 2007, this spectacular space was built in honour of the first ruler of the UAE, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who is buried within the grounds. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque took 11 years to construct and cost and eye-popping 2 billion dirhams ($545 million). The result is an architectural marvel of gleaming white marble, 24-karat gold details and intricate stonework featuring semi-precious stones, such as lapis lazuli, amethyst, red agate and mother of pearl.

The mosque has 82 domes, more than 1000 columns, and one of the world’s largest chandeliers, a 33-foot, 12-ton extravaganza that graces the main prayer hall. Underneath this eye-popping light fixture lies the largest hand-knotted carpet on Earth, which took 1,200 artisans two years to make.

And while all of this opulence may sound excessive, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is far from gaudy. Instead, this spiritual site is a place of serenity and introspection, with graceful reflection pools and a sprawling central sahan (courtyard) surrounded by colonnaded walkways.

This marble masterpiece is spectacular at any time of day, but it becomes other-worldly come sunset. Time your visit to coincide with the evening call to prayer, as the muezzin’s melodic chant echoes through the courtyard and worshippers flock to the main prayer hall. Once the sun goes down, the mosque is illuminated in an awe-inspiring light show that mirrors the phases of the moon, bathing the white marble facade in ever-changing shades of lilac and blue.

As this is a place of Muslim worship, modesty is a must when visiting Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. That means no short, transparent or tight clothing–men and women must wear loose-fitting, ankle-length trousers or skirts, and have their arms covered.

Ladies, you’ll also have to wear a headscarf at all times, and even if you feel like you’ve nailed the dress code and brought your own scarf along, chances are you’ll be ushered into the changing rooms at the entrance and handed an abaya , a long hooded robe to wear over your clothes.

It’s also worth noting that the mosque is a shoe-free zone, so be prepared to leave your footwear at the communal racks inside.

Don’t Leave Without…

Paying a visit to the washrooms. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is home to some of the most stunning facilities we’ve ever seen. As ablution (ritual washing of the feet and hands) is central to Islamic worship, the underground washrooms are astonishing spaces of marble and semi-precious stones.

Food and Drink

You can’t take any food or drink inside the mosque grounds, but there is a branch of The Coffee Club at the North Gate entrance (near the souvenir shop) to refuel before or after your visit.

Opening hours

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is open to the public from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday to Thursday (last entrance at 9:30 p.m.). On Friday mornings, the mosque is open to worshippers only, with general admission commencing at 4:30 p.m. During the Holy Month of Ramadan, the mosque is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. (closed Fridays). As prayer timings change each day, it’s worth checking the timetable when planning your trip.

Complimentary one-hour guided tours run each day, offering insight into the architectural elements of the mosque and providing an introduction to the Islamic civilization. Tours run at 10 a.m., 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. Sunday to Thursday; 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Friday; and 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 2 p.m., 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturday.

Getting There

If you’re based in Dubai, you could join a one-day bus tour to Abu Dhabi, including a visit to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, with pick-up and drop-off at your hotel. If you’d prefer a more personalized experience, jump in a taxi for the 90-minute drive from Dubai to Abu Dhabi, for a cost of around 250 dirham each way. While you’re in town, pay a visit to the Louvre Abu Dhabi , a 20-minute drive from the mosque.

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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 .

How To Visit The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque from Dubai!

Categories Middle East , UAE

The Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Abu Dhabi also known as the Grand Mosque is quite a sight to be seen, and when you visit Dubai you need to travel to Abu Dhabi to see it! I spent 1 week in Dubai and on one of those days I took a day trip to the Sheikh Zayed Mosque from Dubai with my friend who lives in Dubai as she works for Emirates and it was a highlight of my time in Dubai!

You can get the bus to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque from Dubai or you can get a taxi as we did. Below is how to do both of these options going from Dubai to Abu Dhabi to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque from Dubai!

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque from Dubai

Keep Reading for how to visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque from Dubai!

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque from Dubai by Bus

Abu Dhabi is the capital of the UAE and its 150km South of Dubai. There’s a bus that runs from Dubai’s Downtown bus station to Abu Dhabi regularly (although I couldn’t find the exact times online), takes 2 hours and costs 25 AED/ £4.50.

However, after realising just how big Dubai is, how long it takes to get around and the fact that we would have needed to get a taxi from my friend’s apartment to the bus station to get the bus and then get a taxi from Abu Dhabi bus station to the Mosque totalling in a good 3+ hours each way plus 4 taxi fares we decided to just get a taxi from my friend’s apartment straight there.

Related Post:  10 Of The Best Spots in Dubai That You Need to Visit on a Girls Trip!

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque from Dubai by Taxi

Going via taxi from Dubai to the Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Abu Dhabi did cost a lot more at 250-275 AED/ £45-£50 each way but the drive only took us 90 minutes each way and the mosque is free to enter so that helped save on costs.

Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Abu Dhabi run’s free guided tours 3 times a day (except Fridays) at 10:00 am, 11:00 am and 5:00 pm.

We, unfortunately, got there just after 10:00 am just missing the tour but I really recommend you do plan your visit to go to one of the guided tours so you can learn more about the mosque and more about Islam.

As we arrived at the Mosque from the main road and made our way up to it and it was even bigger than I imagined. We got out of the taxi and made our way up to the entrance and it was so bright with the sun shining off that it hurt our eyes and we were glad we had sunglasses!

Update: If I was to do this trip again I’d do an organised tour from Dubai to Abu Dhabi so we had a guide to show us around the Mosque and be able to see some of Abu Dhabi City at the same time:

Straight away we had our phones and camera’s out as I could see the iconic gold and white detailed pillars with the water in front of them that I had seen in so many photos but first we were directed downstairs to get covered up!

I wasn’t sure what to wear to the Sheikh Zayed Mosque as a female. I had worn a black maxi dress, took my own headscarf and something to cover my arms thinking that this would be fine but the impression I got is that they like you to wear their Abaya (full black dress) and to be fair they weren’t as bad as I thought they would be!

The Abaya had a hood which will cover your hair and top of your head but we decided to use our own headscarf to add some colour which I recommend!

All covered up

We headed back upstairs and started to walk around unable to stop taking photos. We walked through all the pillars, into the centre of the Mosque and then into the prayer room which was filled with many beautiful chandeliers and a very soft carpet and I said to my friend how amazing it would be if you were Muslim and this just happened to be your local Mosque.

Once outside we walked around again some more but by then the heat was really getting to us in all of our layers.

The centre of the Mosque

One of the many beautiful chandeliers!

We were there for a good hour or so and although the actual structure is very big, there isn’t a huge amount of walking to be done and soon you are back to where you started.

Overall we really enjoyed it. We did consider not going due to the time it would take to get there on the bus from Dubai to Abu Dhabi and the cost of the taxi but I don’t regret going one bit!

Sheikh Zayed Mosque Travel Tips

I had been advised that getting there for when the sun is setting is a beautiful time with the light filtering in so if you can go at sunset then do!

There’s nothing else surrounding the Mosque. Initially, I thought we could visit and then get a coffee somewhere before heading back to Dubai but it didn’t seem possible to walk anywhere from the Mosque.

Taxis were waiting outside and even in Dubai, all the taxi drivers know where it is as it’s a really popular destination so no need to worry about that.

Make sure you take sunglasses! All of the white plus the sun was pretty blinding!

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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? 

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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.

Find me on: Web | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

You may also enjoy:

Ultimate guide to abu dhabi things to …, how to do an abu dhabi stopover, carols in the desert ~ a unique uae …, planning your visit to the louvre abu ….

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!

Visiting the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque on a day trip from Dubai

On our trip to Dubai in February we really wanted to visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi. Here’s how to get there from Dubai, what to wear and what to expect.

Why visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque?

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi is one of the biggest mosques in the world, with a capacity of 40,000. It’s located on the outskirts of Abu Dhabi city centre, and is impossible to miss – as you get closer you start to see the dazzling white domes (82 of them) and four minarets on the horizon, and as you reach the entrance it’s impossible not to be amazed by the mosque’s scale and beauty.

Do I need to be a Muslim to visit?

No. The mosque is very welcoming to visitors of all faiths, as long as you respect the simple “Mosque Manners” rules, which include dressing conservatively, not taking photos of people praying and not sleeping.

How to get to the Sheikh Zayed Mosque from Dubai

There are three options (before the hyperloop opens, that is!) if you don’t have your own wheels.

By taxi – 1 hour 30 minutes

The quickest and most expensive option. We ended up taking a taxi as we were limited on time. From our hotel in Downtown Dubai to the mosque cost around AED 350. The taxi back to Ibn Battuta Mall cost under AED 300 (we’d planned to get the bus to return to Dubai but it was pouring with rain). Despite the long journey, we didn’t have any trouble finding a taxi driver willing to make the trip. It’s worth noting that although Dubai taxi drivers are meant to take credit cards, ours didn’t. He was happy to stop at a service station on the way so I could get cash out though.

By bus – 2 hours+

There are regular buses from Al Ghubaiba bus station in the Bur Dubai area to Abu Dhabi. These are non-stop to Abu Dhabi bus station, take 2 hours and cost AED 25. From the Abu Dhabi bus station, you’ll need to get a local bus or a taxi to the mosque. This is definitely the cheapest option but takes a lot longer than the other two.

By organised excursion – full day

Big Bus Dubai and other tour companies run excursions to Abu Dhabi which include the mosque. These would be a long day but are probably worth it if you don’t fancy the public bus and want to see other attractions in Abu Dhabi like Ferrari World.

What should I wear to visit the Sheikh Zayed Mosque?

The mosque provides clear guidance on their website . Women should be covered from the neck, to the wrist and to the ankle, and have their hair covered. Men should have their shoulders and knees covered. I wore a maxi skirt and a high-necked t-shirt with a denim jacket on top and a scarf covering my hair and was waved through by the mosque staff at the entrance.

If your clothing doesn’t meet the requirements you can borrow an abaya to wear over the top. You’ll need to take your shoes off when you go inside the main mosque building so make sure you wear your best socks.

What to expect

When you reach the mosque the first building you’ll go into holds airport-style security and a check that you’re dressed appropriately. Once through (and dressed in your abaya, if they want you to wear one), you’ll be inside the complex. There’s no entry fee, visiting the mosque and taking the guided tour are completely free.

You’ll pass immaculate gardens and water features before you step inside the arcade which surrounds the mosque’s huge central courtyard, where 30,000 people can pray.

If you want to take a guided tour (and you should!), follow the signs to the meeting point. There are regular tours, although when we were there the latest one was at 11am before a long wait for one at 5pm, so check the mosque’s website  before you set off. If you’re in a small group you don’t need to book to join a guided tour. While you’re waiting for the tour you’re free to wander around, take photographs or visit the café and gift shop.

The tour guide will give you a headset and then will take you around the mosque on a 45 minute guided tour. Our guide was a local Emirati man who was very interesting and funny as he told us about the features of the mosque, including the record-breaking carpet, Islam and life in the UAE. At the end there was the opportunity to ask questions.

What will surprise you about the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque?

The most astonishing thing about the mosque is its beauty. The marble is stunning and the inlaid mother of pearl on every column and all across the floor in floral and botanical designs is amazingly beautiful.

I was surprised by the warmth and humour of our guide, and by the feeling of joy in the mosque itself – the beautiful twinkling chandeliers, the soft carpet and the calligraphy. For some reason, I thought that it’d be a solemn, silent place but it really doesn’t feel that way.

Coming from the UK where almost all our cathedrals are hundreds of years old, it was a huge surprise to me that it was only opened in 2007, and every time I forgot and felt like I was in an old building, there was a little touch to remind me; escalators to get to the toilets and washing facilities; the biggest sliding door I’ve ever seen to get into the main prayer hall; fibre optic lights in the walls; an electronic display showing prayer times across the world.

I was also really surprised that photography was allowed in most places in the mosque. Unless you do a Rhianna or otherwise don’t follow the rules, you’ll be able to take as many photos as you want.

Is it worth visiting the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque from Dubai?

Absolutely. It’s quite a long way from Dubai to Abu Dhabi and a bit expensive in a taxi but it’s definitely worth making the journey, especially if you take the guided tour. Visiting the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque was one of the highlights of my trip to the UAE.

Have you visited the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque?

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36 thoughts on “Visiting the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque on a day trip from Dubai”

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.

Thanks for your comment, it’s a wonderful place to visit for everyone.

Gracias por ilustrarnos de una forma sencilla y práctica sobre el viaje.

Una pregunta: Con que moneda es más práctico viajar a Dubai. Gracias

Hi, thank you for your comment. I hope I’ve got this right but I think you’re asking about the best currency to take to Dubai. I mostly paid on my debit card, but for things like taxis and taking an abra across the Dubai Creek, it was useful to have some dirhams (AED). It was never a problem getting cash out from ATMs.

Wow, I can’t imagine actually being there. This is truly one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen. Props to the photographer *wink* *wink* lol. Another destination added to the list!

Haha thank you!

Loved the interior photos of the mosque. What a beauty! Have you been to Istanbul? They have gorgeous mosques there too

Thank you, it is absolutely gorgeous, and so welcoming. I’ve passed through Istanbul with work but haven’t had the chance to see their beautiful mosques unfortunately!

Wow, what a beautiful place to visit! Definitely adding this mosque to my itinerary if I ever visit Abu Dhabi.

It’s definitely a must-see in Abu Dhabi. It’s so big don’t think you could miss it anyway!

Gosh the pictures !! It looks beautiful, so jealous 😀

The mosque is gorgeous, one of the most beautiful buildings I’ve ever seen 🙂

Wow this is stunning. I have seen photos and want to go! I went to Brunei strictly to see the incredible mosques there. I am not religious but I find religious buildings fascinating.

Same here, we’re spoiled where I live in the UK as we have loads of gorgeous cathedrals but the mosque is so different to anything we have here.

The mosque looks magnificent! I really want to visit someday. Thanks for the detailed guide about how to get there and what to expect inside.

Thank you! I hope you get there 🙂

This really is stunning and has inspired me to make sure I see it some day! Great writing, too… 😊 Thanks for posting!

Thank you so much! It’s an inspiring place.

Ok, this looks pretty amazing. But I’m stumped on that etiquette sign, what is the acceptable manner with the arrows? Top right corner.

Hi Brandy, you know what, I’m actually not sure! There were set walkways so perhaps it’s telling you not to wander all over the place? Visitors also had to stay clear of areas where people were praying so it might be to do with that.

That looks beautiful! I never really visit churches (or mosques because I haven’t been anywhere that has them) but I would love to see this in person!

Such a great article! I’m planning to visit Dubai later and was toying up between a few nights an Abu Dhabi or a day trip…great to hear it’s possible! Also your website is beautiful 🙂

It’s definitely possible. If the weather hadn’t been so horrible and rainy we would definitely have stuck around in Abu Dhabi to see the other sights. I think if you want to visit Ferrari World or if you go when the art museums have opened you’d need a couple of days. And thank you!

I love this Mosque!! It’s one of the best Muslim I ever visited!

It’s gorgeous isn’t it!

I’ve always seen such beautiful pictures of the outside, but the inside pictures are just as stunning! I definitely want to see this one day! Pinned! #blogpostsaturday

Thank you! The mosque amazed me with how beautiful and calm it is inside but also how high tech and modern.

This is amazing! I remember when I visited my first mosque (the National Mosque of Malaysia in Kuala Lumpur) and was amazed how beautiful it was! I’m glad there are shawls that you can borrow in case you need it.

I’ve visited! Definitely a highlight of my trip to UAE, this mosque is soooooo stunnnninnnggg. Reading your post brought me back to the mosque again. Did you notice the bathing areas before the toilets? They were so grand! No photos allowed even though it wasn’t open to being used, so I didn’t take any.

I did, aren’t they gorgeous! I really wanted to take a photo too!

wow this is so beautiful! I’ve never visited a mosque like this but it seems really incredible – really nice photos 🙂

Lovely photos <3. I didn’t know that Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi is the largest mosque in the United Arab Emirates. The marble is stunning ! For sure, you have to keep in mind that this is a place of worship and be respectful. You have to follow the dress code but it is good to know that you can borrow an abaya (traditional robe) before you enter the mosque.

This looks insanely beautiful. I have never really looked at many photos of the mosque though having heard of it before. Now that I read your post, I really want to go and see this beautiful place for myself. I thought it was really cool that you mentioned everyone is welcome there if you’re willing to follow the rules and that you could ask you tour guide all sorts of questions, sounds very openminded to me 🙂 Thanks for sharing!

Thank you! Yes it was really welcoming, there were people in our guided tour group from all over the world. The guide was very patient and helpful and answered everything he was asked, even when the person asking felt a bit embarrassed to be asking it!

Wow, the Grand Mosque looks absolutely stunning! It’s been on our bucket list for a while now, but we haven’t made it to Dubai yet. I didn’t know it was only built in 2007 either! Very interesting and informative post, added it to our digital bucket list for when we make it there some day. 😉 Thanks!

Thank you! I kept forgetting it was so new!

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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

Built as an eternal resting place for President Sheikh Zayed , and popularly known as the Great Mosque, the Sheikh Zayed Mosque is one of the largest mosques in the world and also one of the most impressive.

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque towers majestically over the beautiful gardens that surround it. It has  4 100-meter high minarets , as well as 80 marble domes crowing a roof which rests on 1,000 pillars.

Exploring the Mosque

The colossal mosque was built with more than 90,000 tons of white marble on which were made delicate floral designs inlaid with semi-precious stones.

The design of the mosque is modern and innovative , bringing together  Mamluk , Ottoman , Moorish , Indo-Islamic , and Fatimid styles . The impressive Swarovski crystal lamps decorated with 24-carat gold (the largest weighs 11 tons and contains 40 kilos of gold) are the star attraction here.

In keeping with its name, everything in the mosque is done in a grand way. The carpet covering the main hall is the largest in the world . Some 1,200 artisans were involved in its creation, weaving more than two billion knots with the best cotton brought from Iran and New Zealand.

A grand place where you will feel small

The Sheikh Zayed Mosque is one of the few mosques in the region where non-Muslims are allowed to enter, a true luxury that allows tourists to enjoy a wonderful masterpiece of architecture and design.

This is one of the most impressive mosques in the world both for its size and its beauty, so it would be appropriate to include it among the essential places to visit.

Important information

It is not possible to visit the mosque during mass.

To enter the mosque you must cover your  legs , head , and shoulders . If you do not have something to put over them, you can collect a tunic at the entrance.

Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed St.

From Saturday to Thursday: from 9:30 am to 10 am. Friday: from 9 am to 12 pm, 3 pm to 10 pm.

During Ramadan: From Saturday to Thursday: from 9 am to 3 pm. Fridays: closed. The last 10 days of Ramadan, the museum will open only for the first half of the mentioned schedule.

Free entry.

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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

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. We may receive a small commission when you make a purchase using our link.

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.

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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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Everything about tourist attractions

Sheikh Zayed Mosque – tickets, timings, guided tours, dress code, what to see

Sheikh Zayed Mosque is one of the largest mosques globally and can hold more than 40,000 worshippers and visitors simultaneously.

The Grand Mosque’s designers were British, Italian, and Emirati, and they used design elements from Turkey, Morocco, Pakistan, and Egypt, among other Islamic countries. The finished product is a stunning, sparkling architectural masterpiece.

Sheikh Zayed Mosque is also known as the ‘Pearl of the Gulf’ and is in Abu Dhabi, 129 km (80 miles) from Dubai.

This article covers everything you must know before visiting the Sheikh Zayed Mosque.

Table of contents

What to expect at sheikh zayed mosque, where to book tickets, how do online tickets work, sheikh zayed mosque ticket prices, abu dhabi city tour from dubai, half-day guided tour of abu dhabi, sheikh zayed mosque + etihad towers, grand mosque + louvre museum, sheikh zayed mosque + ferrari world, how to reach sheikh zayed mosque, sheikh zayed mosque timings, best time to visit sheikh zayed mosque, how long does sheikh zayed mosque take, sheikh zayed mosque at night, dress code for sheikh zayed mosque, what to see at sheikh zayed mosque.

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque was constructed as a symbol of tolerance and respect, allowing people of many cultures to appreciate one another better and better understand Islam.

The mosque has a beautiful design incorporating Mamluk, Ottoman, and Fatimid architectural styles.

The mosque is surrounded by several reflective pools that add to its beauty. The pools along the arcades reflect the mosque’s columns, creating stunning visuals, especially at night.

The main prayer hall is an architectural masterpiece that can accommodate over 40,000 worshippers. It is home to the world’s largest chandelier and carpet.

If you are staying in Dubai, you can opt for the  full-day Abu Dhabi city tour from Dubai , which includes a visit to the Grand Mosque.  

If you are staying in Abu Dhabi, check out the  half-day guided tour of the city , which includes a visit to the mosque.

Discover the secrets of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and learn incredible facts about this stunning landmark!

Back to Top

Tickets for a full-day guided tour from Dubai  can be purchased online.

When you book early, you also get your preferred time slot.

Because some tours sell a limited number of tickets, during peak days they may sell out.

Booking early helps avoid last-minute disappointments.

Visit the Dubai full-day tour ticket booking page , select your preferred date and number of tickets, and buy the tickets right away.

Once you purchase the full-day Dubai guided tour tickets, they get delivered to your email address.

There is no need to get printouts of the ticket.

You can show the e-ticket on your smartphone to the tour guide and join the group.

Take a peek inside the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque now!

The Sheikh Zayed Mosque, often known as the white beauty of the Gulf, is free for all visitors.

Both tourists and locals don’t need to buy any tickets to enter.

However, booking a half-day guided tour will cost you 158 AED (43 USD), and a  full-day guided tour from Dubai  costs 359 AED (98 USD) per person.

Exploring the Mosque with a guide can lead to a memorable tour because it is a beautifully constructed building, and each wall has a story, and each design an anecdote.

Sheikh Zayed Mosque guided tours

We have hand-picked two of the best-guided tours to the Sheikh Zayed Mosque.

All of the tour tickets come with a 24-hour cancellation policy. You can cancel 24 hours before your visit and get a full refund.

Kids three years and below can join for free on all these tours.

This small group experience is a perfect tour of Sheikh Zayed Mosque if you stay in Dubai because you don’t have to worry about transportation.

You will travel down the Persian Gulf coast to Abu Dhabi after being picked up from your hotel in Dubai while listening to stories about one of the World’s wealthiest cities.

Visit the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of Abu Dhabi’s most well-known attractions.

Admire the Mosque’s 82 domes, chandeliers, and flower-patterned patterns, all made of white marble.

Then, drive around the Abu Dhabi Corniche for a stunning perspective of the Persian Gulf.

Continue to the luxurious Emirates Palace, the official hotel of Abu Dhabi’s ruling government, and see the clear water of the bay.

The next destination will be the Marina Mall, where you can stop for lunch (at your own expense) and dine at one of the mall’s restaurants or choose from the food court alternatives.

Afterward, go to the majestic Qasr Al Watan Palace, part of the UAE presidential palace compound.

See the palace’s architectural elements, relics, and other historical treasures.

After that, relax and enjoy the ride back to Dubai, where you’ll be dropped off.

Ticket Prices

Adult Ticket (12+ years): 359 AED (98 USD) Child Ticket (4 to 11 years): 287 AED (78 USD)

If you want privacy during your vacation and the ability to customize the trip, opt for the  private full-day tour of the Grand Mosque  in Abu Dhabi. It will cost you AED 503 for a group of four people.

If you are staying in Abu Dhabi or can manage your transport from Dubai to Abu Dhabi, this 4-hour tour is perfect.

After being picked up from your Abu Dhabi hotel, your guide will drive you to the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

The inner courtyard and minaret, design themes of Naskhi, Thuluth, and Kufic calligraphy, and thin columns mirrored in the lake are just a few of the highlights inside and out.

The drive returns you to the Persian Gulf, where you may marvel at the magnificent developments along the Abu Dhabi Corniche.

Some of the World’s most ultra-modern, stunning skyscrapers and luxurious hotels, such as Emirates Palace, which faces the pristine coastline, will wow you.

Visit Port Zayed’s historic vegetable, date, and fish markets in the city’s northeast.

Port Zayed has been essential in increasing Abu Dhabi’s international trade due to its strategic location in its center.

The journey concludes with a photo opportunity at Heritage Settlement, a desert village that has been recreated.

Adult Ticket (11+ years): 158 AED (43 USD) Child Ticket (3 to 10 years): 126 AED (34 USD)

This is a small group tour in which you get picked up from your hotel in Dubai and driven to the Grand Mosque in style.

Later, you will see scenic views of the Arabian Gulf while strolling at Abu Dhabi Corniche. You then explore the old Emirati village at the Heritage Village.

A visit to the Marina Mall is followed by a lunch break, after which you visit the observation deck of Etihad Towers (on the 74th floor!).

After you have had your fill of the Abu Dhabi skyline, you get back to Dubai.

Adult Ticket (12+ years): 473 AED (129 USD) Child Ticket (4 to 11 years): 392 AED (107 USD)

This tour starts from Dubai in an air-conditioned vehicle, and you get to see two of the country’s crowning attractions – the Louvre Museum & the Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi.

First, you see the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and then drive to the Louvre Museum on Saadiyat Island.

At the Louvre, you admire classic and modern works of cultural and sociological significance from worldwide for two hours before driving back to Dubai.

An English-speaking guide is with you all through the 9-hour-long guided tour.

Adult Ticket (12+ years):  459 AED (98 USD) Youth Ticket (3 to 11 years):  287 AED (78 USD)

In a way, this tour can even be called the ‘Highlights of Abu Dhabi’ tour.

After getting picked up from Dubai, you first explore the Mosque, Emirates Palace, and the Heritage Village.

After a quick lunch break, you start your second part of the day at the largest indoor theme park in the world – the Ferrari World.

Once you have had your share of adrenalin rush inside the World of Ferrari, you head back to Dubai.

Adult Ticket (11+ years): 823 AED (224 USD) Child Ticket (3 to 9 years): 731 AED (199 USD)

Do not forget to read about the dress code before you visit the Grand Mosque to avoid the last minute disappointment.

If you are staying in Abu Dhabi, we suggest taxiing to the Grand Mosque.

The Mosque is 15 km (9.3 miles) from Abu Dhabi city, and a quick 12-minute taxi ride can get you there. Get Directions

Address: Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Street, 5th St, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Get Directions

Looking to save time on your visit to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque from Dubai ? Check out our guide on the best routes and tips for a smooth journey.

Sheikh Zayed Mosque is open from 9 am to 10 pm from Saturday to Thursday.

On Fridays, the Mosque is open from 9 am to 12 pm and reopens from 3 pm to 10 pm.

During Ramadan, Sheikh Zayed Mosque begins at 9 am and closes at 2 pm.

When Ramadan is going on, the Mosque stays closed on Fridays.

The best time to visit Sheikh Zayed Mosque is when they open at 9 am or later in the evening during sunset.

Morning or evening visits help you avoid the heat, which can be extreme, especially during the summer months of May to November.

During sunset, the Abu Dabhi Mosque looks stunning.

Like any popular tourist attraction, weekends are slightly more crowded than weekdays.

Best time for photography

If you want to take lots of photographs of Sheikh Zayed Mosque, plan your visit at sunset or just before sunset.

The Mosque looks fantastic as the sun shines off the building during the golden hour.

Most visitors take 90 minutes to two hours to explore Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

Guided tours of the Mosque last 60 minutes, after which you can hang around for another 30 to 60 minutes exploring the intricate designs and details.

Due to long queues, you may need half an hour more on weekends and other crowded days.

Sheikh Zayed Mosque is massive, covering over 12 hectares (30 acres), so plan accordingly.

The ‘Pearl of Gulf’ is magical during sunset and after dark.

Sheikh Zayed Mosque is open till 10 pm and attracts many visitors after dark.

The domes and pillars of the Mosque get lit in magical colors depicting the lunar cycle.

The Mosque is enveloped in cold white light on full moon evenings and is washed with a blue light on no-moon evenings.

One can notice seven subtle shifts in color every second evening, moving from deep blue on no moon night to clean white on full moon night.

Visitors who don’t have the time to enter and explore the Grand Mosque at night decide to drive by and enjoy its beauty.

Apart from being a tourist attraction, the Sheikh Zayed Mosque is an active religious place where people worship.

All visitors must follow the Mosque’s conservative dress code regardless of faith.

Men must not reveal any flesh above their knees and cover their shoulders.

While visiting the Mosque, women must not wear pants, shorts, or skirts that end above the ankle.

Female visitors must cover their heads and hair with a headscarf.

Don’t worry if you land at the Mosque without adhering to the dress code.

The organizers provide ‘Abayas’ free of cost to its female visitors.

However, no clothes are supplied to the men.

All visitors are requested to remove their shoes before entering the Mosque.

Although the fairy-tale structure catches your eye when you step in, there are certain must-sees you can’t miss.

Sheikh Zayed Mausoleum

The Mosque is named after Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who was well known for uniting the Emirates and forming what is now known as the United Arab Emirates.

Known as the pushing force behind the changing landscape of the Gulf, Sheikh Zayed died in 2004. Three years later, the Grand Mosque was completed.

He lies buried in a Mausoleum on the north side of the Mosque.

The Central Courtyard

The Grand Mosque’s dominating feature is its central courtyard.

The gleaming white courtyard lined by reflecting pools was inspired by Pakistan’s Badshahi Mosque and Morocco’s Hassan II Mosque.

Standing in the middle of the courtyard, you can view the architectural marvels of the Mosque borrowed from different countries and cultures.

The courtyard alone can hold 30,000 believers and is guarded by four 107 Meters (351 feet) high minarets inspired by three different civilizations: Egyptian, North African, and Turkian.

While entering the Foyer, one must adhere to the Mosque’s dress code.

The Foyer has an onion-top dome with a verse of the Koran calligraphed around it.

Each verse letter is painted with a gold leaf and written in a popular style called An-Naskh.

Apart from the gold calligraphy, the Foyer is also jeweled with one of the seven giant chandeliers.

The chandelier is held overhead by steel cables and complements the beauty of the Foyer.

Main Prayer Hall

The mosque’s main prayer hall is a hangar-sized room divided into two for separate genders. It can hold 10,000 worshipers.

Ninety-six columns adorned with semi-precious stones support the roof.

The room is fully air-conditioned, with the area around every column conditioned by an AC the size of a mini-bus.

Chandeliers

Sheikh Zayed Mosque has seven grand chandeliers weighing eight to 12 metric tonnes.

Steel cables holding up to 36 tonnes of weight support each chandelier.

The seven chandeliers in the Grand Mosque hold almost 40 million Swarovski crystals.

The grand chandelier in the Main Prayer Hall of Sheikh Zayed Mosque is 10 meters (32 feet) in diameter and 15 meters (49 feet) tall.

At a weight of 9 tonnes, it is one of the heaviest Chandeliers in the World.

The date palm tree inspires this chandelier, a standard feature of the region.

The Main Prayer Hall chandelier is made of stainless steel and brass and bathed with 40 kg of 24-carat gold.

World’s largest carpet

The largest carpet in the world lines Sheikh Zayed Mosque’s Prayer Hall.

It is made primarily of wool imported from New Zealand and takes 16 months to weave.

The carpet, made by a third-generation carpet master from Iran, was delivered in nine pieces in two jumbo jets.

One thousand two hundred artisans worked on the hand-knotted carpet, which, when unrolled, covers 5,700 sqm.

Wall of Allah

The Qibla wall facing Mecca is engraved with 99 names that Muslims attribute to God in Arabic calligraphy.

The engravings are highlighted by subtle fiber-optic lighting.

The semi-circular niche is adorned with 24-carat gold and complements the beauty of the Grand Mosque.

Reflective Pools

Around the Sheikh Zayed Mosque, many pools are lined with reflecting tiles.

These pools get lit at night with a magical floodlight, which further enhances the beauty of the Mosque.

Thousands of visitors photograph the pools yearly to win the Spaces of Light photo competition.

The calm waters of these pools match perfectly with the peaceful environment of the Mosque itself.

Sources # Wikipedia.org # Visitabudhabi.ae # Abudhabiculture.ae # Tripadvisor.com The travel specialists at TheBetterVacation.com use only high-quality sources while researching & writing their articles. We make every attempt to keep our content current, reliable and trustworthy .

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This article was researched & written by

Sri Venkat Mamidi

Sri Venkat Mamidi finds staying in one place boring. He travels to learn about different people, cultures, beliefs, religions, and other things he doesn't know yet. For him, traveling is not about escaping the daily routine but finding out who he really is. Favorite Cities: New Orleans, Budapest, Cape Town.

Edited by Rekha Rajan & fact checked by Jamshed V Rajan

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Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre

• Mon,27 May 2024
• Dhul Qadah 19, 1445
• Time: 03:26 PM

• 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
• Feedback to [email protected] or Inquiries

Page last updated on:  May 27 2024 at 15:26:54

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Abu Dhabi Grand Mosque Dress Code & Etiquette Guide 2024

Looking at planning a trip to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque while you’re in Abu Dhabi?

It is the city’s number one attraction for many fabulous reasons. However, many tourists’ first question or concern is about the appropriate dress code when entering a religious building in a Muslim country.

Whilst you should always look to dress respectfully as a tourist in the UAE, religious buildings require particularly strict attention to what you are wearing and how you behave.

If you would like a full guide on what to expect when you visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, check out this post . Here, we will discuss dress standards and expected behaviour.

What to Wear to the Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi

The rules for non-Muslim tourists visiting the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque are very strict, particularly for women.

Regardless of what you are wearing, staff will still have the final say in whether you are adequately covered. If you are pulled up, cover up and comply or expect to be asked to leave.

Ditto inappropriate behaviour for a mosque – posing, group selfies, and similar behaviour is NOT acceptable.

But fear not! If you are not wearing what is deemed appropriate attire for the Grand Mosque, then the right items can be purchased before you enter. Here’s how you should look to dress inside the Grand Mosque:

Dress Code for Women at the Abu Dhabi Grand Mosque

• You must have your arms and legs completely covered.
• Your hair must be completely covered.
• The only skin that can show is your hands, feet, and face. 
• If you are not properly dressed (don’t worry, this applies to most tourists), you will need to stop at the small souk attached to the Mosque and buy a fairly inexpensive Abaya (which covers your body) and Shayla (which covers your head). This is all part of the experience so embrace it!
• Please don’t think this means you should wear the skimpiest outfit underneath! You will still be lining up with other Muslim tourists, and respect should be shown throughout your visit to Abu Dhabi.

Update: Since COVID days, they no longer offer the free hire of abayas and Shaylas due to health regulations. Many websites still incorrectly suggest this is an option but it has not been offered since pre 2020.

Dress Code for Men at the Abu Dhabi Grand Mosque

Men should have long trousers with legs completely covered and shirt sleeves (at least elbow length).

If you are wearing shorts, you will be asked to buy an appropriate covering from the souk [As above, the option to hire a kandura for free was removed during COVID]

Shoes inside the Grand Mosque

If you don’t want to walk around inside the mosque’s Grand Hall in bare feet, make sure you bring your nicest socks!

Shoes are left outside on a shoe rack, so remember where you left them.

Dress Code for Children at the Grand Mosque

• Pre-pubescent children are free to dress as they please
• From early puberty and beyond, particularly for the girls they will ask that the same dress code for women entering the Grand Mosque be followed.

Note that age is of irrelevance. We know girls as young as 10 who’ve been pulled up and asked to dress as per the ladies dresscode and require the full abaya/shayla.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Timings

It’s important to plan your trip around the Grand Mosque’s opening hours , often adjusted for religious occasions:

• Saturday to Thursday : 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Friday:  9:00 – 12:00 PM, reopens 3:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Last admissions at 9:30 PM

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 , including FREE guided tour times.

You can find this year’s guide to the Grand Mosque Ramadan open times here.

Entry Fee for the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

There is no charge to enter the Grand Mosque during the day. If you join an organised tour, however, you will pay a fee for your transportation and tour guide.

To save time, you can register your visit in advance , but note that you are not obligated to do this; you can register on entry.

• You can learn more about visiting the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque coming from Dubai on a day trip here.
• Have you got an overnight stopover in Abu Dhabi? Did you know that the Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi now offers night tours (for a small fee, you need to pre-register)
• Grab all our photography tips for the Grand Mosque to plan your visit perfectly
• Learn more about getting around within Abu Dhabi here
• We have more tips on free places to visit in Abu Dhabi here

We hope you enjoy your visit to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, undoubtedly one of the cultural highlights of the United Arab Emirates not to be missed off your itinerary.

More Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque FAQ’s

Previously, if you were underdressed for entry into the Abu Dhabi Grand Mosque, it was free to hire an abaya or kandura. However, since COVID, the free rental option has been removed. Should security staff deem your clothing inappropriate, some small shops at Souk Al Jami are on-site to buy some relatively inexpensive items to meet the requirements.

Yes, jeans fully covering the legs of both males and females are acceptable dress for the Grand Mosque.

Open-toed footwear is acceptable for both males and females, as long as ankle-length clothing is worn. The ankle must be completely covered. Note that all footwear is removed before walking inside the carpeted area of the mosque.

The instructions are to wear loose, ankle-length clothing. This can be trousers or flowing skirts, but a figure-hugging set of leggings isn’t going to cut it. You must put a full-length abaya over the top of your leggings to meet the Grand Mosque dress code in Abu Dhabi. Note that the abaya must not be transparent in any way.

Your Hijab or Shayla needs to be firmly placed around your head. Staff are on hand to assist you in getting this right.

Worried about etiquette in the UAE and staying in line with local Islamic laws as a tourist? Let us put your mind at ease with our guide to Abu Dhabi Rules – the Do’s and Don’ts all tourists should observe .

Before you go… Important things to consider when planning a trip to Abu Dhabi

• Pop into our  essential planning information page , it includes everything you need to know about  getting around Abu Dhabi , a handy guide on  what to pack  as well as top tips for first-timers on the  dos and don’ts, laws, and customs in the UAE.
• Don’t forget to pack your travel insurance !
• Discover the   best places to stay in Abu Dhabi ,  or bag a bargain on your accommodation here:

Take me back to the best Abu Dhabi Attractions

Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our hotel or tour recommendation links . Abu Dhabi Travel Planner

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