This post was first published in 2011 but Abu Dhabi’s iconic Shaikh Zayed Grand Mosque has been named among the world’s most talked about attractions by Trip Advisor so I thought I’d resurrect this post again so new readers can see the beautiful photos. If you’re a regular of this blog and have seen this one, it wouldn’t hurt to see this beauty again. Enjoy!
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When we went to Abu Dhabi last Eid, my husband insisted that we drop by the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. The first time we went there was three years ago. We decided to go again last Eid holidays because it was rare that my aunt (my mom’s sister who also is in Dubai) and my two cousins had off from their respective work.
It was still hot and humid in September even after 3 pm but the sky was blue and it served as a beautiful backdrop to the giant minaret of the mosque.
For those who are curious what is inside the mosque, this one’s for you.
I see some people raising their eyebrows…”But isn’t this exclusive for Muslims?” Yes, it’s a place for worship for Muslims. But this mosque is special.
…special in the sense that it is open to the public.
Not only that – even non-Muslims can enter! Here is the husband curiously looking at the worshipers during their mid-afternoon prayers.
Now, I don’t know if there’s a rule that says it is prohibited to take photos (and post them online) of people who are praying. If there is, please let me know. There were so many people taking photos of these worshipers aside from myself inside the mosque, though.
Moving on…other intricate details of the mosque includes these very pretty doors.
A bright colored mosaic flower on the floor.
These two very exquisite chandeliers – which one do you like more?
The grandeur of the mosque against a small subject, my daughter Pristine.
The mosque is open to anyone wanting to know more about Islam, or simply want to see what’s inside a mosque (this was not an ordinary mosque, though). However, there are rules. Ladies have to wear an abaya (black robe and head dress – provided at the entrance) and slippers/shoes are not allowed inside. Here’s my mom, aunt and cousin with their flowing black robes.
These abayas (black robes) are available at the entrance for ALL ladies. Don’t worry, every one gets a fresh piece. Once worn, it goes straight to a hamper and they only give out freshly washed abayas, packed in plastics. Men don’t have to wear the traditional Arabic costume of long white dishdasha unless they come in shorts. Then they have to cover their legs.
More facts about the Grand Mosque in my past (popular) post: Getting to know the Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi.
Finding Backroads 
wow, what a beautiful place!
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Wow – this is an exquisite glimpse into a beautiful place!
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Wow, that place is huge.
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Lovely Grace! My sister-in-law and her hubby went there last summer and so I saw some pictures. I don’t remember her wearing an abaya in them though… odd. Maybe it was just opened?
Oh, and I love the chandelier on the right!
PS. Where’s your cool header image?
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Great photos of a lovely place. I like that the mosque is open for those who are curious and those want to learn about Islam, or those who simply want to visit a majestic place.
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It’s incredibly beautiful. The attention that was put into detail inside and out is phenomenal.
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Wow! It’s amazing and so beautiful. It’s really nice that it is open to everyone.Your pictures are fantastic.
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That means you should visit it when you finally come later this year!
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That’s an incredible sight to behold! Those are some gorgeous pictures-I’d so love to see the inside splendor in person 🙂
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I’ve never been inside a mosque despite living here in DXB for 2yrs. And ohh I like the new layout.
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The mosque looks really nice. Last summer I’ve been to Istanbul, but I have to admit that the mosque in Dubai has more embellishments. The blue mosque in Instanbul has 4 minarets, so I think that this means that’s bigger.
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According to Wikipedia, the Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Abu Dhabi can accommodate 40,000 worshipers while the Blue Mosque in Turkey can do 10,000. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_large_mosques
Both mosques are grand! I would like to see the Blue Mosque too – is it open for public viewing even for non-Muslims?
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Hi Grace,
Yes, the Blue Mosque is open for non-Muslims as well and the entrance is free of charge.Inside there are many decorations in blue and a big chandelier.
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Wow, gorgeous pictures Grace! Great photography of an enchanting place. I look forward to your latest pictures.
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I really like that bejeweled chandelier (the one with the red, yellow, and green stones). It really catches the eye.
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Anyone who visits Abu Dhabi without visiting the Sheik Zayed Mosque is CRAZEE…..It is a must see. Not only for the sheer, size and opulence, but also for the pure calm it excudes.
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Nice to meet you.How nice that you lived in Japan before.
I didn’t know any Arabu contries.
This blog will help me to learn about the other countries culture.Thank you for sharing.
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That IS a gorgeous mosque! I think I like the blue chandlier on the right much better.
I visited a mosque in Turkey and although it was beautiful, it was nothing like this one. We didn’t have to wear the abayas, but we did have to take our shoes off.
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It is a nice place. And your blog really helpful also.
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