Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a piece of architectural masterpiece that is a fusion of various Islamic architectural styles, ranging from Persian to Moorish conquest. In 2007, the mosque was built after being commissioned by the late UAE founder Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and designed by the world-renowned architect Yousef Abdelky. The mosque's architecture comprises 82 domes, more than 1,000 columns, and the largest hand-knotted carpet in the world, and the environment is boggling, speechless at a glance.
The most shining feature of the mosque is the dazzling white outer facade, which was developed using gleaming white marble from Macedonia. Intricate flower designs on the mosque walls and ceilings were meticulously created by educated artisans from across the globe, adding to the beauty of the mosque.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a Muslim mosque but otherwise open to devotees of any faith. It reflects Sheikh Zayed's vision of peace and tolerance and invites visitors from all over the world to come and enjoy Islamic values and peace culture and understanding.
The guests are free to take guided tours, which give information on the history of the mosque, its architecture, and Islamic faith. The tours are done in different languages to ensure that all people are able to enjoy the beauty and significance of the mosque.
Entering the mosque feels like entering a pool of peace and serenity. The enormous prayer hall, with its breathtaking chandeliers and the world's largest hand-knotted carpet, leaves one in awe. The chandeliers with Swarovski crystals twinkle and shine, emitting a gentle, heavenly light within.
The interior of the mosque, too, has mosaics and calligraphy verses from the Quran. The mosque is such a quiet area, well-suited to prayer and meditation, thanks to its smallness and elegance.
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is open daily to visitors, and free guided tours in a variety of languages are offered. Dress modestly and respectfully; women are required to wear an abaya, which can be borrowed at the mosque for those who don't have one.
The mosque is even more breathtaking at night when the outside lighting gives a mystical touch to the mosque, which is a favorite time for people to visit and see its beauty.
A visit to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a memorable one that combines breathtaking architecture, culture, and spirituality. Regardless of whether you're a historian, an architecture enthusiast, or simply seeking an oasis of tranquility, there's something for everyone at the mosque.
Travel to Abu Dhabi and behold the splendor of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the UAE's true gems that reflects the nation's rich history and forward-thinking vision. Book your tour with Around Egypt Tours and bask in the beauty and tranquility of this iconic masterpiece.