Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the largest mosques in the world that is situated in Abu Dhabi, the capital city of United Arab Emirates. It was built by the late President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), HH Sheikh Zayed Bin Sulthan Al Nahyan. His body is buried on the grounds beside this mosque. It is the largest mosque in the United Arab Emirates and the eighth largest mosque in the whole world.
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It is the grand mosque of United Arab Emirates and it is one of the prominent place for gatherings on Fridays and on Eid prayers. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque holds a special place in the heart of the people and it is a signature landmark that represents the rich history and heritage of Abu Dhabi. The mosque can house an astonishing 41,000 worshippers at a time, 10,000 being in the interior part of the mosque and 30,000 in the external areas of the mosque. This alone will give us an idea of the magnificence of the mosque.
Sheikh Zayed Grand mosque is highly acclaimed for its amazing Islamic architecture and the pure white colour. The design of the mosque was inspired from Mughal and Moorish architecture. Thirty eight contractors and thousands of workers work hard to make the mosque a concrete reality. Materials to build the mosque was taken from across the world including Greece, Italy, Germany, China, Austria, India and New Zealand.
Natural materials including marble stones, gold, semi-precious stones, crystals and ceramics were used in the construction of the mosque that gives a long lasting effect.
The main attractions of the Sheikh Zayed Grand mosque includes the massive structure that contains eighty two domes, about a thousand columns and enticing 24 carat gold adorned chandeliers. The mosque also houses the world’s largest hand woven carpet. It took almost two years to complete the carpet. The main hall is bedecked with one of the largest chandeliers of the world which has a diameter of 10 metres, a height of 15 metres and weighs twelve tonnes.
Pools surround the mosque which enhance the beauty of the mosque with their reflections. You can reach the mosque in the evening and enjoy the grandeur of Sheikh Zayed Grand mosque with the cool breeze gently touching your face. The mosque is open to visitors on all days except on Friday mornings. If you are in Abu Dhabi, then you should definitely visit this epitome of Islam architecture.