Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Background

Initiated by the UAE's founding president, Sheikh Zayed, and opened in 2007, it is the UAE's largest mosque, holding about 40,000 worshippers. Its 82 domes and more than 1,000 columns inlaid with mother-of-pearl bring together Macedonian marble, Italian gold leaf and the skills of craftsmen from many countries. The main prayer hall has the world's largest hand-knotted carpet, certified by Guinness (about 5,600 m², made by 1,200 artisans), and seven Swarovski crystal chandeliers trimmed with 24-carat gold.

Local customs

• The mosque is a national symbol of the UAE, and free guided tours are available in several languages
• don't eat or drink on the marble courtyard.

Religion & beliefs

• A working mosque: some areas close to visitors at prayer times (visits pause for Friday midday prayers). The dress code is strict: women must cover their hair and wear long sleeves and a long skirt or trousers — abayas are lent free at the entrance
• no shorts or vests for men. Remove shoes to enter the prayer hall, and keep silent.

Rules that apply here

Travel tips

• Book a time slot in advance on the official website (check for current details)
• the white marble is loveliest at sunset, so go in the late afternoon. The free tour lasts about 45 minutes and is worth joining. It's about 1.5 hours by bus from Dubai, and can be combined with the Louvre Abu Dhabi on the same day.