Abu Dhabi Experiences - Exploring Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

One of the most beautiful buildings I've seen is the Temple of Sheikh Zayed in Abu Dhabi. The white mosque, with flowing lines, resembles the Taj Mahal. And, due to recent construction, it looks more vivid.

Wise Sheik Zayed decided to devote this object to religion, sending a message of wisdom and global cooperation. Thus he encouraged non-Muslim tourists to visit Abu Dabi.

Unfortunately, the sheik died before the completion of his idea. He is buried in the vicinity of the mosque, while curious tourists guard his grave with care and cameras.

The construction of the temple

The construction lasted from 1996 to 2007 with a total project value of around $ 545 million.  

Although everybody hides expenses, the fact is that the mosque was built from donations. All the inhabitants of the Emirate gave their contribution. So, when you voluntarily give money for a higher goal, you keep quiet about it!

Artists from around the world took part in the construction of the exterior and interior. The Mosque unites Arabic, Moroccan, Persian, and Indian styles.

During the construction, the same marble was used as with the Taj Mahal. It has 80 domes and four minarets covering an area of 500,000 square meters.

How to come

From the main bus station, the line leads directly to the mosque. It only takes 5 minutes. The friendly staff at the station will guide you to catch a bus / buy a Kalifat card with a supplement. Bus No. 54 leads to the mosque. You better avoid taxis since it is more expensive here than in Dubai. Some rules The main pedestrian gateway is on the left side of the road if you are coming from the station. Upon entering the Mosque, they will send you to a room full of the abaya. However, this only applies if you are a woman. Men stay in their clothes. While some ladies are posing in this dress in front of photographers, for others it may seem too rude to wear the abaya. Because of the air-conditioned rooms, you have to wear long sleeves. Ordinary texas jackets might be unpleasant in high outside temperatures, but the abaya is made of fine silk and is much more comfortable. It is not allowed to bring food to the mosque. If you have snack supplies, you will have to leave them at the entrance. It will wait for you do not worry! Main entrance

A crowd of people from all over the world rush to the main entrance astonished by the bluewater that highlights the entrance and the magnificent mosaic in the yard.

Colorful flowers made of marble will not leave you indifferent. Inside the Mosque The left side of the mosque is for tourists and you have to enter the mosque barefoot. You can see the right side only with a tour guide during group visits (10 to 11 am). I recommend this kind of tour, as you will learn a lot about construction and life in the Emirates. Walls are decorated with plants and a clock showing the time of prayer. The ceilings are like the dome and chandelier of the Swarovski crystal. Largest carpet in the world Inside the mosque, there is the largest carpet in the world. The carpet weighs 35 tons with an area of 7110 m2. It is made of wool imported from New Zealand and Iran. The colour is green, with pink floral motifs and it fits with the pink nuances of the mural on the walls. 96 pillars adhere to the main part of the mosque and are grouped into four. The stubs are embroidered with pearls. Pearls have special significance for the Armenians. That was the major source of income before the production of artificial pearls started. The wall facing the believers in prayer has a mihrab made of 24-carat gold. The rest is decorated with the names of Allah, written in Arabic. The chandeliers made in the form of palm trees with Swarovski crystals and semi-precious stones contribute to the magnificence of the space. In this interior, they are monumental! Heritage Village and Comiche The Village of Heritage shows the ancient life of the Arab world. It provides insights into the everyday life of Bedouin through their performances in traditional clothes, and the presentation of handcrafts.

The village's heritage emphasizes the new creation of the Bedouin way of life. Locals dressed in traditional clothes display traditional handicrafts, songs, and dances. You can also buy a traditional souvenir. There is also a small section for children with several elements for entertainment.

So, what makes Dubai unique?

The combination of the past and the future.   

Such beauty, diversity, harmony, cleanliness... When something is nice, it's hard to describe it. Memories are a part of the testimony.