Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Walking Tour
Overview
Your Journey Through the Grand Mosque:
• Grand Welcome: Begin at the visitor center for an introduction to the mosque’s cultural vision and helpful tips on local etiquette.
• The Sahan (Courtyard): Explore the immense courtyard, home to the world’s largest floral marble mosaic. Capture the perfect reflection of the 82 domes in the surrounding crystal-clear pools.
• The Main Prayer Hall: Experience true luxury as you walk across the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet. Gaze at the 24-carat gold-plated Swarovski chandeliers and the stunning Qibla wall featuring 99 names of Allah in delicate calligraphy.
• Artistic Mastery: Examine intricate mother-of-pearl inlays and learn about the global craftsmanship that brought materials from all corners of the world to build this sanctuary.
This activity includes:
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi
- Tour Guide
- Entry Tickets
On arrival
Tour & Meeting Point Details
Meeting Point Location: The meeting point is located inside Souq Al Jami, the modern underground retail and dining area beneath the mosque plaza. After parking in the basement, you will enter this shopping area. The guide will be waiting in front of the McDonald's restaurant, which is on the ground floor of the Souq Al Jami mall.
How to Get There: From the visitor parking area, take the escalator or elevator up to the Souq Al Jami level. Once inside the souq, look for the well-known golden arches of McDonald's.
Guide Identification: Your guide will typically be wearing a specific uniform or holding a sign to be easily identifiable in front of the McDonald's outlet.
Arrival Time: Plan to arrive at the McDonald's location at least 15 minutes before your scheduled tour time to ensure a prompt start.
Things to note
For Women
Body Coverage: Clothing must be loose-fitting, non-transparent, and cover you from the wrists to the ankles. Avoid tight or figure-hugging clothes.
Head Covering: A headscarf (shayla) is mandatory and must cover all hair at all times while on the mosque grounds.
What NOT to Wear: Avoid shorts, swimwear, or anything transparent or white. T-shirts with slogans are also discouraged.
Clothing Availability: The mosque no longer provides free abayas (traditional cloaks) or headscarves. You must bring your own appropriate attire or purchase it from the shops in the Souq Al Jami visitor center before entry.
For Men
Body Coverage: You must wear long trousers (pants) and a sleeved shirt. Sleeves should reach at least the elbows.
What NOT to Wear: Shorts, tight clothing, or sleeveless shirts (tank tops) are strictly prohibited. T-shirts with slogans or inappropriate images are also discouraged.
General Rules for All Visitors
Tattoos: Any visible tattoos must be covered.
Shoes: Shoes must be removed before entering the prayer halls, so slip-on shoes are a practical choice.
Behavior: Avoid intimate behavior such as holding hands or kissing, and refrain from making hand gestures or poses considered disrespectful while taking photos.
Adhering to these rules is essential, as entry will be denied if the dress code is not met upon arrival.
Free Cancellation
Free Cancellation up to 24 hours before the activity starts. Late cancellation or your non-arrival is not refundable.
