September 2023
On my return from Socotra to Europe I have a several-hour layover in Abu Dhabi. Since I’ve never been here before, I decide to make the most of the time and visit the iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, located just a few kilometres from the airport.
Transfer from the airport
I leave my luggage in the airport storage and set off on a quick trip. You can reach the mosque by public transport, but the fastest and most comfortable option is a taxi. The trip there and back cost me about 40 EUR.
The taxi driver, originally from Bangladesh, was incredibly helpful and communicative. On the way I learned a lot about his life, about Bangladesh and about his experiences in Abu Dhabi.
Arrival and entrance area
As soon as I get off, I find that the actual entrance is still quite a distance from the mosque building. However, it turns out not to be a problem — the visitor route is designed through a shopping area with souvenirs and refreshments, so the walk is comfortable. Longer distances are bridged by a series of escalators.
Soon I encounter the first check — it concerns clothing. Before entering I recommend checking the dress code. My shorts just above the knees were accepted, but generally you should not have exposed shoulders or legs. Definitely avoid any revealing clothing.
Entry is free and the security check is quick.
First impressions
I arrive at the mosque in the evening, just after sunset. There are fewer people, no crowds. The monumental domes, white marble and water features combined with atmospheric lighting create a stunning sight. The light just after sunset offers ideal conditions for photographing the exteriors.
Photography and moving around the grounds
On the mosque’s website I read that tripods are only allowed outdoors. In the end I can use it throughout the visit — nobody objects. Photography is permitted almost everywhere.
Staff keep order — if I stray off the designated route, they simply and politely guide me back. My photographic equipment arouses curiosity among visitors and staff, who clearly show that they are pleased by my interest in the mosque.
I go inside. Everything feels grand, yet somewhat cold and sterile. Some parts are accessible only to look into — they can be photographed from the inside, but entry is not allowed.
Long colonnades alternate with less pompous areas decorated with striking mosaics. Through the corridors I reach the main courtyard, which is probably the most photogenic spot of the complex. It is the busiest area with visitors and at some iconic spots you have to wait a while for a photo. Everything proceeds calmly and with respect. Even here nobody objects to my fairly large tripod.
Departure and back to the airport
The whole tour takes me about an hour. After it’s over I board the local mini shuttle bus which takes me back to the complex’s shopping center. If you forgot to buy something at the entrance, here you have a second chance.
Then I call my favorite Bangladeshi taxi driver again and on the way to the airport I still manage a quick stop at the McDrive.
Conclusion
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is exactly the kind of place worth seeing once in a lifetime. Easy accessibility, free entry and great organization make the visit a wonderful addition to a stay in Abu Dhabi. If I had more time, I would definitely like to see other icons of this city as well, but during my transfer there was no time left for that.
Facts about the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Official name: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
City: Abu Dhabi
Built: 1996 – 2007, the largest mosque in the United Arab Emirates
Entrance: Free
Photography: Allowed (tripod officially only outdoors, but commonly tolerated indoors as well)
Tour duration: approx. 1 hour