Abu Dhabi White Mosque: A Guide to Sheikh Zayed Mosque
After spending some time in Abu Dhabi, we were thrilled to finally explore the Sheikh Zayed Mosque, also known as the White Mosque of Abu Dhabi. Of course, the iconic landmark of the UAE Capital is one of the most popular sites to explore while in the country. Sheikh Zayed Mosque of Abu Dhabi is…
After spending some time in Abu Dhabi, we were thrilled to finally explore the Sheikh Zayed Mosque, also known as the White Mosque of Abu Dhabi. Of course, the iconic landmark of the UAE Capital is one of the most popular sites to explore while in the country.
Sheikh Zayed Mosque of Abu Dhabi is one of the largest mosques in the world and one of the most beautiful we have visited so far. You can easily spot the mosque (also due to its glamourous white colour) from the plane.
While visiting Abu Dhabi, we realised that there is not much clear instruction on how to get there, what to wear and also, reliable fresh information. This guide to Abu Dhabi Mosque breaks down everything you need to know before visiting Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
The Fascinating Story Behind Sheikh Zayed Mosque Abu Dhabi
The late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father and first president of the UAE, envisioned this grand mosque to unify the country’s cultural identity.
Constructed between 1996 and 2007, it can accommodate over 40,000 worshippers and cost approximately $545 million to build. Blending Arab, Mughal, Moorish and Persian architectural influences, this contemporary mosque integrates modern amenities with artistic craftsmanship.
Materials were sourced globally – marble from Italy, semi-precious stones from India, crystals from Germany, and ceramics from Turkey and China. Yet skilled Emirati artisans embellished the mosque themselves. Their fine workmanship is evident in every hand-carved floral motif and intricate mosaic tile.
Visiting soon? Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed Mosque
Watch our Video guide about Abu Dhabi
How to get to the Sheikh Zayed Mosque
The easiest way to get to Abu Dhabi Grand Mosque is by taxi. You can hail a taxi on the side of the street or book through the Careem App. The taxi will drop you at the entrance, and the fare is less than $10 from the city centre.
If you are visiting Abu Dhabi on a budget, the option is to take the Bus, which is efficient and runs every 20 minutes. You must purchase the transport card before boarding. Depending on traffic, it will take about 40 minutes to get to the Mosque from the city centre and costs less than $1.
You can also opt for a fully organised tour like this one, which assures you pick-up and drop-off at your hotel, with a guided tour inside the mosque.
If you are staying in Dubai, you can organise a one-day trip to Abu Dhabi on your own and include the Mosque. Alternatively, you can book this tour of Abu Dhabi Highlights on a day trip from Dubai.
It’s free to enter
Entrance to the White Mosque is free. You can book your time slot online, and this will give you a free ticket to the Sheikh Zayed Mosque of Abu Dhabi.
There is no restriction on how many tickets you get. We wanted to explore the Mosque during the day but also catch the best lights at sunset, and it was allowed.
What to Wear to the Sheikh Zayed Mosque
This is the most important part of our Abu Dhabi Sheikh Zayed Mosque Guide, as many travellers forget that you are in a Muslim country and must dress appropriately.
Always modestly cover yourself. For ladies, you must cover your full body, including ankles, shoulders, sleeves, and hair. The face, hands, and feet are the only areas of skin visible. In the photo above, you see Alessia’s outfit for the day exploring the white mosque.
Another consideration for women is not to wear tight clothes; leggings are not allowed. If you don’t dress appropriately, you will be denied entry. Follow the official site guide here!
From 2023, they won’t borrow clothes, so you have to provide for yourself. Take a traditional Abaya at the shop at the Mosque or in the city centre.
There are no colour restrictions on clothes. Men should wear long trousers and long-sleeved shirts at least below the elbow. Shorts are not allowed.
Where can you buy an Abaya in Abu Dhabi
Alessia bought her beautiful white Abaya in downtown Abu Dhabi, at a specialized shop. The fabric is incredible and soft at touch, with basic transparency. It is white as you can wear as you please. We paid 140 AED (£30 | $38 | €35) for this simple but ornate with garment abaya, but definitely you can find it cheaper.
If you are not familiar with the term, the abaya is a long dress, loose-fit, which doesn’t let shine through women’s curves, like a robe and often very modest, which covers the entire body. The traditional Abaya will not cover face, hands and feet.
Don’t forget to remove your shoes before stepping onto the lush carpet!
In between the dress code for Visiting Sheikh Zayed Mosque, you must remember to remove your shoes upon entry to the pray area.
Can you wear jeans to the Grand Mosque Abu Dhabi?
It’s recommended not to wear tight jeans or pants when visiting the Grand Mosque. Loose fitting trousers that cover your ankles are acceptable, but avoid any leggings, shorts, ripped jeans or tight clothing. Free ankle-length robes for men are provided.
Best time to visit the Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed Mosque
There is no perfect time to visit the White Mosque as it depends on the season. However, it is always hot in the UAE. Overall, the Mosque is open from 9AM to 10PM, except on Friday, which is only open to Muslims for prayer.
If you want to visit it on Friday, you must go after 4.30 PM. Also, check the official website for more information about opening times, as during Ramadan, the holy month for Muslims, entry schedules might vary.
Best tours of the White Mosque
The white Mosque offers free tours, which are available on a walk-in basis. You must check this official website for the tour times. The tour of the mosque lasts about 45-60 minutes.
These tours focus on the main prayer hall, chandeliers, courtyard, and exterior. Special Access Tours into restricted areas happen on weekdays – book ahead online. We regret missing out on those! You can also sign up for a night tour experience.
Instead, if you want a more accurate tour, bespoke for you or with a group, check our great suggestions below. Booking a tour of Abu Dhabi’s main attractions offers a more relaxed and unique experience.
Going on your own? Essential Areas Not to Miss Inside Sheikh Zayed Mosque
From the 12th century-inspired courtyard to the soaring main prayer hall, every inch impresses with its lavish details. Don’t rush – we spent nearly 2 hours gaping at all there is to admire! Here are the key highlights:
The Breathtaking Courtyard
The mosque’s vast courtyard, with its floral marble columns, provides a stunning first glimpse. The centrepiece is a majestic ablution fountain that amplifies the courtyard’s sense of splendour.
The Main Prayer Hall
Topping the list of Instagrammable spots is the bright, high-ceilinged main prayer room. Here, you’ll find the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet, glittering Swarovski crystal chandeliers and gorgeously illuminated niches pointing towards Mecca.
The Chandeliers Gallery
Equally gorgeous chandeliers hang in the corridors lining the courtyard. Don’t miss the chance to see these impressive pieces up close in this gallery. We stood mesmerised by shifting light reflections as sunlight poured in from skylit ceilings.
Best photo spots in Abu Dhabi White Mosque
Surely, one of the main things that attract you to the White Mosque is the incredible Instagrammable place. We got you, and we were intrigued by the architecture and the details which make this photo you are seeing in this Sheikh Zayed Mosque Guide unique.
The centre of the mosque is off-limits, but there are perimeters where you can take photos. The sun shines and reflects on the white surfaces all day, making photos stunning.
However, away from the photos inside the mosque, we suggest you head to the opposite side, at Wahat AlKarama Monument, to snap some photos of its entirety.
While on our Dubai and Abu Dhabi itinerary, we visited the White Mosque three times to get the best photos. If you have time in Abu Dhabi, we suggest at least a morning and sunset visit.
Where to eat and drink
We had breakfast and lunch at the Sheikh Zayed Mosque of Abu Dhabi. Before entering, you will pass through a series of shops and food facilities. There is a great range of coffee shops, street food and more where you can find refreshments.
How much time do you need for your visit
You must account for about 2 hours to explore the Mosque. If you take a tour of 45 minutes, you might need a little bit more than 2 hours, and if you plan to get some photos from the Wahat AlKarama Monument Instagram spot, you must account for an extra hour.
What to pack
Pack light, as Abu Dhabi is very hot, and you will be exhausted after a full day of exploring. Also, consider that you have to go through a tough security scan, which doesn’t allow most items like in an airport check.
In terms of equipment, you can carry your camera (we have two DSLR Cameras with us) and lens. I had an extra 70-300 mm, and there were no problems at all). There are no explicit signs, but you are not allowed to carry invasive tripods. We left our hotel and carried a small one, which was tolerable.
If you want to carry professional equipment, you must fill out the required media form in advance.
Where to stay near Abu Dhabi Grand Mosque
Anantara Eastern Mangroves
Traders Hotel
The Ritz-Carlton
Novotel Al Bustan
Wrap up – Sheikh Zayed Mosque Guide
We couldn’t leave you with our final impressions. It was on our bucket list for years, and believe us, the stunning mosque was even better than expected. It is truly a wonder that you must explore.
If you are just passing by the UAE and spending a layover in Abu Dhabi of 6+ hours, you must consider a quick visit. No superlatives can do justice to the splendour within – you must experience it yourself!
Beyond impressive facts and figures, the mosque’s beauty stems from harmoniously balancing contemporary style with cultural touches. Its grandeur left us humbled yet uplifted. We highly recommend adding Sheikh Zayed Mosque to any Abu Dhabi itinerary for an illuminating glimpse into Emirati heritage.
