Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Eighty-two white marble domes, the world's largest hand-knotted carpet and chandeliers of Swarovski crystal — the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is the UAE's spiritual masterpiece and its most moving building, open to visitors of every faith.
Since September 2026 visitors pay a small entry fee (AED 10, or AED 5 with an Emirates ID) and book a time slot online. Modest dress is required, and abayas are no longer lent, so dress appropriately before you arrive. We run cultural mornings here — arriving ahead of the crowds, with time for the reflective pools — and can pair it with Qasr Al Watan for a full day of Abu Dhabi grandeur.
Photo: Unsplash
Plan your visit
- Where: Al Rawdah, Abu Dhabi, near the Maqta and Sheikh Zayed bridges
- Opening hours: Saturday to Thursday 9am–8:30pm. Friday 9–11:30am and 2:30–8:30pm
- Entry fee: Since September 2026, visitors pay AED 10 (AED 5 with an Emirates ID). Entry stays free for worshippers, over-60s, under-3s and People of Determination. Book a slot online at szgmc.gov.ae
- Free guided tours: Daily tours of about 30–45 minutes, usually at 11am, 1pm and 5pm
- Time needed: 1–2 hours
- Dress code: Women: loose clothing covering arms and legs, and a headscarf. Men: long trousers and sleeves. No shorts, sleeveless, tight or see-through clothes. Abayas are no longer lent; they can be bought at the souq on site
Tips from our team
- Check your clothes before leaving the hotel: visitors who are not dressed correctly are turned away.
- Avoid Friday midday prayers.
- Late afternoon is the best time: you see the mosque in daylight, at sunset and lit up after dark.
Getting there with Arabian Ring
The mosque is about 20 minutes from central Abu Dhabi and about 1 hour 15 minutes from Dubai. We drop you at the visitor centre entrance and wait while you visit. It pairs well with Qasr Al Watan and the Louvre Abu Dhabi on a full Abu Dhabi day trip.
Frequently asked questions
Is Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque free?
No. Since September 2026, tourists pay AED 10, or AED 5 with an Emirates ID. Worshippers, over-60s, under-3s and People of Determination go free.
Can I borrow an abaya?
No, abayas are no longer lent. Wear suitable clothes, or buy one at the souq on site.
Prices and opening hours were checked in October 2026 and can change. We confirm the latest times and ticket prices when you book.
Put Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque on your ring.
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