Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque — Visitor Information

Architecture and Features

The mosque is renowned for its refined architecture and artistic detail.

White marble covers the façades, walls, and floors, creating a sense of light and purity.
There are 82 domes of different sizes, forming the mosque’s elegant and balanced silhouette.
Four minarets, each over 100 meters tall, stand at the corners of the complex.
The inner courtyard is decorated with marble floral mosaics.
Inside, you will find one of the world’s largest hand-woven carpets.
Crystal chandeliers adorned with gold and crystals illuminate the prayer halls.

Every detail reflects a blend of architectural traditions — from Andalusian to Ottoman — crafted by artists and artisans from around the world.

Visiting Hours

Saturday — Thursday  09:00 — 21:00 (last entry around 20:30)

Friday 09:00 — 12:00

15:00 — 21:00 (after Friday prayer)

During Ramadan, opening hours may change. Please check the official mosque website for the most up-to-date schedule.

The best time to visit and take photos is early in the morning after opening or about one hour before sunset, when the light is soft and the mosque is less crowded.

Dress Code 

There is no clothing rental at the mosque. All visitors must arrive dressed appropriately, otherwise entry will be denied.

For Women

Clothing must be modest and fully covering.

Required:

• Long dress, skirt, or trousers covering the ankles
• Long sleeves to the wrists
• Covered chest and back
• Headscarf covering all hair

Not allowed:

• Short sleeves
• Bare shoulders
• Shorts or skirts above the ankles
• Tight or transparent clothing
• Low-cut tops

For Men

Required:

• Long trousers (clothing above the knee is not permitted)
• T-shirt or shirt with sleeves

Not allowed:

• Shorts
• Sleeveless tops
• Clothing with offensive text or graphics

For Children

The same rules apply as for adults:

• Shoulders must be covered
• Legs must be covered

If You Arrive Without Suitable Clothing

The mosque does not provide clothing for free, but there are shops on the premises where you can purchase:

• abayas for women
• headscarves
• long cover-ups
• sometimes modest shirts or garments for men                                                          These shops are located before the main entrance. If your outfit does not meet the dress code, security staff will direct you there.

Etiquette Inside the Mosque

The mosque is an active place of worship, so visitors are expected to behave respectfully.

• keep your voice low
• do not eat or drink inside
• do not disturb people during prayer
• do not use drones
• avoid public displays of affection

Photo

Photography is allowed as long as all rules are respected.

You may:

• photograph the architecture and interiors without flash
• take photos of people only with their permission
• maintain a calm and respectful atmosphere

Portrait photography inside the mosque is permitted only in designated areas.

The mosque is especially beautiful at sunrise and in the evening, when soft light highlights the white marble and the reflections in the surrounding pools.

Official information: visitabudhabi.ae/en/things-to-do/culture/landmarks-and-architecture/sheikh-zayed-grand-mosque www.szgmc.gov.ae

Photoshoot at Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is not just one of Abu Dhabi’s most iconic landmarks. It is a space of light, silence, and architectural perfection.

White marble, open courtyards, reflections of water, and soft natural light create a unique atmosphere for refined, aesthetic photography.

A photoshoot here is not about posing — it is about feeling the space, the calm, and the natural beauty of the moment.

This location is especially ideal for:

• couples
• families
• individual portraits
• elegant lifestyle sessions

All sessions are conducted with full respect for the cultural and religious significance of the mosque, in a calm and dignified atmosphere.

For bookings and availability, please visit
photographerabudhabi.com