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Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre Launches Three New Cultural Publications During the 34th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair

As part of its ongoing efforts to enrich the cultural landscape of the UAE and further its mission to preserve and promote Islamic heritage, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre (SZGMC) has launched three new cultural publications in conjunction with the 34th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair.

Among the highlights is the audiobook edition of “The Houses of God: From the Great Mosque of Kairouan to Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque”. The work traces the evolution of Islamic architecture through 19 of the most iconic mosques across the world, culminating in the architectural grandeur of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. The audiobook supports the Centre’s commitment to accessibility and inclusion, offering a valuable cultural resource for a wider audience, including individuals who are visually impaired. Notably, the recording was carried out by a team of skilled Emirati youth from within the Centre, delivering high standards in both language and narration. Given the book’s significance, preparations are currently underway to publish translated editions in Spanish, French, and Mandarin.

Further enriching the cultural offering, the Centre also released “Light and Peace”, a publication that documents the six main sections and rare artefacts of the Light & Peace Museum, located within the Dome of Peace. The book captures the essence of the museum and reflects the Centre’s vision of fostering mutual understanding and dialogue between cultures through shared human values.

In collaboration with educational institutions, the Centre published a children’s storybook titled “Deirat Al-Droor wa Al-Tawale’ on Grandpa Saeed’s Urqūb’( Ridge)  ”. Co-authored by Emirati writer Moza Al Shamsi and Zayed University students Riesa Al Qubaisi and Fatima Al Mansoori, the book introduces children to traditional Emirati knowledge of astronomy and seasonal cycles in a form accessible to young readers. The initiative reflects SZGMC’s commitment to social responsibility and cultural education among younger generations.

All three publications, along with the Centre’s existing collection of 27 titles on Islamic civilisation and the arts, are available at Al Jami’ Library in the Peace Dome, as well as at Union Modern Art Gallery and Discover Emirati Culture, both located in Souq Al Jami’.

President of the Republic of Lebanon Visits Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi

His Excellency Joseph Aoun, President of the Republic of Lebanon, visited Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, accompanied by His Excellency Youssef Raji, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Emigrants of Lebanon, along with the accompanying delegation.

The visit began with a stop at the mausoleum of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, may his soul rest in peace, where the delegation reflected on his enduring legacy and wise vision that laid the foundations for a culture of tolerance, coexistence, and peace among nations.

His Excellency and the delegation were received by His Excellency Dr. Yousif Al Obaidli, Director-General of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre, who accompanied  them on a tour of the mosque’s halls and outer corridors. The delegation was introduced to the mosque’s global message, which promotes dialogue, coexistence, and openness—values deeply rooted in the legacy of the late founding father. They were also briefed on the significant role played by the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre in promoting the essence of Islamic culture and fostering cross-cultural understanding worldwide.

During the tour, the delegation learned about the mosque’s foundation history and admired its architectural grandeur, intricate design elements, and rare artefacts—an embodiment of the finest contributions of Islamic civilisation throughout the ages. The mosque’s design harmoniously unites diverse artistic and architectural styles, creating a singular masterpiece that celebrates the beauty of cultural convergence.

On the sidelines of the visit, His Excellency stated:

“This magnificent religious landmark—through its beauty, architecture, and symbolic significance—reflects the UAE’s genuine commitment to preserving places of worship and ensuring they remain sanctuaries for connection, prayer, and unity.”

At the conclusion of the visit, the guest was presented with a gift reflecting the aesthetic spirit of the mosque: a compass inspired by the design of the mosque’s chandeliers, and a copy of the Centre’s latest publication, "Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Lights of Peace". The book offers readers a visually rich journey through the mosque’s architectural marvels, showcasing award-winning photographs from the Spaces of Light competition that highlight the mosque’s unique design features.

Foreign Minister of Peru visits Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi

Elmer Schialer Salcedo, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Peru, visited the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, accompanied by Alberto Alejandro Farje Orna, Ambassador of Peru to the UAE,

The Foreign Minister of Peru and his delegation were accompanied by Dr. Yousef Al-Obaidli, Director-General of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre, during their tour of the mosque’s halls and exterior corridors.

They were introduced to the mosque’s cultural message of coexistence, tolerance, and openness, inspired by the legacy and values of the founding father. They also learned about the significant role of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre in promoting Islamic culture and enhancing cross-cultural communication worldwide.

The delegation was briefed on the mosque’s history, its architectural beauty, and the distinctive Islamic art that adorns its every corner. They were also introduced to the mosque’s unique collections and the finest examples of Islamic civilization, where diverse artistic and architectural designs have converged in harmony, creating a masterpiece that reflects the beauty of cultural unity.

On the sidelines of the visit, the minister said: “I feel grateful to be in this magnificent mosque. It is a place of worship and a space for tolerance, where people from all over the world gather under its roof. I believe that if our world had more landmarks like this mosque, and if the same efforts were made by men and women to build, organise, manage, and lead them, peace would prevail across the globe.”

At the end of the visit, the mosque presented the guest with a gift reflecting the mosque’s beauty, a compass inspired by its chandeliers, along with a copy of the book "Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Lights of Peace", the latest publication from the Cent The book highlights the mosque’s unique architectural style and takes readers on a visual journey to discover its architectural and artistic grandeur, featuring award-winning images from the “Spaces of Light” Award.

Continuing its efforts to highlight the Mosque’s global role in promoting cultural and humanitarian exchange, and as part of the ''Minarets of the Two Capitals'' initiative within its ''Jusoor'' programme

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre showcases a model of the mosque and its publications at its latest exhibition in Moscow

 

As part of its strategy to highlight the civilisational role of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque as an exceptional example among global places of worship, embodying the UAE’s values of tolerance, coexistence, and cultural exchange, and within its “Minarets of the Two Capitals” initiative under the “Jusoor” programme, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre inaugurated a mosque model, a mobile library, and the “Spaces of Light” photography Award exhibition at the Moscow Cathedral Mosque.

The inauguration was led by a delegation headed by His Excellency Dr Yousif Al Obaidli, Director-General of the Centre, and attended by His Excellency Dr Mohammed Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Ambassador to the Russian Federation, and His Eminence Sheikh Rawi Ainuddin, Mufti of the Russian Federation and Head of the Religious Administration of Muslims of Russia.

The inauguration of the mosque model is part of the Centre’s “Jusoor” programme, which seeks to promote the UAE’s cultural image worldwide. Since 2012, more than 21 mosque models have been displayed internationally. Prominent among these were those at the UAE Embassy in Moscow; the Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia in Kuala Lumpur—one of the foremost museums in Southeast Asia and the Islamic world; the Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan Centre for Arabic Language and Islamic Studies in Beijing; and the Museum of Peace and Reconciliation in Kazakhstan.

The mobile library featured the Centre’s 27 publications specialising in Arab and Islamic culture, highlighting values of tolerance, coexistence, and fraternity—core principles embraced by the UAE and actively promoted worldwide. Meanwhile, the photography exhibition presented a selection of outstanding winning images from the “Spaces of Light” Photography Award, which has drawn extensive participation from professional and amateur photographers across diverse backgrounds and cultures.

The programme also featured two lectures by His Excellency the Centre’s Director-General, titled “Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: A Place for All and Creativity in Specialised Fields.” The first lecture was delivered at the Moscow State Institute of International Relations and attended by students of the Institute, including Emirati students. The second lecture was held at Moscow State University, attended by several university students.

 

Commenting on the comprehensive programme, His Excellency Dr Yousif Al Obaidli, Director-General of the Centre, said:

“Since its establishment, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre has represented a unique example among places of worship, embodying values of tolerance and peace. Over the years, it has become a haven where millions of visitors from all nationalities gather annually, serving as a meeting point for diverse cultures from around the world. By organising this programme in Moscow, the Centre reaffirms its civilisational role, representing the UAE’s renowned principles of tolerance and coexistence. This visit aims to convey the Centre’s message of coexistence, tolerance, and openness, while strengthening cooperation and exchanging experiences with Russia’s cultural and academic institutions.”

His Excellency Dr Mohammed Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Ambassador to the Russian Federation, stated:

“ The late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan envisioned the Grand Mosque as a beacon of tolerance, beauty, and Islamic creativity. Today, we share this vision in the heart of the Russian capital at its iconic mosque, which itself symbolises a profound religious and historical legacy for Russia’s Muslims. This architectural exchange between the two mosques conveys a message of hope and dialogue, underscoring that the dialogue of civilisations is expressed not merely through words but through actions and initiatives that build bridges of understanding and closeness among nations.”

On the sidelines of the programme, the Centre’s delegation visited some of Moscow’s most prominent museums and cultural institutions, including the Kremlin Museums, the Museum of Oriental Art, and the Russian National Library. Additionally, the Centre’s Director-General held meetings with the Director of the Moscow State Institute of International Relations, the Director of the Russian National Library, and officials from the Fund for Support of Islamic Culture, Science, and Education. Discussions focused on the Mosque’s cultural initiatives, notably the Light & Peace Museum and the experiences offered to visitors from around the globe, as well as opportunities to further enhance collaboration between the Centre and these institutions.

Notably, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is among the leading landmarks visited by members of the Russian community, including both residents and tourists in the UAE. Since its opening, the Mosque has welcomed approximately 2,914,000 Russian visitors, with 293,667 visiting in 2024 alone.

The Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia Visits Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque – Abu Dhabi

Her Excellency Sam Mostyn, Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, visited Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, accompanied by His Excellency Dr. Fahad Al Taffaq, UAE Ambassador to Australia, His Excellency Ridwan Joudet, Australian Ambassador to the UAE, and the accompanying delegation.

Her Excellency and the delegation commenced their visit with a stop at the mausoleum of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, may his soul rest in peace, reflecting on his enduring legacy and visionary leadership that significantly contributed to promoting a culture of tolerance, coexistence, and peace among peoples around the world.

The delegation, accompanied by His Excellency Dr. Yousif Al Obaidli, Director-General of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre, toured the mosque’s halls and external corridors. They were introduced to the Grand Mosque’s civilisational message, which advocates coexistence, tolerance, and openness to the world — principles inspired by the values and achievements of the late Founding Father.

The delegation also learned about the Centre’s pivotal role in promoting Islamic culture and fostering cross-cultural communication globally. They were briefed on the history of the mosque’s establishment and explored its stunning features, marvelling at the exquisite Islamic architectural artistry that is evident throughout the mosque. They admired the rare artefacts and the finest expressions of Islamic art and architecture spanning different eras and regions, harmoniously brought together in this magnificent monument, reflecting the beauty of cultural fusion and unity in a single creative work.

On the sidelines of the visit, Her Excellency remarked:

"It has been an honour to visit the mosque today. It would have been unthinkable to be in this part of the world without visiting one of its most significant landmarks—an enduring symbol that plays a vital role in deepening our understanding of Islam as a faith of peace, compassion, and mutual understanding, where all are welcomed."

She further added:

"It has been a true joy for us to spend time in this extraordinary place, surrounded by exquisite craftsmanship drawn from across the world. This will be a visit we shall never forget, and I sincerely hope to return many times."

At the end of the visit, the guest of the mosque was presented with a commemorative gift, including a compass inspired by the design of the mosque’s iconic chandeliers and a copy of the latest publication issued by the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre, “Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Lights of Peace”. The book offers readers a visual journey through the mosque’s architectural splendour, featuring a selection of award-winning photographs from the “Spaces of Light” Photography Award, celebrating the mosque’s unique architectural artistry.

 

 

Prime Minister of North Macedonia Visits Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi

His Excellency Dr Hristijan Mickoski, Prime Minister of the Republic of North Macedonia, visited the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi today. He was accompanied by His Excellency Abdelqader Mohammedi, Ambassador of North Macedonia to the UAE, along with an official delegation.

Dr Mickoski and his delegation toured the mosque’s prayer halls and courtyards, accompanied by His Excellency Dr Yusuf Al-Obaidli, Director General of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre. During their tour, they were briefed on the mosque’s central role in promoting coexistence, tolerance, and openness, values deeply rooted in the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the UAE's founding father. They also learned about the Centre’s ongoing efforts in promoting the authentic Islamic culture, building bridges with diverse world cultures, and distinguishing the mosque as a unique place of worship.

The delegation was introduced to the mosque's history, admired its unique architectural details, and explored its extensive collection of artworks and artefacts, demonstrating Islamic civilisation's artistic and architectural heritage. The mosque's architecture represents a harmonious fusion of different cultural styles, embodying unity and creativity.

At the end of the visit, Dr Mickoski was presented with a gift—a compass inspired by the mosque’s renowned chandeliers—and the Centre's latest publication, "Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Lights of Peace." The book features a visual journey highlighting the mosque’s architectural magnificence through award-winning photographs from the "Spaces of Light" photography Award.

 

President of the Republic of Armenia Visits Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi

His Excellency Vahagn Khachaturyan, President of the Republic of Armenia, visited the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, accompanied by His Excellency Karen Krikorian, Ambassador of the Republic of Armenia to the UAE, and their delegation.

The President and his delegation began their visit by paying their respects at the Mausoleum of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, reflecting on his enduring legacy and his commitment to promoting tolerance, coexistence, and peace among people across the world.

Accompanied by His Excellency Dr. Yousef Al Obaidli, Director General of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre, the delegation continued their tour through the mosque’s grand halls and external courtyards, learning about the mosque’s pivotal role in fostering cultural dialogue and promoting understanding between diverse cultures. They explored the mosque’s architectural splendor, which showcases the richness of Islamic design and craftsmanship, along with its unique collections that embody the finest contributions of Islamic civilization.

In a statement during the visit, President Khachaturyan remarked, "This mosque is a symbol for all of humanity. The visionaries who designed and built this monument have truly succeeded in their goal. I am confident that it will continue to serve its message of peace."

At the conclusion of the visit, President Khachaturyan was presented with a gift reflecting the mosque’s beauty, along with a copy of the book "Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque...  Lights of Peace", the latest publication from the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre. The book offers readers a photographic exploration of the mosque’s architectural marvels, featuring award-winning images from the Spaces of Light photography Award .

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi: Premier Religious, Cultural, and Touristic Destination During Eid Holidays

Diverse Experiences Await Mosque Guests

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre has prepared to welcome worshippers for Eid Al-Fitr prayers, ensuring services that provide comfort, tranquility, and spiritual fulfillment. In addition, the mosque will offer various enriching experiences to visitors during the Eid holidays. Last year, the mosque welcomed 217,052 guests during the Eid Al-Fitr holidays, including 98,427 worshippers—among them 37,716 who performed Eid prayers—and 118,082 visitors.

Cultural Tours: Rich and Enlightening Experiences

In celebration of Eid, the Centre has enhanced its cultural tours to highlight Islamic and Emirati heritage associated with the occasion. Conducted in Arabic and English, these tours emphasize the significance of Eid Al-Fitr and its underlying values of equality and unity among diverse cultures. Guests also learn about local customs such as family gatherings, Eid gifts (Eidiyah), and other traditions deeply embedded in UAE culture. The tours further enrich visitors’ knowledge of the mosque’s architectural and artistic elements, underscoring its role in promoting Islamic culture and arts.

Exceptional Experiences

Guests can enjoy unique experiences such as the “Unseen Glimpses of the Mosque” tours, offering an extraordinary cultural day. Additionally, nighttime cultural tours, “Sura,” available from 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM, provide a rare glimpse into the mosque’s maintenance and special cleaning activities. Visitors can also benefit from the “El-Delleel” multimedia device, offering virtual cultural tours in 14 international languages.

Family-Friendly Experience

Recognized as a leading cultural and touristic landmark, the Centre provides an ideal family experience, including the “Souq Al Jami” marketplace, the Peace Dome featuring the “Light & Peace Museum,” and the interactive “Diya – A Universe of Light” experience. Visitors can spend an entire day exploring over 50 commercial outlets, restaurants, luxury stores, kiosks, and diverse entertainment areas catering to family members of all ages. More information is available at www.souqaljami.ae.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a unique religious, cultural, and tourist destination and a remarkable architectural icon. It aims to highlight the tolerant spirit of Islamic culture and foster intercultural dialogue. Welcoming visitors with its magnificent presence and exceptional design, the mosque continues to affirm its position as one of Abu Dhabi’s most prominent landmarks.

More Than 105,000 Worshippers Gather at Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi for 27th Night of Ramadan

Creating a Unique Spiritual Atmosphere with Comprehensive Services and Organisational Support for Worshippers' Comfort.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi welcomed a record-breaking 105,310 guests on the 26th day and the night of the 27th of Ramadan, marking the mosque’s highest-ever attendance.

A total of 77,710 worshippers attended prayers, including 11,483 who performed Taraweeh and 61,050 who observed Tahajjud prayers in an atmosphere filled with tranquility and spiritual reflection. Additionally, 27,600 guests attended the mosque’s Iftar meals, demonstrating a remarkable display of cultural diversity united by shared spiritual values.

The mosque’s prayer halls, corridors, and expansive courtyards were fully occupied, vividly illustrating the profound Islamic principles of unity and inclusivity that brought together worshippers from diverse backgrounds. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre provided comprehensive and exceptional organizational support, ensuring comfort and convenience for all attendees.

The night was marked by recitations from Fawzi Buwan and Imam Idris Abkar of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Imam Abkar led the prayers, seeking continued security and prosperity for the UAE, wisdom and guidance for its leadership, mercy and forgiveness for the nation’s founders and all deceased Muslims, and the acceptance of prayers and good deeds from everyone present.

We Volunteer to Give Back to Our Homeland

In alignment with the Centre’s core value, “We Volunteer to Give Back to Our Homeland,” and its strategic pillars, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre’s organizing committees formed teams comprising the Centre’s staff to ensure all necessary services for worshippers arriving from across the UAE. These teams worked alongside volunteers from Emirates Red Crescent, “Absher Ya Watan” volunteer group, “Ma’an” volunteer team, as well as police officers, paramedics, civil defense personnel, and traffic management staff from Mawaqif and Saaed. The Centre increased its volunteer numbers, exceeding 580 volunteers who collectively provided exemplary services, facilitating a smooth and spiritually enriching experience for all worshippers.

 

Integrated Services

Anticipating high attendance on the 27th night of Ramadan, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre proactively arranged comprehensive facilities, providing 8,379 parking spaces, including 1,500 dedicated spaces for women and 60 for People of Determination. Additional parking was made available opposite Grand Mosque Street near Al Ta’ayush – Gate 7., Zayed Sports City, Erth Hotel, and the mosque’s eastern parking areas adjacent to Wahat Al Karama. The Centre also organized shuttle buses to efficiently transport worshippers between the parking locations and the mosque, ensuring smooth traffic flow around the mosque.

Furthermore, Abu Dhabi Police implemented a thorough traffic management plan, increasing police presence and intensifying traffic patrols on all roads leading to the mosque to prevent congestion and facilitate smooth access for worshippers.

Dedicated Efforts and Continuous Support

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre utilized all available resources to serve the worshippers, from welcoming them at the parking areas to managing their entry into prayer halls. More than 70 electric vehicles were deployed to transport worshippers to the mosque’s facilities and prayer halls, along with over 3,500 comfortable seating arrangements and more than 50 wheelchairs for elderly visitors and People of Determination. The mosque’s main prayer area was equipped with over 1,500 specially designed prayer rugs inspired by the mosque’s main carpet, and over 30,000 disposable prayer mats were provided in areas surrounding the courtyard. Additionally, the Centre distributed 3,000 Suhoor meals following Tahajjud prayers.

Sunrise to Sunrise _Around-the-Clock Service

Following the 27th night of Ramadan, the Centre’s teams maintained their high level of service, welcoming daily visitors from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM throughout the final ten days of Ramadan. During the holy month, the mosque received over 18,000 visitors each day, demonstrating the Centre’s unwavering commitment to providing comprehensive services around the clock.

 

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque- Abu Dhabi Welcomes Over 6.5 Million Worshippers and Visitors in 2024, Marking a 20% Increase from the Previous Year

Over 5,600 Cultural Tours Showcase the UAE’s Message of Peace and Coexistence

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre in Abu Dhabi welcomed 6,582,993 worshippers and visitors in the past year, marking a 20% increase compared to 2023. This included 2,259,275 worshippers and those fasting and 4,262,781 tourists, while 60,937 visitors utilized the mosque’s jogging track.

Among the total worshippers, 281,941 attended Friday prayers, while 709,875 participated in daily prayers. Ramadan and Eid prayers attracted 617,458 worshippers, with the 27th night of Ramadan 1445H (April 5) witnessing a record-breaking 87,186 attendees, including 70,680 worshippers, the highest number in the mosque’s history.

As part of the ‘Our Fasting Guests’ initiative, the Centre prepared 2,150,000 iftar meals, with 650,001 meals distributed within the mosque’s premises and 1.5 million meals delivered to labor accommodations across Abu Dhabi. Additionally, 30,000 Suhoor meals were provided during the last ten nights of Ramadan.

81% of Mosque Visitors from Outside the UAE

Reaffirming its status as a leading cultural tourism destination, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre recorded that 81% of its visitors in 2024 were international tourists, while 19% were residents of the UAE.

Among global visitors, Asia led with 52%, followed by Europe (33%), North America (8%), Africa (3%), South America (3%), and Australia (1%).

In terms of visitor nationalities, India topped the list with 841,980 visitors, followed by China (397,048), Russia (293,667), the United States (204,018), Germany (149,277), the United Kingdom (127,691), France (124,691), Italy (113,204), Pakistan (104,166), and the Philippines (86,898).

The highest single-day attendance was recorded on the second day of Eid al-Fitr (April 11), with 32,722 worshippers and visitors.

Meanwhile, the Centre’s cultural tour specialists conducted 5,607 guided tours , attracting 75,752 visitors from around the world. Additionally, 1,510 official delegation bookings were recorded, with 23,951 attendees taking part in guided experiences that highlighted the mosque’s cultural, religious, and architectural significance.

The mosque also welcomed 309 high-level delegations, including visits from 8 heads of state, a vice president, 3 state governors, 4 sheikhs and princes, 9 prime ministers, 7 deputy prime ministers, 11 parliament speakers, 63 ministers, 18 deputy ministers, 49 ambassadors and consuls, and 10 deputy ambassadors and consuls. Furthermore, 5 interfaith delegations, 62 military delegations, and 54 official delegations from various institutions visited the mosque. All attendees participated in cultural tours that provided insights into the mosque’s message of tolerance and civilizational dialogue, while also showcasing its unique Islamic architecture, visitor experiences, and world-class services.

The Centre further introduced a range of experiences that contributed to the increase in worshipper and visitor numbers, offering unique and immersive cultural journeys tailored to enhance the mosque’s visitor experience.

Among these initiatives is the ‘Unseen Glimpses’ tour, which takes visitors on exclusive guided explorations aboard club cars, unveiling hidden details of the mosque’s architecture and history that are not typically accessible in standard tours.

The Centre also launched the ‘Sura’ evening cultural tours, available from 10 PM to 8 AM, allowing guests—especially transit passengers—to experience the mosque’s serene atmosphere during the quieter nighttime hours. Participants gain rare insights into the mosque’s exceptional maintenance and cleaning processes, while also enjoying a tranquil and reflective ambiance that defines the mosque at night.

Visitors can also benefit from ‘El-Delleel’, a multimedia eGuide available in 14 languages, providing virtual cultural tours for an enhanced self-guided experience.

Additionally, ‘Souq Al Jami’ offers a diverse shopping and dining experience, featuring over 50 retail units, including restaurants, boutiques, kiosks, and entertainment spaces designed to cater to visitors of all ages. More details on the services available at Souq Al Jami’ can be accessed through www.souqaljami.ae.

The ‘Light & Peace Museum’

In the past year, His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, inaugurated the ‘Light & Peace Museum’ at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre, unveiling the ‘Diya – A Universe of Light’ immersive experience within the Peace Dome.

The museum features five sections: ‘Tolerance – A Guiding Light,’ ‘Sanctity and Worship – The Three Grand Mosques,’ ‘Precision and Beauty – The Spirit of Invention,’ ‘Tolerance and Openness – Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque,’ and ‘Universal Coexistence’; besides a dedicated family and children's section. The museum offers interactive exhibits that incorporate advanced multimedia technologies, showcasing rare and unique artifacts that reflect the museum’s message while providing engaging sensory storytelling, allowing visitors to actively engage with its rich cultural content and fostering dialogue between civilizations.

A key highlight of the museum is the ‘Diya – A Universe of Light’ interactive experience, a 360-degree immersive light display enhanced with sensory and auditory effects, including wind simulations that further elevate the experience.

Since its inauguration in late November, the museum has drawn significant interest from dignitaries, scholars, and enthusiasts of Islamic civilization and arts, welcoming 9,728 visitors to date.

115 Episodes of Cultural Series

In 2024, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre reaffirmed its pivotal role among Islamic thought institutions by presenting an enlightened image of Islam through its religious programs, which were introduced in a fresh new format. This included the launch of a series of short educational films inspired by the values of Islam.

As part of this initiative, the Centre introduced a new cultural video series titled ‘Kursi AlJami’, which explores various societal topics such as the best times for supplication, the meanings of the call to prayer, and interpretations of select Quranic verses, enriched by narratives from Islamic history and literature.

A second series, ‘Wamda Fiqhiyyah’, was also launched, featuring members of the UAE Council for Fatwa. This series focuses on religious and jurisprudential topics relevant to different segments of society, delivering content in a simplified manner that helps individuals understand their religious duties more effectively. Both series reinforce the mosque’s religious role and its commitment to serving the community.

The Centre continued to publish episodes of its existing religious and cultural series, including ‘The Beautiful Names of Allah,’ ‘Minbar Al Jami’, ‘Architecture and Arts,’ and ‘Gheras Al-Qiyam.’ It also produced the ‘Rare Books’ series, which presents excerpts from some of the most valuable and rare books housed in the mosque’s library. Additionally, through the ‘Manuscripts’ series, the Centre highlighted rare Islamic manuscripts available in microfiche format, offering the wider public insight into the historical treasures preserved within the library.

Throughout 2024, the Centre released 115 episodes across these cultural and religious series, further solidifying its mission to promote Islamic knowledge and heritage to a global audience.

New Publications

Last year, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre released its latest publication, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: A Lights of Peace, which takes readers on a visual journey through the mosque’s architectural beauty. The book features a collection of award-winning photographs from the ‘Spaces of Light’ Photography Award, showcasing the mosque’s distinctive architectural artistry.

In addition, the Centre published the Light & Peace Museum Catalogue and the Al-Andalus: History and Civilization Exhibition Catalogue, further enriching its collection of publications that document and celebrate Islamic heritage, architecture, and culture.

Preserving Islamic Cultural Heritage

In 2024, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre continued its efforts in the 1446H Hijri Calendar Project, ensuring its accuracy based on scientific, religious, and astronomical principles. The Centre enriched the 1446H Hijri Calendar with comprehensive and integrated content, including the wall-mounted ‘Roznamah’ calendar and the newly introduced desk edition.

The Centre also released an updated version of the ‘Hijri Calendar’ video series, presenting it in a fresh format. Additionally, the Centre enhanced the interactive smart application for the 1446H Hijri Calendar, making it accessible across all cities and regions in the UAE.

To further expand accessibility, the Centre launched the ‘Interactive Roznamah’, allowing users to explore detailed content of the wall-mounted calendar and track prayer times effortlessly throughout the year.

Leading Global Rankings

As a result of its diverse initiatives and projects, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque has secured a top global ranking among the world’s premier cultural and historical landmarks. The mosque was ranked among the top 1% of tourist attractions worldwide and earned the title of the Middle East’s top cultural and historical attraction, according to TripAdvisor, the globally recognized travel and tourism platform.