Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Last updated 2026-10-29
By Global Travel Guide Editorial Team
Introduction
The mosque has 82 white marble domes, more than 1,000 columns and a vast hand-knotted carpet; the chandeliers are German-made. Free guided tours run several times a day, and the building is lit dramatically after sunset. Visitors must cover shoulders, knees and hair; abayas are available at the entrance. It is about 20 to 30 minutes by taxi from central Abu Dhabi, with no metro station. Friday opening hours are split around prayers.
Ticket Price
Free entry, including guided tours; no ticket is required. Dress modestly (women cover hair, shoulders and knees; abayas are lent on site) and avoid prayer times for visits.
Opening Hours
Sat-Thu 9:00-20:30; Fri 9:00-11:30 and 14:30-20:30; last entry 30 minutes before closing.
Transportation
No metro station at the mosque; take a taxi or bus from central Abu Dhabi (about 20-30 minutes), or drive and use the free car park.
Best Season
In United Arab Emirates, Nov-Mar is comfortably cool; May-Sep is extremely hot. Religious sites are most comfortable in the cooler dry months; dress modestly.
Pro Tip: Dress appropriately before arrival
Local Tips You'd Only Learn After Visiting
The details official guides skip — save time, avoid crowds, and get better photos.
1
Dress appropriately before arrival Women should cover hair, shoulders and knees; men should cover shoulders and legs. Abayas are available at the entrance, but arriving dressed appropriately saves time.
Member-Only Tips
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Frequently Asked Questions4 questions
Yes, non-Muslims can visit on guided tours outside prayer times; dress modestly and follow the visitor route.
Saturday-Thursday 9:00-20:30; Friday 9:00-11:30 and 14:30-20:30. Last entry is 30 minutes before closing.
Women must cover the head, arms and legs; men must cover shoulders and knees. Abayas are available free at the entrance.
There is no metro station at the mosque; take a taxi or bus from central Abu Dhabi (about 20-30 minutes), or drive and use the free car park.