News

31% Increase from the First Half of Last Year Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre in Abu Dhabi Welcomes Over 4.37 Million Worshippers and Visitors in the First Half of 2024

More than 2,958 cultural tours conveyed the message and culture of the United Arab Emirates, embodying peace and coexistence with various cultures worldwide.

 

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre in Abu Dhabi received 4,379,258 worshippers and visitors in the first half of this year, a 31% increase compared to the same period last year. This number included 1,765,698 worshippers and fasting individuals and 2,584,425 visitors, while the number of users of the jogging track reached 29,135.

Details of Worshipper Numbers:

The number of worshippers who attended Friday prayers at the mosque reached 149,666, with 348,573 performing daily prayers and 617,458 worshippers attending prayers during Ramadan and the two Eids. On the 27th of Ramadan, 1445 AH (5th of April), the mosque saw the highest number of worshippers in its history, with 87,186 attending, including 70,680 who observed the 27th night of Ramadan.

As part of the "Our Fasting Guests" project, the Centre prepared 2,150,000 iftar meals, 650,001 of which were served within the mosque and 1.5 million meals distributed to labor cities in Abu Dhabi. Additionally, 30,000 suhoor meals were distributed during the last ten days of Ramadan.

81% of Visitors from Outside the Country:

The Centre strengthened its position on the global cultural tourism map, with 81% of visitors coming from outside the UAE and 19% being residents. Asia topped the list of visitors by continent at 52%, followed by Europe at 34%, North America at 7%, Africa and South America at 3% each, and Australia at 1%.

Visitor Country Rankings:

India ranked first with 22% of total visitors, followed by China at 11%, Russia at 8%, Germany and the USA at 4% each, France, Italy, the UK, and Pakistan at 3% each, and the Philippines at 2%. The second day of Eid Al-Fitr saw the highest number of visitors, with 32,722.

 

Cultural Tours:

The cultural tour specialists at the Centre conducted 2,958 tours attended by 41,957 visitors from around the world. The first half of the year saw 823 bookings for official delegations, with 13,655 participants. The mosque welcomed 170 high-level delegations, including visits from 3 heads of state, one vice president, 4 prime ministers, 2 parliamentary speakers, and 35 ministers.

All participants in the cultural tours were introduced to the mosque's message of tolerance and cultural communication, the unique Islamic architecture, and the world-class experiences and services offered.

The Centre has introduced several experiences that contributed to the increase in visitors, such as the "Unseen Glimpse of the Mosque" tours, which offer cultural tours in club cars showcasing exclusive details of the mosque. The night cultural tours (Sura) for visitors, available outside official working hours, were designed to allow visitors to the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and the country, especially those on transit flights, to visit the mosque. Visitors also benefit from the "El-Delleel" service, a multimedia device offering virtual cultural tours in 14 global languages, enabling 24-hour mosque visits. Additionally, "Souq Al-Jami’" provides a diverse experience with over 50 commercial units, including restaurants, shops, kiosks, and entertainment areas, catering to the needs of family members of all ages. Children can enjoy activities at Fun Block and the Kingdom Martial Arts Academy. More information is available at www.souqaljami.ae.

Advanced Global Rankings:

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque has been recognized as one of the top cultural and historical landmarks globally as a result of its various initiatives and projects. According to a report by TripAdvisor, the mosque has achieved high rankings in several categories. In the "Top Attractions" category, it was ranked first in the Middle East. In the "Top Experiences" category, it secured the second position in the Middle East for the "Dubai to Abu Dhabi Tour" experience, which includes visits to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Qasr Al Watan, and Etihad Towers. Additionally, in the "Cultural and Historical Experiences" category, the mosque was ranked third globally.

President of Chile Visits Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi

The President of the Republic of Chile, Gabriel Boric Font, visited the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi accompanied by Her Excellency Reem Al Hashemi, Minister of State for International Cooperation, His Excellency Mohammed Saeed Al Neyadi, UAE Ambassador to Chile, several senior Chilean officials, and the accompanying delegation, as part of his official trip to the UAE.

President Boric and his delegation began their visit by paying respects at the mausoleum of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, reflecting on the qualities and wise approach of the Founding Father, which have enriched the culture of tolerance and peaceful coexistence among nations worldwide.

During their visit, President Boric and his delegation toured the halls and external corridors of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, accompanied by His Excellency Dr. Yousif Al Obaidli, Director-General of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre, and were briefed on the mosque's message of coexistence, tolerance, and openness to others, all of which are rooted in the principles and values established by the UAE’s founding father.

They also learned about the significant role played by the Centre in promoting a tolerant Islamic culture and enhancing cultural communication between different cultures and peoples worldwide, further exploring the history of the grand structure, its aesthetic grandeur, and the exquisite art of Islamic architecture displayed in all its aspects.

At the end of the visit, the guest was presented with a gift that encapsulates the mosque's beauty: floral mosaic designs of the exterior columns, a compass inspired by the mosque's chandeliers, and a copy of "Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Lights of Peace." This publication from the Centre offers a photographic journey through the mosque's architectural splendor, featuring award-winning images from the "Spaces of Light" Photography Award and highlighting the mosque's unique architectural artistry.

First Lady of the Philippines visits Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Louise Araneta-Marcos, First Lady of the Philippines, visited the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi.

The First Lady of the Philippines was accompanied by Alfonso Ferdinand, Ambassador of the Philippines to the UAE, and Mohamed Obaid Alqataam Alzaabi, UAE Ambassador to the Philippines, alongside Dr. Yousef Al Obaidli, Director-General of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre in Abu Dhabi,

During the tour, the delegation were briefed about the mosque’s noble message that highlights values of coexistence, tolerance, and openness to other cultures, inspired by the late Founding Father Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan's rich legacy. They also learned about the mosque’s leading role in highlighting the Islamic culture’s true essence and promoting cross-cultural communication worldwide.

At the end of the visit, the guest was presented with two of the Centre’s distinctive publications. The first titled “Spaces of Light,” showcasing the winning photographs in the “Spaces of Light” photography award, annually organised by the Centre in celebration of the scenic aesthetics and visual culture of the mosque, and another copy of a book titled “Houses of God” about places of worship in the Islamic history

President of North Macedonia visits Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

During his official visit to the UAE, Stevo Pendarovski, President of the Republic of North Macedonia, visited the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Accompanied by his delegation, the President started the tour by paying homage to the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan at his mausoleum, where they praised his vision, leadership, and values that promoted tolerance, coexistence, and peace among nations worldwide.

Next, the delegation proceeded to explore the iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, known for its stunning architecture and design. They were also given insights into the mosque's history and the rich Islamic culture and heritage of the UAE.

The visit concluded with the presentation of several unique publications of the Centre, including "Spaces of Light" and "Houses of God," to President Pendarovski.

President of Paraguay Visits Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

H.H. Mario Abdo Benitez, President of the Republic of Paraguay ,and the first lady Silvana López Moreira visited Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, as part of his official visit to the UAE. They were accompanied by H.E. Saeed Abdullah Al Qamzi, Non-Resident Ambassador and Extraordinary Plenipotentiary of the UAE to Paraguay, and the accompanying delegation.

The Paraguayan President and accompanying delegation commenced the tour by visiting the mausoleum of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, recalling his fine qualities and wise approach that established the culture of tolerance, coexistence, and peace among various nations worldwide.

The President and accompanying delegation toured of the mosque's halls and external corridors, and they were briefed about Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque's noble message that promotes the practice of tolerance, and openness to the world's nations. They also learned about the mosque's history, collection, and aesthetic features of Islamic art and architecture that manifest in every corner of this grand edifice.

At the end of the visit, the guest was presented with two of the Centre’s distinctive publications. The first titled “Spaces of Light” showcasing the winning photographs in the “Spaces of Light” photography award, annually organized by the Centre in celebration of the scenic aesthetics and visual culture of the mosque, and another copy of a book titled “Houses of God” about places of worship in the Islamic history, including the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, as well as  a book titled  "Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: A Visual Journey", which through a rich visual journey narrates  the  details of Islamic art and architecture that manifest at the mosque.

Speaker Of Turkmen Upper House Of Parliament Visits Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

H.H. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow, Speaker of Turkmenistan’s Upper House of Parliament “Father of The Nation” , visited  Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque as part of his official visit to the UAE.

He was accompanied by H.E. Ahmed Al Hay Al Hameli, UAE Ambassador to the Republic of Turkmenistan, and H.E. Dr. Mohammed Saeed Al Ariqi, UAE Ambassador to Kazakhstan, and his accompanying delegation.

His Highness and accompanying delegation commenced the tour by visiting the mausoleum of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, recalling his fine qualities and wise approach that established the culture of tolerance, coexistence, and peace among various nations worldwide.

During the visit H.E. Dr. Yousif Al Obaidli, Director General of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre, accompanied His Highness on a tour of the mosque's halls and external corridors, and they were briefed about Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque's noble message that promotes the practice of tolerance, and openness to the world's nations. They also learned about the mosque's history, collection, and aesthetic features of Islamic art and architecture that manifest in every corner of this grand edifice.

At the end of the visit, he was presented with one of the Centre's distinctive publications titled "Houses of God" about places of worship in Islamic history, including the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre welcomes Pink Caravan Ride

In line with its leading role in serving the community, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre will host the Pink Caravan Ride in its eleventh session at its premises in Abu Dhabi on Friday, February 10th, 2023.

The Pink Caravan is a Pan UAE breast cancer initiative that falls under the Friends of Cancer Patients' umbrella for early cancer detection and aims to raise awareness around breast cancer early detection and screening methods.

The Centre allocated an area to accommodate the Pink Caravan mobile clinic at the Mosque that will provide free medical checkups for citizens, residents, and visitors in the capital city ,and it invites them  to visit the Mosque, participate in this event, benefit from free checkups, and learn about ways to prevent breast cancer and detect it early.

Amal Mohamed Bamatraf, ,Director of Cultural Communication Department at Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre, highlighted the Center's keenness to endorse such creative initiatives that seek  to enhance the happiness of the UAE's unique and diverse community, which keep pace with the strategic objectives the Mosque aspires to reach, which is to become a model for places of worship worldwide, in particular through the services it provides to the community, she also stated that: "First, I would like to thank " Friends of Cancer Patients" Association for its efforts and initiatives that depict the nobility , generosity ,and goodwill of the Emirati society; as the Center's support for this initiative is out of its belief in the significance of such initiatives and their active role in raising awareness among community members and promoting a healthy lifestyle. Hosting such philanthropic initiatives at the Mosque embodies the Centre's vision that is inspired by the Islamic culture and the noble humanistic values consolidated by the late founding father Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan which our wise leadership pursue and add wisdom to. "

She also added: "The Centre invites the  capital Abu Dhabi's residents and visitors to visit the mosque next Friday, to meet with a group of breast cancer specialists , and listen to their advice about this disease, related examinations and practices, and to conduct a free checkup that uses latest technologies and equipment ."

Speaker of the Bahraini Council of Representatives visits Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

H.E. Mr. Ahmad Al Musallam, Speaker of the Council of Representatives of the Kingdom of Bahrain, visited Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. He was accompanied by H.E. Suhail Al-Afari, a Member of the Federal National Council, and the accompanying delegation as part of his official visit to the UAE.

During the visit H.E. Dr.Yousif Alobaidli, the Director General of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre accompanied them on a tour of the mosque’s facilities and briefed them about the Visitor Center and the integrated and varied system of services provided to worshipers and visitors from different cultures of the world. They also learned about the unique experience launched by the Center called “Tolerance Path”, which allows worshippers and visitors from all walks of life to embark on an exceptional journey as they explore a pictorial narrative divided into three sections that depict the mosque’s pioneering achievements in the field of coexistence, tolerance, and establishing channels of cross-cultural communication with different cultures of the world.

The Speaker and the accompanying delegation later toured the mosque’s halls and external corridors and were briefed by one of the Center’s cultural tour specialists about Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque’s noble message that underscores notions of coexistence, tolerance, and openness to the cultures, emanating from the nation’s late founder’s rich legacy. 

They learned about the mosque’s leading role in highlighting the true essence of Islamic culture and promoting cross-cultural communication worldwide.

While they were also briefed about the mosque’s history, components, and aesthetic features of Islamic art and architecture that manifest in every corner of this grand edifice, which create a mesmerizing fusion of various architectural styles from different eras reflecting commonalities amongst cultures and uniting the world through art.

At the end of the visit, the guest was presented with one of the Centre’s distinctive publications titled “Spaces of Light,” showcasing the winning photographs in the Spaces of Light photography award, annually organized by the Centre in celebration of the scenic aesthetics and visual culture of the mosque.

President of Palau visits Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

President of Palau, Surangel S. Whipps Jr. has visited the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, as part of his visit to the UAE, along with his accompanying delegation.

Surangel S. Whipps Jr. and his accompanying delegation began their tour with a visit to the final resting place of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, wishing Allah Almighty to grant him eternal peace.

Dr. Yousif Al Obaidli, Director-General of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre, accompanied the president of Palau on a tour of the mosque's halls and external corridors, during which they were briefed about Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque's noble message that promotes the practice of tolerance, and openness to the world's nations, following in the footsteps of the UAE's Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed.

They also learned about the mosque's history, its collection and aesthetic features of Islamic art and architecture that manifest in every corner of this grand edifice.

At the end of the visit, he was presented with two of the centre's distinctive publications. The first is titled "Spaces of Light," showcasing the winning photographs in the "Spaces of Light" photography award, annually organised by the centre to celebrate the mosque's scenic aesthetics and visual culture. The other is a copy of a book titled "Houses of God" about places of worship in Islamic history, including the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

Korean President visits Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Yoon Suk Yeol, President of The Republic of Korea, accompanied by First Lady Kim Keon Hee, today visited the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (SZGM).

He was accompanied by Suhail bin Mohammed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure; Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi, Minister of Culture and Youth; Abdulla Al Nuaimi, Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to the Republic of Korea, and a number of top officials in Korea, as part of his official visit to the country.

The Korean President and his accompanying delegation began their tour with a visit to the final resting place of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and recalled the Founding Father’s qualities and wise approach that enriched the culture of tolerance and peaceful coexistence among various nations of the world.

Later, Dr. Yousif Al Obaidli, Director-General of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre (SZGMC) accompanied them on a tour of the mosque’s halls and external corridors.

During the tour, they were briefed about the mosque’s noble message that highlights notions of coexistence, tolerance, and openness to other cultures, inspired by the nation’s late founder’s rich legacy, and about the mosque’s leading role in highlighting the Islamic culture’s true essence and promoting cross-cultural communication worldwide.

At the end of the visit, the guest was presented with two of the Centre’s distinctive publications.

The first titled “Spaces of Light,” showcasing the winning photographs in the “Spaces of Light” photography award, annually organised by the Centre in celebration of the scenic aesthetics and visual culture of the mosque, and another copy of a book titled “Houses of God” about places of worship in the Islamic history