Your First Visit to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Tips & Etiquette
Few landmarks in the UAE inspire as much awe and quiet reverence as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi. With its white marble domes, intricate mosaics and soaring columns inlaid with gold, the mosque is not only a place of worship, but a symbol of cultural harmony and architectural brilliance. It’s one of the most visited sites in the country, and for good reason.
If you’re planning your first visit, this guide will help you navigate the experience respectfully and smoothly, from what to wear to the best time to go.
Where is the Mosque Located?
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is located in Abu Dhabi, just off Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Street (Airport Road). If you’re coming from Dubai, expect a 90-minute drive depending on traffic. There’s ample free parking and a visitor centre with cafes, toilets and a small gift shop.
For those using public transport, there are direct buses from Abu Dhabi city centre and airport connections. Taxis are widely available, and the mosque is well signposted throughout the city.
Entry Is Free – But Register Ahead
There is no admission fee to enter the mosque. However, visitors are now required to register online in advance via the official Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre website. Walk-ins may be accommodated during off-peak hours, but it’s strongly advised to secure your entry time in advance, especially during weekends, public holidays and peak tourism months (October to April).
Online registration takes just a few minutes and allows you to choose your preferred time slot.
Dress Code: What to Wear
Modest attire is required, this is one of the most strictly enforced dress codes in the country. Here’s a breakdown:
For women:
- Long-sleeved tops (no sheer or tight clothing)
- Long trousers or skirts that fully cover the legs
- Hair must be covered with a scarf
- Shoes must be removed before entering prayer halls
If you’re not properly dressed, the mosque provides abayas and headscarves at the entrance free of charge. You’ll be directed to a private area to change.
For men:
- No shorts or sleeveless tops
- Trousers and t-shirts with sleeves are acceptable
- Avoid offensive slogans or images on clothing
Plan your outfit in advance to avoid delays and ensure a respectful visit.
Best Time to Visit
The mosque is open daily, except Friday mornings when it is closed to tourists for Jumu’ah (Friday prayers). Non-Muslim visitors can enter:
- Saturday to Thursday: 9am to 10pm
- Friday: 3pm to 10pm
For the most tranquil experience, visit early in the morning just after opening, or around sunset when the golden light reflects off the white marble – a favourite time for photographers. After dark, the mosque lights up with a soft glow, creating a magical atmosphere perfect for evening strolls or post-dinner visits.
Take a Guided Tour
Free guided tours are offered multiple times a day in English and Arabic. These tours last about 45 minutes and give valuable insight into the mosque’s construction, symbolism and Islamic culture. You’ll learn about the 82 domes, the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet, and the stunning Swarovski crystal chandeliers.
If you’re keen on architecture, history or cultural context, the guided tour is worth joining, and it’s included in your free entry. Check the daily schedule online or at the welcome desk.
What You’ll See Inside
The mosque’s layout encourages slow exploration. Start at the main courtyard, surrounded by reflective pools that mirror the domes and minarets. Step into the main prayer hall to see the massive chandelier, intricate ceiling work and the enormous carpet woven by 1,200 artisans.
Take time to appreciate the floral marble inlays, Quranic calligraphy and geometric patterns that celebrate Islamic art. There’s no rush – security is present but unobtrusive, and visitors are encouraged to move respectfully at their own pace.
Tips for Photography
Photography is allowed throughout most of the mosque, including the outer courtyards, archways and domes. Tripods and selfie sticks may be restricted depending on the crowd size, so bring a portable camera or phone with a wide-angle lens.
Respectful photography is encouraged. Don’t take pictures of worshippers without consent, and avoid dramatic poses or outfit-focused shots. This is a sacred space, not a photoshoot backdrop.
General Etiquette and Behaviour
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is first and foremost a place of worship. Even if you’re visiting as a tourist, it’s important to observe a few core rules:
- Keep your voice low at all times.
- Avoid displays of affection such as hugging or hand-holding.
- Do not eat, drink or chew gum inside the mosque.
- Follow directional signs and stick to the designated visitor routes.
- Remove your shoes before entering the carpeted prayer halls.
- Do not sit or lean against any religious inscriptions or decorative elements.
Ushers and cultural volunteers are positioned throughout the mosque to answer questions and provide guidance.
What Else Is Nearby?
If you have time after your visit, consider exploring more of Abu Dhabi’s cultural landmarks:
- Qasr Al Watan (Presidential Palace)
- Louvre Abu Dhabi
- Mangrove kayaking at Jubail Island
- Umm Al Emarat Park
There are also excellent cafés and restaurants within a short drive, especially around Al Bateen and Al Qana districts. For more dining recommendations in the area, check out our Guide UAE.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a difference between tourist and worshipper entry?
Yes. Worshippers use a separate entrance and are not required to register. Tourists, however, must use the designated visitor entrance and register online before arrival. Worship areas are generally accessible to all, but non-Muslim guests must follow signs and avoid entering sections reserved for prayer during active services. Staff on-site are friendly and helpful if you’re unsure about where to go. If you’re visiting during one of the prayer times, be mindful and pause your tour to avoid disturbing worship.
Can children visit the mosque?
Yes, children of all ages are welcome to visit, provided they are accompanied by a responsible adult and remain respectful of the space. That means no running, shouting or disruptive behaviour, even in the open courtyards. There are wide paths, stroller-friendly access points, and plenty of shaded walkways, making it manageable for families. For older children, the visit can be a great cultural learning experience, especially if you join one of the free guided tours. Some exhibitions include interactive screens that are engaging for young visitors.
Are there food and drink options on-site?
While eating and drinking are not permitted inside the mosque, there is a visitor centre with cafés located at the entrance. You can grab coffee, snacks or full meals before or after your visit. Drinking water stations are also available outside the prayer halls. During Ramadan, food and drink restrictions may extend beyond regular hours, so be sure to check updated visitor guidelines during that period. If you’re planning to visit during lunchtime or just after sunset, the café area is a convenient place to regroup and recharge.
Do I have to be Muslim to visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque?
No, the mosque welcomes people of all faiths and nationalities. In fact, it was designed as a space for cultural exchange and spiritual openness. Visitors of all backgrounds are invited to learn more about Islamic architecture, values and traditions. That said, it’s important to enter with respect, humility and an open mind. Avoid loud conversations, wear appropriate attire, and follow the rules just as you would in any sacred space anywhere in the world. If you’re curious, the cultural staff on-site are happy to answer questions and explain more about Islamic customs.
What’s the best time of day to visit for photos or quiet moments?
If you’re aiming for peaceful surroundings and dramatic lighting, plan to arrive right after opening (around 9am) or just before sunset. The early morning light casts soft shadows and gives the white marble a crisp, clean glow. Sunset brings warm golden tones that are especially beautiful when reflected in the pools. At night, the mosque glows under an impressive lighting system that reflects the phases of the moon, a thoughtful architectural touch worth experiencing. These times also tend to be less crowded, especially on weekdays.
