Zayed mosque to allow guided tours

Abu Dhabi: Non-Muslims are being encouraged to visit Shaikh Zayed Mosque, one of the largest in the world and an architectural wonder.

The Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA) is to begin scheduled guided tours of the mosque to promote greater cross-cultural religious and heritage understanding, it was announced yesterday.

"Four tours will be held on February 21 as part of Abu Dhabi's celebration of International Tourist Guide Day. From the beginning of next month, daily tours will be conducted from Saturday to Thursday," said Nasser Saif Al Reyami, director of ADTA's Licensing and Classification Division.

He said the mosque tours will allow residents and tourists alike to experience this inspiring addition to Islamic architecture and to receive an insight into Islam and Abu Dhabi's heritage from trained and certified national tourist guides,"

"The introduction of mosque tours reflects Shaikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan's internationally recognised unifying influence - a legacy which is being upheld today by the Abu Dhabi Government. The tours also demonstrate Abu Dhabi's inclusive approach to becoming a global tourism destination with true universal appeal," said Al Reyami.

Set to become a signature building for the UAE capital, the impressive mosque is clearly visible from main approach roads into Abu Dhabi city.

"It stands as a symbol of the warm hospitality and traditions of Abu Dhabi and subtly informs travellers of this message as they approach the capital. The role of the mosque embodies the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, Arabic and Islamic traditions," Al Reyami said.

One of the world's largest mosques, covering 22,412 square metres, this landmark architectural statement on the UAE capital's evolving landscape, combines traditional Islamic designs and modern architectural techniques.

Abu Dhabi's universal approach has also extended to the building of the mosque with craftsmen from all corners of the world commissioned to build it with the finest of construction and interiors materials.

Dress code: Modest clothes

The Shaikh Zayed Mosque guided tours, which take between 60 and 90 minutes, will begin at 10am, Saturday to Thursday - registered visitors are asked to be at the mosque 15 minutes before the tours start.

Visitors need to book the complimentary tours by emailing zayedmosquetour@adta.ae. Visitors will be allowed to take photographs.

As a mark of respect to a place of prayer and contemplation, visitors must wear modest, conservative loose fitting clothing with women covering their heads. Long sleeves are necessary and shorts or short skirts will not be acceptable. As footwear has to be removed before entering the mosque, slip-off shoes are recommended.

Highlights

It is the largest of its kind in the world according to Turkey's Research Centre for Islamic History and Culture.

Have you visited the Zayed Mosque? How was the experience? Would you recommend others to take the guided tour?

I came in this country in the year of 1995. Before coming in this country I saw a calendar in my country "Mosques of UAE". Among that Jumeirah Mosque one of the mosque. After coming in Dubai when I saw that mosque I really surprised. Moreover I was very glad to know that non-muslims are also allowed to visit the mosque. Last Friday also I prayed there with some new-comers. Since many years I have been visiting Abu Dhabi. Whenever I went to AD, I saw that Shaikh Zayed mosque's construction work was going on. I became very much glad to know that this mosque's contruction work is over and this mosque also having facility to enter inside the mosque by non-muslim. This is an oportunity to explain our culture and religion to a non-muslim.
Anwarul
Dubai,UAE
Posted: February 20, 2008, 19:55

Horay to the Shaikh on such hospitality. This is indeed a good deed because everyone should be aware of the monuments and the respect this deserves.
Jaya.
Umm-Al-Quwain,UAE
Posted: February 20, 2008, 17:29

Peace be upon the late Shaikh Zayed for this unprecedented accomplishment. And may peace be upon those fortunate to walk in around this piece of stunning architecture. Finally, may peace be upon us all as we continue to bridge the gap between western and east --- the gap his Highness was so keen to close.
Rashid
Abu Dhabi,UAE
Posted: February 20, 2008, 17:29

I will look forward to being able to visit the mosque after watching it being built over the years. It will be a wonderful place to take my visitors from the UK
Sue
Dubai,UAE
Posted: February 20, 2008, 17:13

I think this is a great idea. I can't wait to book a tour.
Precious
Sharjah,UAE
Posted: February 20, 2008, 16:59

Unbelievable and I never thought we will get like this chance to visit the mosque. This decision will bring more lights to this country. Rulers give a memorable gift to rest of the world. Thanks.
Rajagopal
Kerala,India
Posted: February 20, 2008, 16:35

This is in response to Farhana's comment. If you have lived in Dubai your entire life, surely you must know that non-muslims are welcome at a the Jumeirah mosque.
Muna
Abu Dhabi,UAE
Posted: February 20, 2008, 16:12

I visited, It's a wonder, like the Taj Mahal of UAE, if you have time kindly go and see this wonder.
Afsal
Abu Dhabi,UAE
Posted: February 20, 2008, 14:33

I appreciate very much that we get the opportunity to visit this exceptional mosque and we will come with a group of friends from Germany to visit the mosque next week.
Hermann
Dubai,UAE
Posted: February 20, 2008, 14:22

I have visited the Zayed Mosque, once at night and once for Jumua'h prayers. It was definitely an experience. The architecture is beautiful and the spread of the mosque is amazing. It is a definite must see for all, Muslims and non-Muslims alike. May Allah bless the late Shaikh Zayed for his great initiative.
Rafeeda
Dubai,UAE
Posted: February 20, 2008, 12:09

Thanks for the Rulers who took efforts to complete this wonder as a symbol of Islamic culture. I believe Islam always welcomes everybody to understand its culture and tradition by respect. The move to allow visitors to this mosque is appreciated.
Shafi
Abu Dhabi,UAE
Posted: February 20, 2008, 09:28

This mosque is a great way to promote UAE culture. It bears the name of Shaikh Zayed, a wise leader the world will never forget.
Sam
Abu Dhabi,UAE
Posted: February 20, 2008, 08:06

It is important for non-Muslims to be allowed in the mosques in order for them to get an insight of Islam. I have lived in Dubai my entire life, but it always made me sad to see that non-Muslims were not allowed in the mosques. Hope to see the mosque when I visit Dubai again.
Farzana
Oakville,Canada
Posted: February 20, 2008, 08:00