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Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre Unveils Light & Peace Museum at the 'Dome of Peace' – A New Cultural Destination for the Emirate and the UAE
Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Deputy Prime Minister, Chairman of Presidential Affairs, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre has announced the opening of the Light & Peace Museum to the public on Wednesday, 18 December 2024.
Aligning with the Nation's Cultural Movement
On this occasion, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre held a press conference in which His Excellency Dr. Yousef Abdullah Al Obaidli shared the vision behind the Light & Peace Museum. He remarked:"The Light & Peace Museum is inspired by the UAE’s vision and the leadership's commitment to enriching the cultural landscape of the country. It aims to revive the treasures of Islamic civilization, showcasing its diversity and richness, reflecting epochs of profound intellectual depth in sciences, craftsmanship, and creativity in arts and literature."
Dr. Yousef Al Obaidli further emphasized that the Light & Peace Museum not only reflects the UAE's dedication to promoting the sciences and arts but also serves as a vital expression of the nation’s values in intercultural communication. He noted that the museum’s mission aligns with the UAE’s efforts to foster peace, mutual respect, and tolerance. It embodies the essence of Islamic culture through its focus on unity, rapprochement, and moderation.
The museum's design strategically blends an exceptional atmosphere with innovative display techniques to create a unique visitor experience. By offering a curated selection of artifacts and exhibits, the museum spans five distinct cultural fields, encompassing historical, artistic, scientific, and literary treasures. This immersive approach engages visitors through narratives that reflect the rich heritage of Islamic civilization and beyond.
The objective is to transform each visit into a journey of discovery and dialogue, enriching the cultural experience for people from all over the world. This initiative aligns with the Centre’s mission to position the mosque as a hub for cultural exchange and understanding. Additionally, it supports the UAE's longstanding commitment to fostering cultural awareness, heritage preservation, and cross-generational dialogue.
Cultural Content and Messages for Diverse Audiences and Cultures
The Light & Peace Museum targets a broad range of audiences through its diverse cultural content, aiming to engage various cultures and groups, including researchers, specialists, and those passionate about culture, heritage, science, and the arts. Its messages are delivered through interactive and sensory experiences, including a dedicated section for children designed to introduce them to the museum's civilizational message in an engaging and approachable way.
To ensure the museum’s message reaches a wide audience, the museum content is presented in seven languages: Arabic, English, Mandarin, Spanish, French, Russian, and Urdu. This multilingual approach is supported by technology that allows visitors to activate the language of their choice on the digital screens accompanying the cultural exhibits. The selection of these languages was based on a study conducted by the Centre, which identified the most frequent nationalities visiting the mosque.
Five Sections Offering Captivating Narratives and Diverse Experiences
During the press conference, the museum's sections were highlighted, each presenting unique narratives and experiences. The first section, Tolerance – A Guiding Light, communicates messages of tolerance and coexistence in the UAE, deeply rooted in the land since humans first inhabited it thousands of years ago. This tradition was further solidified by the vision and wisdom of the late founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan .
The second section, "Sanctity and Worship –The Three Grand Mosques", provides visitors with an in-depth understanding of the three most sacred mosques in the Islamic world: the Masjid al-Haram, the Prophet's Mosque, and Al-Aqsa Mosque. It also explores the spiritual and architectural inspirations drawn from these mosques that are reflected in the design of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
The third section, "Precision and Beauty – The Spirit of Invention", focuses on the rich scientific and cultural contributions of Islamic civilization throughout the ages. It highlights the artistic and intellectual accomplishments that shaped the Islamic world, emphasizing the continuous pursuit of knowledge and beauty.
These sections, along with the museum's overall design, promise an immersive and enriching experience for visitors, encouraging reflection on the values of peace, creativity, and cultural exchange.
Before reaching the fourth section, visitors pass through the Family Section, which offers a unique opportunity for families to explore stories together in an engaging and interactive atmosphere designed to captivate children. Through sensory experiences, this section covers topics such as the construction of the mosque, geometric shapes, and the use of the astrolabe, among others.
The fourth section, "Tolerance and Openness – Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque", features a model of the mosque at the heart of the museum, symbolizing the values of peace, tolerance, and diversity that Islam advocates. Above the model, a chandelier inspired by the mosque’s own chandelier – one of its most iconic aesthetic features – adds to the exhibit’s allure. This section includes several interactive stations that allow visitors to explore the mosque's details, its story of inception, its architectural beauty, and the exquisite Islamic architectural artistry evident in every corner. Additionally, this section provides insights into the Centre's team and their roles in bringing the mosque's mission and cultural vision to life.
The Family Section of the museum serves as a vibrant space for families to discover the museum's stories together in an interactive and child-friendly environment. It provides engaging sensory experiences that delve into topics like the mosque's construction, geometric shapes, and the use of the astrolabe, offering an enriching learning opportunity for all ages.
The final section of the museum is titled "Universal Coexistence". This section draws inspiration from the aesthetic elements of the mosque, particularly the intricate floral designs derived from various parts of the world, which symbolize unity and coexistence. The section offers an engaging and interactive experience that allows visitors to connect their geographical region with the values and artistry of the mosque. This immersive experience emphasizes the universal themes of peace and cultural harmony reflected in the mosque's design.
Cultural and Historical Content Reflecting Depth and Richness
The Light & Peace Museum showcases a remarkable collection of carefully selected artifacts, each representing significant milestones in Islamic history and culture. Among the highlights are a piece of the Holy Kaaba’s belt from the 20th century, the Dinar of Abd al-Malik ibn Marwan, which is the first Islamic gold coin dating back to 77 AH, and Kitab al-Tamhid by Ibn Abd al-Barr, a 1296 CE work on the exegesis of Imam Malik's Al-Muwatta. Other significant pieces include gold-illuminated manuscript pages from the Blue Quran, dating back to the 9th-10th century CE, Akhbar Makkah wa Ma Jaa Fiha Min al-Athar from the 14th century, and an Andalusian astrolabe from the same period. The museum also features personal items of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, alongside a diverse range of artistic and scientific works, such as medical manuscripts, decorative arts, calligraphy, and textiles. These treasures span centuries and offer a profound insight into the depth and richness of Islamic heritage, blending historical legacies with contemporary artistic expressions.
The "Dome of Peace" is a new cultural destination enriching the cultural landscape of the emirate and the UAE.
The "Dome of Peace" serves as a cultural beacon, enhancing the vibrant heritage landscape of the emirate and the UAE. This distinguished venue hosts a range of cultural and educational experiences aimed at deepening the understanding of Islamic civilization and its artistic, scientific, and literary contributions. The Dome features Al Jami' Library, dedicated to the study of Islamic heritage, and a theatre that accommodates religious, national, and community events. The Noor & Salam Museum highlights the essence of Islamic culture, promoting messages of peace and coexistence. Additionally, the immersive Diya – A Universe of Light experience offers a captivating, 360-degree sensory journey for visitors.
The Dome of Peace also showcases temporary exhibitions that reflect its commitment to cultural dialogue and heritage preservation. These exhibitions have explored themes such as the historical evolution of the Hajj pilgrimage, the history of Islamic coinage, and the rich legacy of Andalusian civilization, including its literature, key figures, and artistic achievements. Through these offerings, the Dome of Peace reinforces the role of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre as a platform for tolerance, cultural awareness, and intellectual exchange, enriching the experience of visitors from around the world.
The Immersive “Diya – A Universe of Light” experience: Unique Addition to the Centre's Cultural Experiences
The immersive "Diya – A Universe of Light" experience at the Centre is designed using over 1.5 billion light units. It guides visitors through a captivating journey across lush oases, towering mountains, serene coastlines, and golden deserts—reflecting the rich identity of the UAE. The experience culminates at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, showcasing the architectural beauty, towering minarets, and grand domes, which are symbolic of the nation's core values of tolerance and cultural unity. This experience brings to life the legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, embodying peace and coexistence at the heart of the UAE's identity.Bottom of Form
Fruitful Collaboration and Integrated Efforts
The Centre’s commitment to enriching the museum's cultural content has been significantly supported by fruitful collaborations with prominent figures and institutions. Key contributions have come from His Excellency Abdul Rahman bin Mohammed Al Owais, His Excellency Mohammed Al Mar, and the Al Sabah Archaeological Group - Dar Al-Athar in Kuwait. These collaborations have been instrumental in providing valuable loans and donations of artifacts with both historical and cultural importance.
Additionally, the Centre has received assistance from several esteemed institutions, such as the National Archive and Library in Abu Dhabi, the Department of Culture and Tourism in Abu Dhabi, the Ibrahim Family House, the Union Museum, and the Saruq Al-Hadid Archaeological Museum. Such collaborations have helped further develop the museum’s cultural narrative.
The Centre has also partnered with notable local and international artists, including Abdel Qader Al-Rais, Idris Khan, and Osman Khunji who created contemporary pieces inspired by Islamic arts. Other distinguished artists, such as Najat Makki, Layla Juma, and Abdulrahim Sharif, contributed their expertise in Islamic art, enriching the museum’s cultural scope and significance.
New Cultural Publication on Islamic Cultural Heritage
In line with enriching the museum's content and enhancing its cultural collection, the Centre has released the "Light and Peace: A Journey of Faith, Inspiration, and Coexistence" Catalog in both Arabic and English. The book will soon be available for purchase at the "Light and Peace" shop and the Mosque's Library, located next to the museum at the "Dome of Peace" at Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre.
Notably, the name of the museum, "Light and Peace," is inspired by its mission to revive the Islamic cultural heritage of science and art, which has illuminated humanity through successive ages. It also reflects the exhibition's goal of building bridges of understanding between cultures based on peace and tolerance.
For more information about the museum or the "Diya" experience, you can visit the museum's official website at www.szgmc.gov.ae or contact the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre at +971 2 4191919. The museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM, and entry is free for a limited period until the implementation of admission fees.
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Exploring Cultural Experiences at the 'Dome of Peace': Sultan Al Neyadi Visits the 'Light & Peace Museum' and the Diya Immersive Experience at Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre in Abu Dhabi
His Excellency Dr. Sultan bin Saif Al Neyadi, Minister of State for Youth Affairs, visited the “Light & Peace Museum” at Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre in Abu Dhabi, where he was welcomed by His Excellency Dr. Yousef Al Obaidli, Director General of the Centre.
His Excellency toured the five sections of the museum, which feature interactive experiences utilizing the latest technologies. The exhibits showcase rare and unique collections that reflect the museum's message, offering an engaging sensory narrative that allows visitors to interact with its cultural content, promoting a dialogue between cultures.
His Excellency was introduced to the museum’s contents and activities, gaining insights into Islamic civilization and its contributions to the arts and sciences throughout the ages. He also learned about the culture of tolerance and coexistence that has facilitated the mutual influence between it and other world civilizations. Additionally, His Excellency explored the “Immersive Diya – A Universe of Light Experience,” which includes a 360-degree interactive light show enhanced by sound effects and winds.
At the end of the visit, His Excellency was presented with the “Light and Peace” catalog showcasing the museum's collections, which highlight the unique artworks and exhibits reflecting the values of tolerance, peace, and Islamic arts. The catalog provides a detailed description of each piece and emphasizes its cultural and historical significance. He was also presented with a copy of the "Andalusia: History and Civilization" exhibition catalog.
Both the "Light & Peace Museum" and the “Immersive Diya – A Universe of Light Experience” represent a significant addition to the cultural experiences at the Centre, located in the newly established “Dome of Peace,” a cultural destination in Abu Dhabi at Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre. The dome encompasses many cultural facilities, including the Al Jami’ library, which specializes in Islamic civilization and its arts, an auditorium that hosts religious, national, cultural, and community events, and temporary exhibitions. These exhibitions, such as the "Andalusia: History and Civilization" and "Coins of Islam: History Revealed," reflect the cultural values and messages that enhance the role of the mosque in presenting its diverse cultural and human content in an interactive and knowledge-rich framework.
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UK Prime Minister Visits Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi
His Excellency Keir Starmer, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, visited the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, accompanied by His Excellency Mansour Belhoul Al-Falasi, UAE Ambassador to the United Kingdom, His Excellency Edward Hobart, UK Ambassador to the UAE, and the accompanying delegation.
The Prime Minister and his delegation were accompanied by His Excellency 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, Prime Minister Keir Starmer commented: “The UAE and the UK share a long history and a deep relationship that spans centuries. It has been an honor to visit Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, where I have seen the impactful efforts to promote shared human values across religions and cultures, which strengthen the ties between all. People from around the world gather in peace around its beauty, and I have also seen the continued cooperation between the UAE and the UK in this area.”
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: A Lights of Peace, the latest publication from the Center. 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.
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HIGHLIGHTS
ISLAMIC ARCHITECTURE
The complimentary guided cultural tours organized by Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre offer an educational, cultural, and interactive experience, making it one of the most popular cultural activities for all age groups! The standard tour duration is approximately 45 minutes and is delivered in Arabic and English by qualified Cultural Tour Specialists at the Centre.
DOMES
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque includes 82 domes of various sizes. They combine many harmonious forms of Islamic architecture predominantly inspired by the Moroccan and Mogul styles. The largest of which is located at the center of the main prayer hall .it has a diameter of approximately 32.6 meters and a height of 84 meters. The white marble cladding, the onion-shaped 'crowns,' and the crescent-shaped finials decorated with gold-glass mosaic are striking features that distinguish the dome's design. The windows at the bottom of the dome allow natural light to enter the prayer halls. The inside of the domes features traditional Moroccan artwork made of a reinforced plaster called (GRG). It is decorated with verses from the Holy Quran, using different Arabic calligraphy styles such as Naskh, Thuluth, and Kufi. Whereas the 14 glass domes, distributed above the female and male ablution areas, are an essential design element of Islamic gardens in mosques.
The White Marble
The pure white color of the Mosque is one of its most distinctive characteristics, as it's a color synonymous with purity, virtue, and peace, which the late founder of the Mosque, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, was very fond of. More than 165,000 square meters of brilliant SIVEC marble from Macedonia covers the outer surfaces of the domes, the minarets, and the walls, chosen for its virtually flawless quality, and much of the white marble covering the interior of the Mosque comes from Italian quarries. The exterior courtyard (Sahan) is inlaid with hundreds of thousands of different types of mosaic marble pieces from Italy, India, Greece, and China, further bringing cultures around the world together through its aesthetic features and architectural designs..
The Minarets
The minarets of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque are its tallest architectural feature, rising to about 107 meters from the four corners of the courtyard. Their design reflects the diversity and comprehensiveness of the mosque's architectural style inspired by various Islamic architectural designs from different eras. The minarets are composed of several square, octagonal, and circular layers, adorned with distinctive sign features such as balconies, gilded finishes, spiral grids, and abundant cornices. In the past, the minaret performed many historical functions. However, its primary function was to provide a high place for the muezzin ( caller to prayer) to raise the call to prayer. Nowadays, through modern technology, the call to prayer is raised from the minarets of mosques by loudspeakers. It is worth mentioning that the word minaret comes from the Arabic word (manāra), meaning a beacon or a lighthouse, indicative of mosques leading in spreading knowledge and sciences across the Islamic eras.
The Courtyard
The Sahan (courtyard) is an open space ,usually square or rectangular in shape that is often found in larger ‘Grand’ mosque structures and used by worshippers during significant Islamic prayers and large gatherings. The Sahan of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is mainly used during official Eid Al Fitr(The Feast of Breakfast) and Eid Al Adha (The Feast of Sacrifice) prayers and for Taraweeh and Tahajjud prayers during the Holy Month of Ramadan. It spans an area of 17,400 square meters and accommodates up to 31,000 worshippers when full. More than 30 types of marble were used in the design of the Sahan, including Italian, Indian, Greek, and Chinese. Whereas more than 9 million mosaic pieces clad the designs of 3825 panels measuring 2.1 meters by 2.1 meters, of which 2,385 panels were designed with white marble and 1440 panels with colored marble. The intricate flower mosaics decorating the courtyard was designed by the British artist Kevin Dean, who embraced Sheikh Zayed’s passionate vision to create a mosque that unites the world, as he chose flowers from the Middle East, such as Tulips, Lilys, and Irises. As inlays of colored marble form exuberant floral patterns that curl and twist gracefully from the edges towards the center adorn the courtyard. While the rest of the Sahan was inlaid with thousands of small pieces of white marble. The courtyard of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque may well be the largest marble mosaic artwork in the world.
The Columns
More than one thousand columns flank the Mosque's exterior arcades, which is considered one of the striking features of the Mosque. The six-sided columns are clad with white marble slabs and inlaid with semi-precious stones, using a technique called "Pietra doura." The art form first appeared in Italy during the sixteenth century and was used in an adapted form by the seventeenth-century Mughal artisans in the Taj Mahal. The beauty of this meeting of two artistic techniques led to its revival and resurgence. The total number of columns in the exterior area is 1096, and each piece of marble on the columns was individually carved and inlaid here on-site during the final stages of construction. The column design is based on the date palm, and the stylized fronds that form the golden capitals are made of golden anodized aluminum.
The Reflective Pools
The reflective pools that run around the perimeter of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque are a traditional feature of Islamic architecture and gardens across the centuries. A total of 10 rectangular pools surround the Mosque and are tiled in different shades of blue. Nearly 7,000 square meters of water breathes freshness and life into the architecture and cools the bright shimmer of the white marble. The view is especially spectacular by night when a specially designed lighting system projects bluish-gray clouds onto the white surfaces of the Mosque.
The Lunar Illuminations
The mosque's lunar lighting system was uniquely designed to reflect the lunar cycle, projected onto the mosque's external surfaces and the illumination varies intensity and brightness throughout the Hijri month according to the moon's position and stage. Soft undulating clouds of a bluish color are projected onto the mosque's white marble external walls, including the façade and domes. Each day appears slightly different from the next as the lighting cycle commences with darker clouds when the month is in its early stages, and the moon is a small crescent. As the moon progresses through its cycle and becomes a full moon, the lighting effect becomes more brilliant. This concept of marking time and important events by the moon's phases is a phenomenon shared across many civilizations and cultures, such as the Hebrew, Chinese, Japanese Korean, and Hindu lunar calendars, further highlighting the commonalities between cultures. More than 840 lighting units are distributed around the mosque, projecting uniform precise rays. In addition, 22 light towers consisting of 10 to 13 light projectors that help achieve this creative effect.
The Carpet
The main prayer hall houses the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet, by Guinness World Records in 2007. The intricate Islamic medallion carpet was hand-knotted by approximately 1,200 artisans and took around 2 years, including 8 months of designing and 12 months of knotting. The rest of the time was spent weaving the pieces together. It was made in nine separate pieces, flown to Abu Dhabi, and stitched together on-site. The final carpet, which fills the entire Main Prayer Hall, is 5,400 square meters, weighs 35 tons, of which about 70% is made of New Zealand wool and 30% of cotton. Also, one of the unique features included in the carpet manufacturing is the raised divisions that are not seams. These ridges indicate lines (prayer lines) where worshippers should stand to pray. The indication lines are separate from the design, although worshippers can easily identify the lines in which to stand when the prayers commence. The lines were made by shaving the carpet and leaving those lines elevated, so they decreased the thickness of the carpet to show the 32 elevated lines in the main prayer hall. The design features Islamic and floral designs, with most of the medallions located under the chandeliers as a reflection of them on the carpet. For example, look up at one of the chandeliers. See how the circular arabesque design comes to a central point. There, crystals hang like droplets of color, ready to splash onto the medallion design of the carpet below. Throughout the Mosque, you will find a design relationship among the chandeliers, carpet, wall elevations, and glasswork.
The Chandeliers
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque houses 7 chandeliers that blend in harmony with its unique design and the esthetics of Islamic art and architecture that catch the eye of visitors from all over the world as three huge crystal chandeliers suspend from the three domes inside the main prayer hall , similar in design, with the largest in the middle, in addition to four smaller chandeliers distributed in the VIP foyer, the Floral foyer and the two side foyers of the main hall. The design is inspired by the date palm tree, where the trunk is the cylindrical part of the chandelier, the fronds are the corresponding parts in a concave shape, and the colored globes are the dates or the fruits of the date palm trees, suggesting the noble values which the UAE society embodies such as authenticity generosity, and giving instilled by the late founding father for generations. The chandeliers design features Islamic and floral designs, with most of the medallions located underneath ,as a reflection of them on the carpet. For example, look up at one of the chandeliers. See how the circular arabesque design comes to a central point. There, crystals hang like droplets of color, ready to splash onto the medallion design of the carpet below. The largest chandeliers in the mosque are located in the main hall and are 12 m in diameter, 15.5m in height, with 15,500 LEDs. As for the other smaller versions of the same design, located in the main prayer hall, each weigh 8 tons and are 12.5 m in height and 7 m in diameter, with 9,500 LEDs. The mosque also includes chandeliers that are 4.5 m in diameter and 6.5 m in height, weighing 2 tons with 1,200 LEDs. Stainless steel gilded with 24-carat galvanized gold was used to manufacture the chandeliers, The panels of the chandeliers' are inlaid with Swarovski crystals, while the number of green, red, and yellow crystal balls used in the design are about 40 million pieces; which add a unique aesthetic touch to the entire prayer hall.
The Mihrab
The Mihrab (Niche) is an essential architectural element of a mosque and symmetrically located in the middle of the Qibla Wall. It is a semicircular design located in the middle of the Qibla wall and traditionally known as the place where the imam will stand to lead the worshippers. Its Design is inspired by one of the references to ‘Heaven’ or ‘Paradise’ in the Holy Quran (Surah Mohammed-15) that describes the existence of many abundant rivers in heaven including a river of honey and milk. The yellow golden leaf-glass mosaic of the Mihrab seems to flow downwards from the ‘beehive’ feature at the top, as if it were a river of golden honey. The reason why the Mihrab is in a half circle shape is related to the pre-electronic times when it helped to project the imam’s voice and create an echo ,so that the worshippers could hear him.
The Minbar
The Minbar (Pulpit) at Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is located on the right of the Mihrab. It includes 11 steps to allow the imam (leader of prayers) stands and deliver sermons (khutbah) to address the large number of worshippers that Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque receives. Made of carved American cedar wood inlaid with mother of pearl, white gold, and glass mosaic, the Minbar features floral and shell designs, with a small dome-shaped 'roof' and crescent finial at the top of the stairs. The Minbar is one of the early features of Islamic architecture. The historical references indicate that the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, used to stand by the trunk of a date-palm tree while delivering the sermon. Later, someone suggested they build a pulpit for him to stand or sit when delivering the sermon on Fridays, Eid, or other occasions.
The Al Noor Foyer
Floral vines climb and curl in elegant patterns on the walls, creating a beautiful semblance of living plants, and the flowers on the floor are species found in the Arabian Gulf, like Blue Plumbago and Field Gladiolus. Inspired by an image of a botanical garden, Kevin Dean designed the main and east foyers with flowers that grow in the Middle East and the side North and South entrances with species from the Northern and Southern hemispheres. The floral patterns and designs decorating these foyers welcome visitors from all walks of life with a reminder of home. In creating the floral patterns of the main and east foyer walls, the artisans used the relief technique, and that's why the flowers are in 3D shapes. Beautiful colored marble from over 37 countries adorns the floors and walls of the foyer, where all marble work was done by the Italian company Fantini Mosaici. The dome in this foyer is one of the Mosque's large domes, decorated with Moroccan plasterwork reinforced with fiberglass. Its designs feature traditional Islamic arabesque, and the Arabic calligraphy on this dome is a verse from the Holy Qur'an taken from the Chapter or Surat, Ar-Rahman (the Merciful). This particular calligraphy style is known as Naskh. Each dome is designed with different verses and in different Arabic calligraphies: Naskh, Kufic, and Thuluth."
The Main Prayer Hall
The main prayer hall is the largest in Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and can accommodate approximately 7,800 worshippers. It's also used for important prayers and large congregations, including Eid festivals, the Holy month of Ramadan, and Friday Sermons. The Mosque's symmetry is a central feature of Islamic design. Almost everything is repeated on either side of the center, as though in a mirror image. All prayer halls at the Mosque have been carefully designed to create a tranquil and serene ambiance, ranging from the interior columns, the aesthetic details adorning the walls, the carpet, and the chandeliers, which all are one of the most captivating features of the prayer halls. Also, symmetry at the Mosque is a central element of Islamic design. Where, almost everything is repeated on either side of the center, as though in a mirror image. The Mosque includes two additional prayer halls, one for men and the other for women, each of which can accommodate 1500 worshippers used during the daily prayers.
The Interior Columns
In the main prayer room, 96 columns stand in groups of four, inlaid with mother-of-pearl vines and topped with stylized, golden-colored palm fronds. They are arranged in three circular formats and contribute to the structural support for the three main domes of the main prayer hall. They also house the air conditioning system in the middle of each pylon. This work was completed mainly by craftsmen in China.
The Qibla Wall
The prayer hall has one wall facing Makkah, called the Qibla wall. The Qibla wall indicates the direction of the Ka'abah, the cubic-shaped building in the holy city of Makkah, Saudi Arabia. All Muslims pray facing the Ka'abah. The Qibla wall is cladded with Aquabianca and Bianco P marbles from Italy, and the design features many five-sided flower shapes, each containing a word. These are the ninety-nine most beautiful names or qualities of Allah, such as The Merciful, The Gracious, The Patient, The Wise, and The Charitable, to name just a few. This calligraphy style is called Kufic, and the Emirati calligrapher of the Qibla wall is Mohammed Mandi Al Tamimi. The wall is subtly illuminated with fiber-optic lighting. At the center of its design is a large circle. The name written inside is Allah, meaning God Almighty. The flower shape above it is empty. This absence represents Allah's unlimited qualities, which are unknown to us. Above the Mihrab (the niche) is a golden script, a verse from Al-A'araf Surah (chapter) that encourages Muslims to learn the meanings of Allah's qualities and use them during prayers. The Qibla wall has fewer colors than the walls behind them so that not to disturb the worshippers during their prayers.
The Clocks
There are 11 clocks in the inner halls of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, made in the United Kingdom and designed in the shape of a six-petaled flower made from stainless steel inlaid with pearls. In the center, the analog hands indicate the hour and minutes, while the digital panels indicate the prayer times. They are shaped like a six-petaled flower, each petal containing a flashing digital display. At the top, the time indicates the Fajr prayer time, followed by Shorouq or sunrise moving clockwise, then the Dhuhr prayer and Asr prayer. Later the Maghrib prayer performed between sunset and darkness, and concluding with the Isha prayer that is performed after dark, where the technology used takes into account the continuous change in dates throughout the year.
The Interior Walls
The walls of the main prayer hall are all clad with different types of marble from Italian quarries, such as white lasa, Bianco P, and Aquabianca. The elevations' patterns are interconnected circles forming five-sided stars and flowers clad with beautiful colored marble mosaics. The central glass part allows light to pass through.
The Glass Doors
The Mosque's glass doors are made of three panes of Italian Murano glass. The inner and outer panes are clear, but sandwiched between them, is a central pane with a beautiful floral design, using mosaic, cut, and sandblasting techniques. Glass doorways and openings like this bring light into the interior, illuminating the inner walls, floors, and domes. They also call to mind the careful attention paid to incorporating the finest and most distinctive artistic elements into every aspect of this mega structure of art and architecture.
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