As Part of the 'Jusoor' Programme Aimed at Bridging Cultures and Nations, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre Hosts a Delegation from Abu Dhabi Accueil for French Speakers

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As part of the "Jusoor" programme, encompassing all initiatives, activities, and events launched by Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre to promote intercultural dialogue, foster closer ties between cultures, and enhance the UAE’s global image, His Excellency Dr Yousif Al Obaidli, Director-General of the Centre, met a delegation from Abu Dhabi Accueil. The association supports newly arrived French-speaking residents in Abu Dhabi by organising a variety of social, cultural, and recreational activities.

The Centre had previously launched the "Jusoor" programme to invite individuals and institutions from diverse cultures to participate in various activities and programmes held at the mosque. Participants are given the opportunity to explore the Centre’s core message, inspired by the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Founding Father of the UAE, and the country’s wise leadership, which aims to consolidate humanitarian values and introduce them to Emirati heritage.

The meeting, held at the Peace Dome, was particularly significant as the mosque is among the foremost landmarks visited by the French community in the UAE, including tourists and residents. Since its opening, the mosque has welcomed approximately 1,820,000 French visitors, notably including France’s First Lady Brigitte Macron, former French President François Hollande, former Prime Minister Édouard Philippe, former Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian, and Jean-Luc Martinez, President of the Louvre Museum in Paris. Additionally, in 2024 alone, the mosque hosted 124,691 visitors.

During the meeting, His Excellency the Director-General emphasised that when the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan decided to build the mosque, he envisioned it as a meeting place for diverse cultures from around the world. This vision was realized through the mosque's construction, which incorporated elements and materials sourced from across the globe, ensuring that every visitor found a connection to their own culture or geographical region.

His Excellency the Director-General further noted that guest feedback received by the Centre through "Google Reviews" and "TripAdvisor," as well as visitor experiences from the cultural tours offered by the Centre, confirmed that the mosque has significantly contributed to fostering an accurate understanding of Islamic culture and promoting a positive image of the UAE. Visitors mentioned that, through their experience at this prominent landmark, they discovered shared elements connecting them to the region's peoples, such as arts and other aspects, and indicated they would recommend Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque to others interested in learning about the region's culture.

His Excellency the Director-General also highlighted the "Light & Peace Museum," which houses numerous exhibits symbolising coexistence and intercultural dialogue.

Following the meeting, delegation members toured the "Light & Peace Museum," exploring its sections, collections, and activities. They were introduced to various aspects of Islamic civilisation, its rich legacy of art and science, and its enduring values of tolerance and coexistence, which have significantly influenced global cultural exchanges. The delegation also experienced "Diya – A Universe of Light," an immersive, interactive experience featuring a 360-degree multimedia presentation accompanied by sound and sensory effects, including wind, guiding visitors through an inspiring sensory journey from the star-lit cosmos to the landscapes of the UAE.

The delegation then toured the mosque’s halls and external arcades, where they learned about its civilisational message promoting coexistence, tolerance, and openness to others. They were introduced to the history behind the establishment of this iconic landmark, appreciating the aesthetic magnificence and exquisite Islamic architecture evident throughout its spaces. The visitors also admired unique collections and splendid examples of Islamic artistry and design, which, despite their diversity, seamlessly converge in the mosque’s design, embodying the harmonious blend of cultures in a single, creative masterpiece.

It is noteworthy that Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre actively participates in events organised by countries around the world, including the French Republic. A delegation from the Centre previously took part in France’s International Tourism Exhibition, "Top Resa."