Continuing its efforts to highlight the Mosque’s global role in promoting cultural and humanitarian exchange, and as part of the ''Minarets of the Two Capitals'' initiative within its ''Jusoor'' programme

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre showcases a model of the mosque and its publications at its latest exhibition in Moscow

 

As part of its strategy to highlight the civilisational role of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque as an exceptional example among global places of worship, embodying the UAE’s values of tolerance, coexistence, and cultural exchange, and within its “Minarets of the Two Capitals” initiative under the “Jusoor” programme, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre inaugurated a mosque model, a mobile library, and the “Spaces of Light” photography Award exhibition at the Moscow Cathedral Mosque.

The inauguration was led by a delegation headed by His Excellency Dr Yousif Al Obaidli, Director-General of the Centre, and attended by His Excellency Dr Mohammed Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Ambassador to the Russian Federation, and His Eminence Sheikh Rawi Ainuddin, Mufti of the Russian Federation and Head of the Religious Administration of Muslims of Russia.

The inauguration of the mosque model is part of the Centre’s “Jusoor” programme, which seeks to promote the UAE’s cultural image worldwide. Since 2012, more than 21 mosque models have been displayed internationally. Prominent among these were those at the UAE Embassy in Moscow; the Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia in Kuala Lumpur—one of the foremost museums in Southeast Asia and the Islamic world; the Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan Centre for Arabic Language and Islamic Studies in Beijing; and the Museum of Peace and Reconciliation in Kazakhstan.

The mobile library featured the Centre’s 27 publications specialising in Arab and Islamic culture, highlighting values of tolerance, coexistence, and fraternity—core principles embraced by the UAE and actively promoted worldwide. Meanwhile, the photography exhibition presented a selection of outstanding winning images from the “Spaces of Light” Photography Award, which has drawn extensive participation from professional and amateur photographers across diverse backgrounds and cultures.

The programme also featured two lectures by His Excellency the Centre’s Director-General, titled “Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: A Place for All and Creativity in Specialised Fields.” The first lecture was delivered at the Moscow State Institute of International Relations and attended by students of the Institute, including Emirati students. The second lecture was held at Moscow State University, attended by several university students.

 

Commenting on the comprehensive programme, His Excellency Dr Yousif Al Obaidli, Director-General of the Centre, said:

“Since its establishment, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre has represented a unique example among places of worship, embodying values of tolerance and peace. Over the years, it has become a haven where millions of visitors from all nationalities gather annually, serving as a meeting point for diverse cultures from around the world. By organising this programme in Moscow, the Centre reaffirms its civilisational role, representing the UAE’s renowned principles of tolerance and coexistence. This visit aims to convey the Centre’s message of coexistence, tolerance, and openness, while strengthening cooperation and exchanging experiences with Russia’s cultural and academic institutions.”

His Excellency Dr Mohammed Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Ambassador to the Russian Federation, stated:

“ The late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan envisioned the Grand Mosque as a beacon of tolerance, beauty, and Islamic creativity. Today, we share this vision in the heart of the Russian capital at its iconic mosque, which itself symbolises a profound religious and historical legacy for Russia’s Muslims. This architectural exchange between the two mosques conveys a message of hope and dialogue, underscoring that the dialogue of civilisations is expressed not merely through words but through actions and initiatives that build bridges of understanding and closeness among nations.”

On the sidelines of the programme, the Centre’s delegation visited some of Moscow’s most prominent museums and cultural institutions, including the Kremlin Museums, the Museum of Oriental Art, and the Russian National Library. Additionally, the Centre’s Director-General held meetings with the Director of the Moscow State Institute of International Relations, the Director of the Russian National Library, and officials from the Fund for Support of Islamic Culture, Science, and Education. Discussions focused on the Mosque’s cultural initiatives, notably the Light & Peace Museum and the experiences offered to visitors from around the globe, as well as opportunities to further enhance collaboration between the Centre and these institutions.

Notably, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is among the leading landmarks visited by members of the Russian community, including both residents and tourists in the UAE. Since its opening, the Mosque has welcomed approximately 2,914,000 Russian visitors, with 293,667 visiting in 2024 alone.