FAQs

When is the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque open for visitors?

Normal visiting hours are from Saturday to Thursday, 09:00 am to 10:00 pm (Last admission at 09:30 pm) On Friday, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is open from 09:00 am to 12:00 pm (Last admission at 11:30 am) and reopens from 3:00 pm. to 10:00 pm (Last entry at 09:30 pm)

Is there an entry fee?

No, admission to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is free.

Does the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque conduct guided tours?

Yes, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque daily offers free guided walk-in tours for individuals and groups. Tours are led by an official SZGMC cultural tour specialist who will take you and other public members around the mosque, explaining various elements of the architecture and Islamic culture. Visitors should arrive approximately 15 minutes before the tour time, and our Visitor Experience coordinators will be there to greet you and assist you in joining a tour. The tour is approximately 30 - 45 minutes in length.

Where do the tours start (Starting Point)?

Tours commence on the East side of the mosque. Ask any of our friendly operations team (security or ground staff) where the tours start, and they will be happy to guide you to the right starting point.

Does the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque provide transportation services to the mosque?

No, visitors can make their own way to the mosque by (taxi, bus, or personal car).

Are children allowed during the visits or tours?

Children are welcome during the visit but must remain under their parents' constant guidance and supervision.

What should I wear to visit the mosque?

It is essential to understand the dress code when visiting the mosque. Long, loose-fitting, ankle-length clothes for women and men. Women must wear a headscarf. Please refer to the  Mosque Manners

Are parking lots available at the mosque?

Yes, you can park your car in the southern parking lots, as indicated by the signboards alongside the mosque entrances.

Are sanitary facilities available?

Yes, several sanitary facilities (Toilets) are available for both males and females.

Is smoking allowed inside the mosque?

Smoking is NOT allowed anywhere on the mosque grounds.

Why are visitors not allowed to bring food and beverages (even water) to the mosque?

Many of the architectural features of the mosque (particularly the delicate marble and carpet) must be handled with care to ensure they are protected and not prone to damage.

Can I visit the mosque without a guided tour?

Yes, the mosque is open and welcomes all individuals and groups, either with or without a guide.

Can I take photographs and record videos using cameras, video recorders, or mobile cameras?

Yes, photographs and videos are allowed for personal use. At the allocated photo stops at the mosque, Professional filmmakers and media establishments must obtain the Centre's prior permission by filling out the  Filming Permit form.

What languages are spoken during the guided tours?

Currently, the SZGMC Guides offer tours in English and Arabic only.

How long does the guided tour take?

The tour takes 45 to 60 minutes.

What should I consider when visiting the mosque?

Adherence to the mosque manners. Please refer to  Mosque Manners

Are there any facilities for people of determination & elderly visitors?

Yes, the SZGMC provides wheelchairs for people of determination and senior citizens, which can be requested from the security personnel. There are club cars as well to transport visitors between the parking lots and the tour's starting point.

Safety and Security Procedures (Inspection / Closed areas)

To ensure visitor safety, all visitors are kindly requested to adhere to all instructions given by the security personnel, such as: heading towards the right track, especially when raining, during bad weather conditions, or when maintenance work is in progress. Visitors must also watch their steps to avoid slipping. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre pertains an inspection mechanism applied to all mosque visitors to ensure public security before the entrance to the mosque  and provides separate tracks for women and men.