The largest mosque in the Emirates, it can hold 40,000 worshippers and it cost over $500 million to build. It rises up out of the desert just outside the main part of Abu Dhabi and it is quite a spectacle. It contains the world’s largest chandelier as well as the world’s largest carpet.
We arrived mid-afternoon on a beautifully sunny day. The mosque looms over the surrounding area and apartment and condo buildings sell the advantage of a view of the Grand Mosque. It is beautiful.
As you get closer the size of the place starts to become real. And then the gorgeous water pools and fountains begin to be revealed.
Inside the main promenade (or gallery?) you begin to experience the wonder as you become surrounded by the white marble and the ornate columns.
And then you turn the corner and the entire main plaza the is made from the same white marble is open to view. Awe inspiring.
Then you cross the plaza and enter the mosque itself. Inside you’ll find the 12 ton chandelier made from 24k gold and Swarovski crystals hanging from the center of the prayer room.
This is also the room that contains the world’s largest carpet – and it is big!
Overall an excellent point of interest if you come to Abu Dhabi.
Entry is free, but it is a working mosque so respect is required. This means no sleeveless shirts, no shorts, shoes off, and for ladies heads must be covered. They have abayas you can borrow if you come unprepared, but I can’t vouch for the last time they were laundered so dress appropriately!
1 comment
I can’t even imagine . . .
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