How to Plan Your Abu Dhabi Half Day City Tour in Sheikh Zayed Mosque

If you’re planning a trip to Abu Dhabi, one of the main attractions to visit is the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. But why only visit one attraction when you can see all of the city’s major landmarks on a half-day city tour? This Abu Dhabi Half Day City Tour will take you to Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, as well as other iconic landmarks, giving you a unique taste of the city’s diverse offerings. Below is a guide on how to plan your Abu Dhabi Half Day City Tour.

Experience

This tour will provide a comprehensive overview of Abu Dhabi’s most famous buildings and landmarks. You’ll visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, which is a must-see. This carefully crafted gem of a mosque has 82 domes, and over 1,000 columns. It’s a remarkable piece of architecture that can leave you speechless. You’ll also stroll along the City Corniche, where you’ll be able to soak in views of the city’s coastline. After that, you’ll stop for photos at the Emirates Palace, one of the finest hotels in the world. You get to visit the Etihad Towers as well, an iconic landmark where you can enjoy the scenic view of Abu Dhabi’s skyline. Finally, you’ll visit Qasr Al Watan Palace, where you can trace out the Arabian heritage and artistry. The Palace is a unique and beautifully designed structure with stunning gardens that gives you a glimpse of the Arabic culture in the region.

Highlights

Some of the tour highlights include:

• Marvel at the architectural beauty of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
• Stroll along the serene City Corniche
• Stop for photos at Emirates Palace
• Visit Etihad Towers
• Trace out the Arabian heritage and artistry at Qasr Al Watan Palace

Full Description

This half-day tour takes approximately four hours and includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Abu Dhabi. Once you’re picked up, the tour guide will give you an overview of the itinerary and what to expect on the tour. The tour includes air-conditioned transportation and a professional licensed bilingual tour guide who will share insights into the city’s culture, history, and architecture. You’ll even get to visit the Etihad Tower Observation Deck and enjoy a bird’s-eye view of Abu Dhabi’s skyline. Water is served on board, but personal expenses and tips are not included in the tour price. However, the guided tour inside Qasr Al Watan Palace is included in the price, where you get to experience the beauty and learn about the history of the Palace. Please note that the tour is not wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for those who have trouble walking long distances.

Booking

To book the tour, visit Get Your Guide. It’s best to book in advance to ensure availability for your desired date and time.

The Bottom Line

If you’re short on time, but you still want to experience Abu Dhabi’s must-see landmarks, then the Abu Dhabi Half Day City Tour is the perfect option for you. You can visit all the important attractions like Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Emirates Palace, Etihad Towers, City Corniche, and Qasr Al Watan Palace in a single tour, giving you excellent value for your money.

FAQ: Sheikh Zayed Mosque

Sheikh Zayed Mosque, also known as the Grand Mosque, is the largest mosque in the United Arab Emirates and a must-visit tourist destination. Here is everything you need to know about the mosque and its visit:

Where is the Sheikh Zayed Mosque located?

The Sheikh Zayed Mosque is located in Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates. It is situated in the eastern part of the city and is easily accessible by car or public transportation.

When is the Sheikh Zayed Mosque open for visitors?

The mosque is open for visitors every day of the week except Friday. The visiting hours are from 9 AM to 10 PM on weekdays and from 4:30 PM to 10 PM on Saturdays and Sundays.

Is there an admission fee for visiting Sheikh Zayed Mosque?

No, there is no admission fee for visiting the mosque. It is open to the public and free to enter. However, visitors are required to follow the mosque’s dress code and behavior guidelines.

What is the dress code for visiting the mosque?

Visitors are required to dress modestly when visiting the mosque. Men must wear long pants and sleeves, and women must cover their hair and wear modest clothing that covers their arms and legs. Abayas (long dresses) and shawls are available for free at the entrance for visitors who are not dressed appropriately.

Is it necessary to book a tour to visit the mosque?

No, it is not necessary to book a tour to visit the mosque. Visitors can explore the mosque on their own or join one of the free tour groups that are available throughout the day. However, if you want to visit the mosque’s library and learn more about Islamic culture and art, a guided tour can be helpful.

Can non-Muslims visit the mosque?

Yes, non-Muslims are welcome to visit the mosque. In fact, the mosque was built to celebrate Islamic culture and to promote interfaith dialogue and understanding.

What are the highlights of the Sheikh Zayed Mosque?

The Sheikh Zayed Mosque is a stunning example of Islamic architecture and design. The mosque has several highlights that visitors should not miss, including:

• The world’s largest hand-knotted carpet, which covers the main prayer hall
• The seven crystal chandeliers that were imported from Germany and contain millions of Swarovski crystals
• The Qibla wall, which indicates the direction of Mecca
• The four 107-meter high minarets that are visible from a distance
• The reflective pools that surround the mosque, creating a stunning visual effect at night

Are there any rules or guidelines that visitors should follow when visiting the mosque?

Yes, visitors are required to follow the mosque’s behavior guidelines, which include:

• Wear modest clothing that covers the arms and legs
• Remove your shoes before entering the mosque
• Avoid bringing food and drinks into the mosque
• Avoid smoking and using your phone inside the mosque
• Respect the mosque’s sacredness and avoid loud conversations and behavior

Can visitors take photographs inside the mosque?

Yes, visitors are allowed to take photographs inside the mosque. In fact, the mosque’s design and architecture provide many stunning photo opportunities. However, visitors should avoid taking photographs of other people who are praying or worshiping inside the mosque.

Is the Sheikh Zayed Mosque accessible for visitors with disabilities?

Yes, the mosque is accessible for visitors with disabilities. There are designated parking spots for visitors with disabilities, and the mosque has wheelchair ramps and accessible restrooms. The mosque’s tours are also accessible for visitors with disabilities.

What is the best time to visit the Sheikh Zayed Mosque?

The best time to visit the Sheikh Zayed Mosque is during the late afternoon or early evening hours, when the sunlight illuminates the mosque’s white marble walls and design elements. Visitors can also witness the mosque’s stunning lighting effects at night, which add to the mosque’s mystic and charm.

Book Your Tour Now

The Sheikh Zayed Mosque is a cultural and architectural masterpiece that every visitor to Abu Dhabi should explore. By following the mosque’s dress code and behavior guidelines, visitors can respect the mosque’s importance and sacredness while enjoying its beauty and highlights.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Sheikh Zayed Mosque

The Sheikh Zayed Mosque is a magnificent architectural beauty located in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates. The mosque is named after the UAE’s founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and is one of the largest mosques in the world. It is a must-visit attraction for tourists who come to Abu Dhabi. Here’s a guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Sheikh Zayed Mosque.

1. Take a Guided Tour

The best way to explore Sheikh Zayed Mosque is through a guided tour. The tour guides are knowledgeable about the mosque’s architecture, history, and cultural significance. They help visitors to understand the symbolism behind various design elements, such as the calligraphy on the walls, the intricate tile work, and the chandeliers. Additionally, the tours are free of charge, and you can book them at the mosque’s entrance. The tours operate daily, except for Friday mornings when the mosque is open for prayers only.

2. Admire the Stunning Architecture

Sheikh Zayed Mosque’s architecture is a blend of modern and traditional Islamic styles, with a focus on symmetry and proportions. The mosque’s exterior is made of white marble and features 82 domes, four minarets, and intricate floral and geometric designs. The inner courtyard is lined with reflective pools and has a giant chandelier that holds the Guinness World Record for the largest chandelier in the world.

3. Witness the Prayer Services

Sheikh Zayed Mosque is an active mosque, so visitors can witness the daily prayers. The mosque opens its doors to the general public during non-prayer times, but visitors have to dress modestly and remove their shoes before entering. The prayer hall is breathtaking, with 96 columns made of white marble, gold leaf accents, and a stunning carpet that covers an area of 5700 square meters.

4. Visit the Library

The Sheikh Zayed Mosque Library is located in the mosque’s east wing and is open to the public. It houses a collection of more than fifty thousand books, including rare Islamic manuscripts, publications on Islamic architecture, and historical books on the UAE. The library also has several multimedia stations equipped with computers, internet, and audiovisual equipment.

5. Take Photographs

Sheikh Zayed Mosque is a photographer’s dream. It is one of the most photographed buildings in the world due to its magnificent architecture and design elements. Visitors are allowed to take photographs, but there are certain guidelines to follow. For example, you cannot take photographs during prayer times or in areas where worshippers are present. Additionally, you must dress modestly and respect the mosque’s sanctity.

6. Enjoy the Sunset

The best time to visit Sheikh Zayed Mosque is during sunset. The atmosphere is serene, and the mosque looks stunning in the golden light. You can take a walk around the mosque’s gardens, which are lit up at night, and enjoy the tranquil setting.

7. Shop for Souvenirs

The mosque has a gift shop where visitors can buy souvenirs, such as Islamic books, prayer beads, and traditional Arabic robes. The shop also has a wide range of products made by local artisans, such as calligraphy paintings, perfumes, and pottery.

8. Attend Events

Sheikh Zayed Mosque hosts several events throughout the year, such as exhibitions, concerts, and cultural festivals. These events showcase the best of UAE’s culture and traditions and are an excellent opportunity to learn more about the country’s history and heritage.

Book Your Tour Now

Sheikh Zayed Mosque is undoubtedly one of the most impressive landmarks in Abu Dhabi. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to experience the beauty of Islamic architecture, culture, and traditions. By taking a guided tour, admiring the stunning architecture, witnessing the prayer services, visiting the library, taking photographs, enjoying the sunset, shopping for souvenirs, and attending events, you can make your visit to Sheikh Zayed Mosque an unforgettable experience.