Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Mosque, Abu Dhabi (must see)

The Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Mosque is an iconic architectural gem that holds a prominent place in the city of Abu Dhabi. The mosque's construction was initiated during the administration of the late President Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, a visionary leader and a pivotal figure in the establishment of the modern UAE.

This magnificent mosque stands as a testament to unity and international collaboration, as it was constructed with materials sourced from various countries worldwide. Materials from Italy, Germany, Morocco, Pakistan, India, Turkey, Iran, China, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, Greece, and the United Arab Emirates came together to create this awe-inspiring structure. The use of high-quality and durable materials such as marble, stone, gold, semi-precious stones, crystals, and ceramics underscores the meticulous attention to detail in the design and construction of the mosque.

The grand endeavor involved the efforts of over 3,000 workers and 38 contracting companies, contributing to the creation of this stunning architectural masterpiece. With a capacity to accommodate approximately 41,000 people, the mosque covers an impressive area of 22,412 square meters (241,240 square feet).

The internal prayer halls of the mosque were opened to the public in December 2007, and since then, it has become one of the most visited buildings in the UAE. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Center was established to oversee the mosque's day-to-day operations, serving as a place of worship, Friday gatherings, as well as an educational and cultural center for visitors to learn and discover.

With its awe-inspiring beauty, grandeur, and significance, the Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Grand Mosque has become a symbol of national pride for the UAE, attracting visitors from all corners of the globe to experience its breathtaking architecture, embrace its spiritual aura, and appreciate the values of unity, tolerance, and peace that it embodies.