Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Attracts 3.1 Million Visitors in Six Months

Aug 17, 2026

70 min

Aug 17, 2026 15:31

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque welcomes 3.1 million guests in six months

## Record Visitor Numbers

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi welcomed over 3.1 million visitors in the first half of 2026, solidifying its status as a key religious and cultural destination. This figure includes both worshippers and tourists, with a significant portion of visitors coming from overseas.

## Worship and Cultural Engagement

During this period, the mosque hosted 1.84 million worshippers, including those attending iftar. Friday prayers attracted nearly 100,000 worshippers, while daily prayers saw over 229,000 attendees. The mosque was particularly busy during Ramadan and Eid Al Fitr, with over half a million people participating in prayers.

## International Appeal

The mosque's international appeal is evident, with 78% of visitors coming from abroad. India was the largest source of international visitors, followed by China, Russia, and the United States. The mosque also conducted over 1,000 guided tours, emphasizing its architectural beauty and cultural significance.

## Cultural Initiatives

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre launched more than ten cultural and educational initiatives, including exhibitions and forums promoting intercultural dialogue. Notable projects included the "Manuscripts: Identity and Sustainable Development" exhibition and participation in the Kazan Forum 2026.

## Community and Educational Programs

The mosque's "Jusoor" program offered an immersive Ramadan experience, while the "Diya" photography competition encouraged cultural expression through art. The centre also highlighted the contributions of Muslim scholars and expanded its cultural offerings with new museum exhibits and immersive experiences.

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