My First Visit to Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi (August 2014)

Since it’s Ramadan, I will be reminiscing the time when I first entered and prayed at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi. This is, by so far, the largest and most beautiful mosque I have ever been. I clearly remember wayback August 2014, when I first entered this Mosque, I was studded and breathless. Compared to the Mosques that I had been in the Philippines, this one is obviously the most beautiful one.

It was my first Ramadhan in the UAE at that time and we decided to have our Tarawe (Prayers) in the mosque. I was so excited as I heard that this mosque is very beautiful.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the tourist destinations in the UAE because it is the largest mosque in the country. Not only that, it’s beautiful white and gold architecture which is surrounded by pools and fountains. On a daily basis, thousands of people either tourists or Muslims, visit the mosque however, it is not crowded because it is just so big.

Before entering the mosque, all girls will be required to wear Long black dress called Abaya and wear Hijab on their heads. This is a holy place and Non-Muslims should obliged and respect Muslim cultures. If ever you don’t have Abaya, don’t worry as there are free Abaya’s with Hijab that will be lend to you free of charge.

1. Keep silent and avoid unnecessary noises to not distract the people who are praying.

2. Follow all instructions that will be given by the people who are in charged which includes, removing your footwear before entering the mosque.

3. Strictly no eating and drinking inside the mosque.

4. For women, wear your Abaya and Hijab Properly. Avoid showing your hairs or even small part of it and do not wear short dresses.

5. Do not take pictures of the people who are praying.

6. Do not make any hand gestures or any signs (peace or heart & etc. )in taking pictures. If the guards will see you, they will ask you to delete those pictures right away.

7. Men and women should wear modest clothes.

Any mosque either big or small, is a holy place and every visitor should respect the rules of the place. I admit that I am studded with its beautiful architecture yet, the rules that every mosque have are all the same. They have common values, Islamic culture and tradition. Furthermore may our respect be upon our Muslim brothers and sisters whether Ramadhan or not. And during this holy month, dress properly and do not bring or eat foods nor drink at public places.