Triumphant Sheikh Zayed Mosque: A Global Icon

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque – The Middle East's Top, World's Eighth-Best Attraction in 2025

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (SZGM) in the capital of the United Arab Emirates has earned another prestigious accolade: according to TripAdvisor's 2025 global report, it ranked eighth among the world's 25 most outstanding attractions, improving by two spots compared to the previous year. It continues to hold the top position in the Middle East region, surpassing numerous iconic sites.

Global and Regional Recognition

The mosque's ranking is based on the analysis of over eight million tourist reviews and feedback. With this result, the SZGM has entered the top one percent of all evaluated attractions worldwide. The iconic building in Abu Dhabi strengthens its position year after year as a leading global destination for cultural tourism, welcoming more than seven million visitors and worshipers annually.

Additionally, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Fujairah has also entered the top ten percent of world attractions, which is particularly remarkable given the recent launch of comprehensive visitor services there.

Visitor Experiences and Services

The SZGM in Abu Dhabi is not only a religious site but also a full-fledged cultural center. Visitors can enjoy various experiences:

Visitor center with exhibition halls, auditorium, and library

Souq Al Jami’ shopping and leisure center with restaurants and cafes

Running track offering the opportunity to exercise with a spectacular external panorama of the mosque

Sura night tours, offering 24-hour visit opportunities, including behind-the-scenes maintenance and cleaning work

El-Delleel multimedia docent, providing interactive cultural tours in 14 languages – including sign language – as well as special programs for children

Cultural and Educational Role

The SZGM continuously introduces new programs aimed at showcasing the legacy of Islamic civilization. The Dome of Peace offers a unique cultural experience combining authentic and modern elements. Through its library, permanent and temporary exhibitions, and cultural lectures, the mosque allows visitors to gain insight into the richness of Islamic art and history.

The most notable exhibitions include:

Al-Andalus: History and Civilization

Coins of Islam: Unveiling History

Hajj: Memories of a Journey

Museum of Light and Peace, and the Diya – The World of Light experience, which guides visitors through starlit skies to the cultural heart of the UAE with 360-degree projections, sound, and wind effects.

International Visitors and Diplomatic Significance

Approximately 82% of the mosque's guests come from abroad, and the site regularly hosts high-ranking international delegations. Programs led by Emirati Cultural Tour Experts convey messages of peace and harmony to visitors from around the world.

Summary

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is not only an architectural masterpiece but also a cultural ambassador of the United Arab Emirates. The TripAdvisor 2025 recognition is further evidence that one of Abu Dhabi's most iconic attractions rightfully holds its place among the world's leading tourist destinations.

(Source of the article based on TripAdvisor's 2025 global report.)