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Gulf Insider
a day ago
- Gulf Insider
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Ranks 8th on Tripadvisor's 2025
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (SZGM) in Abu Dhabi has risen to eighth place globally on TripAdvisor's 2025 Top Attractions list, climbing two spots from its 2024 ranking. It also retains its status as the number one landmark in the Middle East, reinforcing its position as a premier cultural and religious destination. Based on reviews of more than eight million landmarks worldwide, SZGM ranks within the top 1 per cent globally, reflecting its iconic status and importance in promoting cultural tourism in the UAE. Additionally, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Fujairah has earned a place among the top 10 per cent of global landmarks, marking rapid recognition since opening its visitor services. Dr. Yousif Al Obaidli, Director-General of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre (SZGMC), said: 'The global recognition attained by Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi reflects the visionary leadership of the UAE. It is the outcome of the centre's strategic plan, which focuses on enhancing services and providing exceptional experiences for its guests. 'This success crowns a continuous series of outstanding initiatives and services offered throughout the year. These efforts have included the development of both cultural and physical infrastructure, enhancement of facilities, excellence in specialist staff, and the empowerment of Emirati youth by qualifying them to deliver cultural tours and host the mosque's diverse visitors through distinguished programmes that embody the mosque's civilisational message. 'These accomplishments open new horizons for the centre, through which we anticipate the future with strategies and plans that enable it to continue fulfilling its civilisational mission with greater efficiency. 'They also allow us to consistently enrich the guest experience through religious and cultural programmes, exhibitions, and initiatives that reflect the mosque's message, presented in innovative formats and a refined manner that meets aspirations and fulfils our vision.' Welcoming more than seven million visitors annually, SZGM transcends its role as a place of worship to serve as a beacon of Islamic art, culture, and peaceful coexistence. Its tranquil spaces foster a unique human tapestry of fraternity and dialogue among diverse cultures and faiths. Visitors enjoy comprehensive facilities such as exhibition halls, a library, shopping and dining at Souq Al Jami'. Innovative experiences like guided cultural tours, 'Unseen Glimpses' electric car tours, and 24-hour visits ensure a rich and inclusive engagement for all guests. The SZGM also hosts dynamic exhibitions and the immersive Diya – A Universe of Light experience, which narrates the mosque's message of peace and cultural heritage through sound, visuals, and sensory effects. Basílica de la Sagrada Familia, Barcelona, Spain Eiffel Tower, Paris, France NASA Kennedy Space Centre Visitor Complex, Merritt Island, Brevard County, Florida Louvre Museum, Paris, France Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia Mutianyu Great Wall, Beijing, China Anne Frank House, Amsterdam, The Netherlands Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre, Abu Dhabi, UAE Duomo di Milano, Milan, Italy Plaza de España, Seville, Spain Also read: Dubai Shopping Malls Launch Virtual Worlds on Roblox Platform
Gulf Today
2 days ago
- Gulf Today
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque ranks first in Middle East, 8th among world's most prominent landmarks
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (SZGM) in Abu Dhabi has achieved a new global milestone by advancing to higher ranks on the list of the world's most prominent landmarks, according to leading travel and tourism platform TripAdvisor's 2025 global report. In the Top Attractions category, the SZGM ranked eighth globally among 25 distinguished landmarks, climbing two places from its 2024 ranking. It also retained its position as the number one attraction in the Middle East in this category, topping a list of the region's ten most iconic sites. SZGM's global ranking is based on a comprehensive analysis of more than eight million landmarks worldwide. It ranked within the top one per cent of all sites reviewed, reflecting its distinguished status both regionally and internationally, and reaffirming its leading role in promoting cultural tourism in the United Arab Emirates. An aerial view of the Grand Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Abu Dhabi. In another notable accomplishment, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Fujairah was ranked among the top 10 per cent of landmarks worldwide, according to selections made by travellers from across the globe. This achievement is particularly remarkable given the recent activation of visitor services at the mosque. These milestones, achieved by both mosques, affirm their leadership as cultural destinations on the global tourism map. Both have become prominent international landmarks, drawing visitors from diverse cultures around the world. Dr Yousif Al Obaidli, Director-General of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre (SZGMC), said, "The global recognition attained by Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi reflects the visionary leadership of the UAE. It is the outcome of the centre's strategic plan, which focuses on enhancing services and providing exceptional experiences for its guests. "This success crowns a continuous series of outstanding initiatives and services offered throughout the year. These efforts have included the development of both cultural and physical infrastructure, enhancement of facilities, excellence in specialist staff, and the empowerment of Emirati youth by qualifying them to deliver cultural tours and host the mosque's diverse visitors through distinguished programmes that embody the mosque's civilisational message.' He added, "These accomplishments open new horizons for the centre, through which we anticipate the future with strategies and plans that enable it to continue fulfilling its civilisational mission with greater efficiency. They also allow us to consistently enrich the guest experience through religious and cultural programmes, exhibitions, and initiatives that reflect the mosque's message, presented in innovative formats and a refined manner that meets aspirations and fulfils our vision.' The high international rankings achieved by SZGM in Abu Dhabi underscore its global distinction as a unique model among places of worship and cultural landmarks, serving as a benchmark in the region and beyond. Its role extends beyond that of a religious site hosting prayers and rituals - it stands out as a beacon of civilisation and culture, advancing the UAE's message of peaceful coexistence and harmony. The SZGM also revives and celebrates the elements of Islamic civilisation, embodying a distinctive architectural representation of Islamic art and heritage. It has established itself as a singular cultural tourism destination, welcoming more than seven million visitors and worshippers annually from across the globe. Within its serene spaces, people of different cultures and faiths come together, forming a human tapestry framed by values of fraternity, within a sanctuary of peace and coexistence. Shared human values bind them, and the language of civilisational dialogue becomes the bridge through which they transcend all differences. The SZGMC is steadfast in its continuous development of diverse, integrated services across all its landmarks and facilities, maintaining the highest standards to meet the evolving needs of its guests. At the SZGM in Abu Dhabi, visitors can spend an entire day enjoying a wide array of offerings - from the visitor centre, which includes exhibition halls, an auditorium, and a library, to Souq Al Jami', featuring shops, recreational spaces, and restaurants catering to all age groups. These facilities offer moments of rest and enjoyment within a unique atmosphere, further complemented by the mosque's jogging track that invites community members of all backgrounds to engage in physical activity while taking in the breathtaking exterior views of the SZGM. The SZGMC operates under a strategic plan, implemented through a cohesive system led by highly skilled professionals across various disciplines. These national talents work to provide exceptional cultural experiences to visitors from around the world. Among the most distinguished of these are the cultural tours, which are delivered by a select group of Emirati Cultural Tour Specialists who represent the UAE's civilisational identity and promote its message of peace and harmony. Owing to its prestigious global standing, the SZGM has become a key destination for high-level dignitaries visiting the UAE. Overseas visitors account for approximately 82 percent of its total guests. In the first half of the current year, the SZGMC continued to expand its innovative services and experiences, contributing to a notable rise in visitor numbers. Among the most prominent offerings are the general cultural tours and the 'Unseen Glimpses' tours - guided experiences delivered aboard custom electric club cars that offer guests exclusive insights into areas previously unexplored by the public. These experiences are part of an integrated set of high-standard services and activities, including Souq Al Jami, the mosque's jogging track, and the Sura evening tours, which grant visitors access to the mosque 24 hours a day. The Sura experience is designed for visitors to Abu Dhabi and the UAE who are on short transit stays or unable to visit during regular hours. It offers them an opportunity to witness aspects of the mosque not typically accessible during the day, such as scheduled maintenance and extraordinary cleaning operations. The SZGMC also provides El-Delleel, a multimedia device that offers immersive cultural tours in 14 international languages, including a dedicated sign language tour designed for guests who are deaf or have hearing impairments, as well as tailored tours for children, ensuring an inclusive visitor experience. Reflecting the SZGMC's continuous expansion in offering distinguished cultural experiences, the Dome of Peace at SZGM has emerged as a leading cultural destination in Abu Dhabi, providing visitors with a comprehensive and immersive journey that blends authenticity with innovation, all within a single, integrated space. The SZGMC has played a pivotal role in reinforcing the SZGM's standing as a global hub for cultural dialogue, through diverse facilities that include the specialised Al Jami Library, a cultural auditorium, and a series of permanent and temporary exhibitions that spotlight ancient civilisations. Among the most notable exhibitions are Al-Andalus: History and Civilisation, Coins of Islam: History Revealed, Islamic Coins: Civilisational Testimonies, Artistic Characteristics - Elegant Calligraphy and Inspiring Features, and the Hajj: Memories of a Journey, exhibition. Additionally, the Light & Peace Museum offers a dynamic, interactive space that fuses art with knowledge, while the Diya - A Universe of Light immersive experience invites visitors on a sensory journey. Presented in a 360-degree format with sound, visual, and wind effects, the experience takes guests from a celestial realm illuminated by starlight to the very heart of the UAE's heritage, visually narrating the SZGM's enduring message of coexistence and peace. WAM
Filipino Times
4 days ago
- Filipino Times
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque ranks 8th among world's top attractions, 1st in Middle East — global report
The iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque has once again received global recognition, ranking 8th among the world's top attractions in TripAdvisor's 2025 Travelers' Choice Awards: Best of the Best . The landmark also secured the top spot in the Middle East, leading the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Frame, Qasr Al Watan, and The Dubai Fountain, all of which made it to the top 5 in the regional category. Out of over 8 million listings, fewer than 1% earn the coveted 'Best of the Best' distinction, which is based on the volume and quality of real traveler reviews over a 12-month period. A reflection of visionary leadership Dr. Yousif Al Obaidli, Director-General of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre, attributed the global recognition to the UAE's forward-thinking leadership. 'This success crowns a continuous series of outstanding initiatives and services offered throughout the year. These efforts have included the development of both cultural and physical infrastructure, enhancement of facilities, excellence in specialist staff, and the empowerment of Emirati youth by qualifying them to deliver cultural tours and host the mosque's diverse visitors through distinguished programmes that embody the mosque's civilisational message,' he said. A growing global attraction In 2024, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque welcomed 6.58 million visitors and worshippers, marking a 20% increase from the previous year. The total included more than 4.2 million tourists and over 2.2 million worshippers and individuals observing fasts. Nearly 61,000 visitors also used the mosque's scenic jogging track. Religious events also drew significant crowds. Ramadan and Eid prayers alone attracted 617,458 attendees, with 87,186 people visiting on the 27th night of Ramadan, April 5 — the highest single-day attendance in the mosque's history. International visitors continued to make up the majority, accounting for 81% of the total, while 19% were residents of the United Arab Emirates.
Time Out Abu Dhabi
4 days ago
- Time Out Abu Dhabi
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque officially named 8th best tourist attraction in the world
Can we get a drumroll up in here? TripAdvisor's renowned list of Top 25 Tourist Attractions in the World just dropped and, yes, Abu Dhabi is storming ahead with two notable wins. It's official – Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the most loved landmarks on the planet. The stunning Abu Dhabi icon has just been named the number one attraction in the Middle East and eighth globally in TripAdvisor's 2025 Travellers' Choice Awards (climbing up two places from 2024's awards). Why? It has everything to do with how visitors feel. It's not just about the beauty (though yes, the domes are dazzling). It's about the whole experience – from the cultural tours and incredible exhibitions to the peaceful vibe that somehow cuts through even the busiest days. Why did Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque rank so highly? Credit: Adobe Express Because this recognition isn't just a shiny title – it reflects a whole range of upgrades and initiatives that are transforming the way visitors experience the mosque. You might also like: Escape the heat: 27 best things to do indoors this summer in Abu Dhabi We're talking immersive exhibitions, late-night access, serene jogging paths and even exclusive behind-the-scenes tours for those curious to see what goes on when the crowds go home. The visitor numbers are climbing too, with millions coming from around the world. In fact, international visitors now make up a whopping 82 percent of all guests. And it's not just tourists – the mosque has become a regular stop for global dignitaries, school groups, families and curious locals alike. So what's new for visitors? A lot, actually. Here's what's changing the game: Unseen Glimpses tours: Ride around in a private electric club car to hidden corners of the mosque you won't find on a regular visit. Sura evening experiences: The mosque is now accessible 24/7 for special evening visits – ideal for short-stay travellers or anyone wanting to explore in a more intimate setting. El-Delleel multimedia guides: Available in 14 languages (including sign language), so everyone can learn at their own pace. Interactive museum spaces: From the immersive Diya – A Universe of Light to the Light & Peace Museum, the mosque now pairs art and sound with history and heritage. Souq Al Jami' and jogging track: Pop into the on-site market, grab a bite and walk off your lunch with a lap around the mosque's serene jogging path. Stay tuned for more update too, because the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre is constantly levelling up – think art exhibitions, library talks, cultural performances and spaces like the Dome of Peace that mix tradition with technology. So, now that you'll no doubt be off for a visit, on thing to do while you're there? Take your time. Let the place surprise you. It's more than just a photo-op – it's a whole experience and clearly, the world is paying attention. His Excellency Dr. Yousif Al Obaidli, Director General of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre (SZGMC), said: 'The global recognition attained by Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi reflects the visionary leadership of the UAE. It is the outcome of the centre's strategic plan, which focuses on enhancing services and providing exceptional experiences for its guests. 'This success crowns a continuous series of outstanding initiatives and services offered throughout the year. These efforts have included the development of both cultural and physical infrastructure, enhancement of facilities, excellence in specialist staff, and the empowerment of Emirati youth by qualifying them to deliver cultural tours and host the mosque's diverse visitors through distinguished programmes that embody the mosque's civilisational message. 'These accomplishments open new horizons for the centre, through which we anticipate the future with strategies and plans that enable it to continue fulfilling its civilisational mission with greater efficiency. They also allow us to consistently enrich the guest experience through religious and cultural programmes, exhibitions, and initiatives that reflect the mosque's message – presented in innovative formats and a refined manner that meets aspirations and fulfils our vision.' More things to do in Abu Dhabi Everything happening in Abu Dhabi in 2025 From new openings to big events, this is shaping up to be quite a year Old Abu Dhabi: 15 best spots to uncover the history of the capital Peel back the layers of time Abu Dhabi's best restaurants: Everywhere you should eat at least once Your dinner inspo is sorted
Al Etihad
4 days ago
- Business
- Al Etihad
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque ranks 1st in Middle East and 8th globally in 2025 TripAdvisor report
8 Aug 2025 11:08 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (SZGM) in Abu Dhabi has achieved a new global milestone by advancing to higher ranks on the list of the world's most prominent landmarks, according to leading travel and tourism platform TripAdvisor's 2025 global the Top Attractions category, the SZGM ranked eighth globally among 25 distinguished landmarks, climbing two places from its 2024 ranking. It also retained its position as the number one attraction in the Middle East in this category, topping a list of the region's ten most iconic global ranking is based on a comprehensive analysis of more than eight million landmarks worldwide. It ranked within the top one per cent of all sites reviewed, reflecting its distinguished status both regionally and internationally, and reaffirming its leading role in promoting cultural tourism in the United Arab another notable accomplishment, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Fujairah was ranked among the top 10 per cent of landmarks worldwide, according to selections made by travellers from across the globe. This achievement is particularly remarkable given the recent activation of visitor services at the mosque. These milestones, achieved by both mosques, affirm their leadership as cultural destinations on the global tourism map. Both have become prominent international landmarks, drawing visitors from diverse cultures around the Excellency Dr. Yousif Al Obaidli, Director General of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre (SZGMC), said: 'The global recognition attained by Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi reflects the visionary leadership of the UAE. It is the outcome of the centre's strategic plan, which focuses on enhancing services and providing exceptional experiences for its guests. This success crowns a continuous series of outstanding initiatives and services offered throughout the year. These efforts have included the development of both cultural and physical infrastructure, enhancement of facilities, excellence in specialist staff, and the empowerment of Emirati youth by qualifying them to deliver cultural tours and host the mosque's diverse visitors through distinguished programmes that embody the mosque's civilisational message.'His Excellency added: 'These accomplishments open new horizons for the centre, through which we anticipate the future with strategies and plans that enable it to continue fulfilling its civilisational mission with greater efficiency. They also allow us to consistently enrich the guest experience through religious and cultural programmes, exhibitions, and initiatives that reflect the mosque's message - presented in innovative formats and a refined manner that meets aspirations and fulfils our vision.'The high international rankings achieved by SZGM in Abu Dhabi underscore its global distinction as a unique model among places of worship and cultural landmarks, serving as a benchmark in the region and beyond. Its role extends beyond that of a religious site hosting prayers and rituals - it stands out as a beacon of civilisation and culture, advancing the UAE's message of peaceful coexistence and SZGM also revives and celebrates the elements of Islamic civilisation, embodying a distinctive architectural representation of Islamic art and heritage. It has established itself as a singular cultural tourism destination, welcoming more than seven million visitors and worshippers annually from across the globe. Within its serene spaces, people of different cultures and faiths come together, forming a human tapestry framed by values of fraternity -within a sanctuary of peace and coexistence. Shared human values bind them, and the language of civilisational dialogue becomes the bridge through which they transcend all SZGMC is steadfast in its continuous development of diverse, integrated services across all its landmarks and facilities, maintaining the highest standards to meet the evolving needs of its guests. At the SZGM in Abu Dhabi, visitors can spend an entire day enjoying a wide array of offerings - from the visitor centre, which includes exhibition halls, an auditorium, and a library, to Souq Al Jami', featuring shops, recreational spaces, and restaurants catering to all age groups. These facilities offer moments of rest and enjoyment within a unique atmosphere, further complemented by the mosque's jogging track that invites community members of all backgrounds to engage in physical activity while taking in the breathtaking exterior views of the SZGMC operates under a strategic plan, implemented through a cohesive system led by highly skilled professionals across various disciplines. These national talents work to provide exceptional cultural experiences to visitors from around the world. Among the most distinguished of these are the cultural tours, which are delivered by a select group of Emirati Cultural Tour Specialists who represent the UAE's civilisational identity and promote its message of peace and to its prestigious global standing, the SZGM has become a key destination for high-level dignitaries visiting the UAE. Overseas visitors account for approximately 82 per cent of its total guests. In the first half of the current year, the SZGMC continued to expand its innovative services and experiences, contributing to a notable rise in visitor numbers. Among the most prominent offerings are the general cultural tours and the 'Unseen Glimpses' tours - guided experiences delivered aboard custom electric club cars that offer guests exclusive insights into areas previously unexplored by the experiences are part of an integrated set of high-standard services and activities, including Souq Al Jami, the mosque's jogging track, and the Sura evening tours, which grant visitors access to the mosque 24 hours a day. The Sura experience is designed for visitors to Abu Dhabi and the UAE who are on short transit stays or unable to visit during regular hours. It offers them an opportunity to witness aspects of the mosque not typically accessible during the day, such as scheduled maintenance and extraordinary cleaning SZGMC also provides El-Delleel, a multimedia device that offers immersive cultural tours in 14 international languages, including a dedicated sign language tour designed for guests who are deaf or have hearing impairments, as well as tailored tours for children -ensuring an inclusive visitor the SZGMC's continuous expansion in offering distinguished cultural experiences, the Dome of Peace at SZGM has emerged as a leading cultural destination in Abu Dhabi, providing visitors with a comprehensive and immersive journey that blends authenticity with innovation, all within a single, integrated SZGMC has played a pivotal role in reinforcing the SZGM's standing as a global hub for cultural dialogue, through diverse facilities that include the specialised Al Jami Library, a cultural auditorium, and a series of permanent and temporary exhibitions that spotlight ancient civilisations. Among the most notable exhibitions are Al-Andalus: History and Civilisation, Coins of Islam: History Revealed, Islamic Coins: Civilisational Testimonies, Artistic Characteristics – Elegant Calligraphy and Inspiring Features, and the Hajj: Memories of a Journey, exhibition. Additionally, the Light & Peace Museum offers a dynamic, interactive space that fuses art with knowledge, while the Diya – A Universe of Light immersive experience invites visitors on a sensory journey. Presented in a 360-degree format with sound, visual, and wind effects, the experience takes guests from a celestial realm illuminated by starlight to the very heart of the UAE's heritage, visually narrating the SZGM's enduring message of coexistence and peace.
