The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi has once again placed the UAE on the global cultural tourism map, earning 8th place worldwide and 1st place regionally in TripAdvisor’s 2025 ranking of the “Top Global Landmarks.” This prestigious recognition marks a two-place rise from its 2024 ranking and places the mosque in the top 1% of over eight million landmarks evaluated worldwide.
In addition, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Fujairah, part of the same cultural center, entered the top 10% of landmarks globally, an impressive feat considering its visitor services were introduced only recently.
A Symbol of Cultural and Religious Tourism
These achievements reflect the mosque’s growing role as a world-class cultural and spiritual destination, attracting millions of visitors annually. It is visited by people from all cultures and religions, offering a unique space where diversity meets under the shared values of peace and coexistence.
Dr. Yousef Al Obaidli, Director-General of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Center, credited this success to the UAE’s visionary leadership and the center’s strategic development plan, which focuses on enhancing infrastructure, upgrading facilities, and empowering Emirati youth to deliver enriching cultural tours.
Beyond Worship: A Global Cultural Beacon
The Abu Dhabi mosque is more than a place of worship. It stands as a cultural landmark, celebrating Islamic architecture while promoting the UAE’s message of harmony. Each year, it welcomes around 7 million guests from across the globe.
The dome also features a specialized library, cultural theater, rotating exhibitions, and the “Grand Mosque Market” with shops, restaurants, and leisure spaces, as well as a scenic jogging track around the mosque grounds.
Innovative Visitor Experiences
The mosque offers 24-hour cultural tours such as “Sura” for travelers on tight schedules, a multimedia guide in 14 languages, sign-language tours for the hearing-impaired, and specialized programs for children. Cultural night tours and behind-the-scenes experiences further enrich the visitor journey.
With 82% of visitors coming from abroad, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque has become a must-see destination for world leaders, tourists, and cultural enthusiasts alike, bridging civilizations and fostering dialogue through its architecture, exhibitions, and hospitality.
