New Entry Fees Set for Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Sightseeing
The iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi is implementing a new fee structure for visitors arriving for sightseeing purposes. Starting September 20, 2026, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre will introduce specific charges for tourists and residents to help manage the site's immense popularity.
The New Pricing Structure
To ensure the site maintains its world-class standards of cleanliness and service while managing massive crowds, the following entry fees will apply:
- UAE Residents: AED 5 per person (a valid Emirates ID is required).
- International Tourists: AED 10 per person.
- Tour Operator Groups: AED 8 per person.
The new fees are intended to manage high visitor volumes and sustain the site's standards of service and cleanliness.
Worship Remains Free of Charge
It is important to note that the mosque continues to prioritize its religious function. Entry remains completely free for all individuals attending:
- Daily prayers
- Friday prayers
- Other scheduled religious activities
To ensure a respectful environment for worshippers, the centre has established dedicated pathways that separate those attending prayers from tourist groups.
Who is Exempt from the Fees?
The mosque has designated several categories of visitors who will not be required to pay the new entry fees:
- Visitors aged 60 and above.
- Children under the age of 3.
- People of determination.
Additionally, the mosque will continue to offer its free cultural tours. These sessions, lasting between 30 and 45 minutes, focus on the stunning Islamic architecture, intricate art, and the life and legacy of Sheikh Zayed.
Premium Experiences and Specialized Tours
For visitors looking to enhance their visit, several paid experiences are available:
- Light & Peace Museum and Diya 360-degree immersive show: These can be experienced individually for AED 25, or as a combined package for AED 40.
- Main Prayer Hall Tour: A specialized tour of the main prayer hall is available for AED 30, provided it is outside of scheduled prayer times.
Managing Millions of Visitors
The introduction of these fees follows a period of unprecedented visitor numbers. During the first half of 2026, the mosque hosted over 3.12 million guests. This includes a massive international turnout of more than 1.24 million visitors from countries such as India, China, Russia, the United States, and Germany. The site also remains a major destination for expatriate families from the Philippines, Pakistan, and India.
Planning Your Visit
To avoid any inconvenience, visitors are encouraged to reserve their tickets up to one month in advance through the official website at szgmc.gov.ae.
Operational Hours
Tourists should plan their visits according to the following schedule:
- Saturday to Thursday: 9:00 am to 8: