The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre in Abu Dhabi has officially introduced a nominal entry fee structure for sightseeing visitors, effective as of September 17, 2026. The new policy mandates fees for non-worship purposes, while maintaining free access for those attending daily and Friday prayers.
- UAE residents with Emirates ID pay AED 5 per person
- International tourists pay AED 10 per person
- Organized tour groups pay AED 8 per person
- Free entry for worshippers, seniors 60 and above, children under 3, and People of Determination
The new policy mandates fees for non-worship purposes, while maintaining free access for those attending daily and Friday prayers. Under the new fee structure, UAE residents holding an Emirates ID are charged AED 5 per person, international tourists are charged AED 10 per person, and organized groups arriving through tour operators are charged AED 8 per person. Fees for official delegations will be determined by the relevant authority. Access remains free of charge for individuals attending prayers, visitors aged 60 and above, children under 3 years old, and People of Determination. The mosque has established dedicated entrances and paths for worshippers to ensure religious activities are not disrupted by sightseeing traffic.
Sightseeing visitors are encouraged to book tickets up to one month in advance via the official website, https://www.szgmc.gov.ae, though walk-in options remain available subject to peak-hour demand. Visiting hours for sightseeing are Saturday through Thursday from 9:00 AM to 8:30 PM, and Friday from 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM and 2:30 PM to 8:30 PM, with tourist visits suspended during Friday prayer times. Complimentary 30-to-45-minute cultural tours led by official guides remain available. Additionally, optional paid experiences are offered, including the Light & Peace Museum (AED 25), the Diya 360-degree immersive experience (AED 25), a combined museum and Diya ticket (AED 40), and special tours of the main prayer hall (approximately AED 30).
In the first half of 2026, the mosque hosted over 3.127 million guests, including 1.841 million worshippers and Iftar guests, and 1.241 million sightseeing visitors. The centre stated that the nominal fees were introduced to support crowd control and sustain service quality.
Visitors are reminded to adhere to the established modest dress code, and expats are advised to carry their Emirates ID cards for verification.