Abu Dhabi's Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque has introduced a paid entry policy for sightseeing visitors, ending its long-standing status as a completely free attraction for non-worshippers. Here are the key details you need to know about the new ticket prices, exemptions, and timings.
- UAE residents with a valid Emirates ID are charged AED 5 per person.
- International tourists must pay AED 10.
- Visitors arriving via tour operators are subject to an AED 8 fee.
- Access remains free for worshippers attending daily prayers, Friday prayers, and religious programs through dedicated gates.
Individuals aged 60 and above, children under three, and people of determination are exempt from the charges. All tickets must be pre-booked via the official Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre website at szgmc.gov.ae up to one month in advance.
Operating hours for visitors are Saturday to Thursday, 9:00 AM to 8:30 PM. On Fridays, the mosque is open from 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM and 2:30 PM to 8:30 PM, with tourist visits paused during Friday prayer services.
Complimentary 30-45 minute guided cultural tours focusing on Islamic architecture and art are available at 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 5:00 PM. The Centre has also introduced paid experiences, including the Light & Peace Museum and the immersive Diya 360-degree show, which cost AED 25 each or AED 40 as a combined package. A guided tour of the main prayer hall is priced at AED 30. According to official reports, the mosque hosted 3.12 million guests in the first half of 2026, including 1.24 million sightseeing visitors.
Officials stated that the fees are intended to manage crowd levels and support the maintenance of the marble complex. The policy shift impacts various Gulf expatriate communities who frequently visited the site as a destination for leisure and photography, though many residents continue to express interest in visiting due to the mosque's architectural significance.
