Abu dhabi: The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre in Abu Dhabi welcomed 3,127,607 guests during the first half of 2026, reinforcing its position as a global beacon that combines religious, cultural, and community missions while promoting the UAE's vision of tolerance, coexistence, and openness to the world.
According to Emirates News Agency, during this period, the Centre launched over ten landmark initiatives and programs, strengthening its cultural presence both locally and internationally. The guest count included 1,841,305 worshippers and fasting guests, 1,241,808 visitors from various nationalities, and 44,494 users of the Centre's recreational walking track. The Mosque saw 98,469 worshippers for Friday prayers, 229,139 for daily prayers, and 533,687 during Ramadan and Eid Al-Fitr. Notably, on the 27th night of Ramadan, 53,902 worshippers attended, with 8,056 for Tarawih prayers and 45,846 for Tahajjud prayers.
The "Our Fasting Guests" initiative, in collaboration with the Erth Zayed Philanthropies Foundation and Erth Hotel, distributed 2,605,810 Iftar meals, marking the highest distribution in its history. Of these, 980,010 were at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, 550,240 at the Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Grand Mosque in Al Ain, and 265,560 at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Fujairah.
During Eid Al-Adha, the Centre welcomed 96,565 guests, including 51,740 worshippers, 43,811 visitors, and 1,014 users of the walking track. The Centre's parking facilities accommodated 18,995 vehicles during this period. Statistics showed that 78% of the Mosque's visitors came from outside the UAE, with Asia leading at 52%, followed by Europe at 31%, and North America at 10%.
The Centre's Cultural Tour Specialists conducted 1,016 cultural tours, and the Centre hosted 403 official delegations, reflecting its global stature. Noteworthy initiatives included the "Manuscripts: Identity and Sustainable Development" exhibition, participation in KazanForum 2026, and the sixth season of the "Jusoor" Programme.
The Centre launched the "Diya" Photography Competition and initiatives like "Contributions of Muslim Scholars," showcasing the scientific achievements of Muslim scholars. It produced episodes highlighting eminent scholars and launched "Afnan," a social media platform featuring supplications and Qur'anic recitations.
The "Light and Peace" Museum and the "Diya Interactive Experience - A World of Light" enriched guest experiences, offering an immersive journey celebrating the UAE's cultural legacy. The Centre unveiled a curated display of museum artefacts through its exhibition rotation program, enhancing cultural sustainability.