The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi. ARCHIVE

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (SZGM) in Abu Dhabi has been named the number one landmark in the Middle East, according to TripAdvisor’s 2025 global report. The mosque retained its crown as the top attraction in the Middle East, leading a list of the region’s ten most iconic sites. It also ranked eighth best in the world,  cementing its reputation as one of the most iconic cultural and architectural destinations on the planet. In the Top Attractions category, SZGM climbed two spots from its 2024 global ranking to join the elite list of 25 distinguished landmarks. The ranking is based on TripAdvisor’s comprehensive analysis of over eight million reviews of landmarks worldwide, placing the mosque in the top one per cent of all reviewed sites. In a parallel achievement, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Fujairah also made global headlines by ranking among the top 10 per cent of landmarks worldwide. This recognition came soon after the activation of visitor services at the mosque, further highlighting the UAE’s cultural prominence.

‘A beacon of culture and coexistence’

Dr. Yousif Al Obaidli, Director-General of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre (SZGMC), credited the achievement to the UAE’s leadership and the Centre’s long-term strategy to enhance the visitor experience. “The global recognition attained by Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi reflects the visionary leadership of the UAE,” he said. “It is the outcome of the centre’s strategic plan, which focuses on enhancing services and providing exceptional experiences for its guests.” He added that the success stems from continuous development in cultural programming, infrastructure, and facilities, as well as empowering Emirati youth to host cultural tours that embody the mosque’s message of peace and civilisation. Welcoming over seven million visitors and worshippers annually, SZGM serves as more than a place of worship — it is a cultural bridge, bringing together people of different faiths and backgrounds in an atmosphere of peaceful coexistence. Its striking white domes, intricate Islamic architecture, and vast courtyards make it one of the most photographed sites in the UAE. Beyond its architectural splendour, the mosque offers a host of visitor experiences: • Cultural tours led by Emirati specialists • Souq Al Jami’ shopping and dining district • A jogging track for the community with scenic views of the mosque • Exhibitions highlighting Islamic art and history • Immersive experiences such as the Diya – A Universe of Light installation Overseas tourists make up about 82 percent of its total guests, and the mosque frequently hosts international dignitaries. New offerings like the ‘Unseen Glimpses’ club car tours and Sura evening tours provide exclusive and after-hours access, making it a must-visit for transit and short-stay visitors.

Fujairah’s rise on the global stage

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Fujairah, while smaller in scale, is fast becoming a cultural destination in its own right. Since launching visitor services, it has joined the ranks of the top 10 per cent of landmarks worldwide, signalling the growing appeal of UAE’s cultural sites outside the capital. ICA/Expat Media
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