In an extraordinary display of cultural and spiritual appeal, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi has achieved a remarkable 31% increase in visitor numbers during the first half of 2024. This surge highlights the mosque’s growing prominence as a global destination for worship and cultural exploration.
A Stunning Growth in Attendance
According to recent statistics, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque welcomed an impressive 4,379,258 worshippers and visitors in the first six months of 2024. This figure marks a significant rise from the previous year, underscoring the mosque’s expanding role in attracting both local and international guests.
The breakdown of these numbers reveals a dynamic blend of visitors: 1,765,698 were worshippers and fasting individuals, while 2,584,425 were general visitors. Additionally, the mosque’s jogging track saw 29,135 users, reflecting the venue’s diverse appeal.
Record Attendance and Community Outreach
The mosque’s ability to accommodate vast numbers of worshippers was evident during peak periods. On the 27th of Ramadan, 1445 AH (April 5), the mosque recorded its highest-ever attendance, with 87,186 worshippers, including 70,680 who observed the critical 27th night of Ramadan.
In its commitment to community service, the mosque’s “Our Fasting Guests” project played a pivotal role. The centre prepared 2,150,000 iftar meals—650,001 within the mosque and 1.5 million distributed to labor cities in Abu Dhabi. Additionally, 30,000 suhoor meals were provided during Ramadan’s final ten days.
A Hub of Global Cultural Engagement
The mosque’s status as a global cultural icon is further underscored by its visitor demographics. Of the total visitors, 81% came from outside the UAE, with 19% being residents. Asia was the leading continent of origin, accounting for 52% of visitors, followed by Europe at 34%, North America at 7%, Africa and South America at 3% each, and Australia at 1%.
- India: 22% of the total visitor count
- China: 11% of the total visitor count
- Russia: 8% of the total visitor count
- Germany: 4% of the total visitor count
- USA: 4% of the total visitor count
- Several European nations: Additional contributors to the visitor count
Enriching Visitor Experiences
The mosque’s cultural tours have significantly enhanced the visitor experience. In the first half of 2024, the centre conducted 2,958 tours attended by 41,957 global visitors. It also hosted 823 official delegations, with 13,655 participants, including high-profile figures such as heads of state, vice presidents, prime ministers, parliamentary speakers, and ministers.
The introduction of experiences like the “Unseen Glimpse of the Mosque” tours and night cultural tours (Sura) has added unique dimensions to visitor engagement. These tours, offered in club cars and outside official hours, cater to those in transit or seeking an immersive experience. The “El-Delleel” service provides a 24-hour virtual tour in 14 languages, while “Souq Al-Jami’” offers a range of commercial and recreational activities, including dining and shopping options.
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque’s substantial increase in visitor numbers and its robust community outreach efforts are testaments to its growing global influence. By offering unparalleled cultural experiences and continuing its commitment to service, the mosque solidifies its position as a beacon of cultural and spiritual significance. As it attracts more visitors from around the world, the mosque remains a pivotal symbol of unity, tolerance, and world-class Islamic architecture.
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