The construction phase
The construction of the mosque was completed in just 11 years, with costs amounting to approximately 545 million US dollars. The massive structure was officially opened in the month of Ramadan (September/October) 2007. With an area of 22,412m² (241,240.76 sq ft) and a capacity of up to 40,000 worshippers, the mosque is one of the largest mosques in the world. It is surrounded by a vast garden featuring 124 fountains and 41,000 trees.Cultures united in the structure
The mosque is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture and unites elements from different cultures and eras. It was built by an international team of craftsmen and showcases classic Mamluk, Ottoman, and Fatimid architectural styles. Inside, classical Middle Eastern arches and geometric shapes harmonize with modern, innovative design.
The impressive chandelier | Photo: Unsplash, Hana El ZohiryThe Namesake
The mosque was named after the first president of the United Arab Emirates, Scheich Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who also commissioned it. He wanted the mosque to be a place of tolerance and openness to people of all religions and cultures. His mortal remains are now buried in the inner courtyard of the mosque.
When the mosque shines in blue | Photo: Unsplash, Andrea CiprianoOnly precious materials
Thirty different types of precious white marble were required for the dream of 1001 nights due to the enormous surface area. A total of almost 22,500m² (5.55 acres - equivalent to 3 football fields) were used. The details of the mosque are also impressive, with fine flower patterns engraved into the walls and adorned with mother-of-pearl. The interior of the mosque is decorated in Arabic style with fine mosaics, marble tiles and calligraphy.Impressive dimensions
The centerpiece of the mosque is the main dome with a diameter of 32.2m (105.6 ft), adorned with gold leaf. The dome is surrounded by 40 smaller domes, which are also decorated with gold leaf. Most impressive, however, is the largest of the seven chandeliers, which has a diameter of 10m (32.8 ft), a height of 15m (49.2 ft), and a weight of 9.5t (9.35 tn.l.), making it the largest in the world.The play of light
The Sheikh Zayed Mosque is equipped with almost 19,000 lighting fixtures, around 600 of which are on the exterior. Additionally, there are 22 light towers around the mosque which shine onto the façade. This elaborate lighting allows the building to shine in color. During a full moon, the Sheikh Zayed Mosque glows in a radiant white. As the moon wanes, it turns bluer until it becomes white again as the moon waxes. During this time, it goes through 14 shades of blue and white, which are so subtle that they are barely perceptible to most people.