The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi retains the top spot in the Middle East and rises to eighth globally in TripAdvisor’s 2025 rankings, reaffirming its role as a leading cultural tourism landmark.
ABU DHABI: The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (SZGM) in Abu Dhabi has reached a new milestone, securing the number one position in the Middle East and climbing to eighth place worldwide in TripAdvisor’s 2025 Top Attractions list. The ranking reflects a comprehensive analysis of over eight million landmarks globally, placing SZGM among the top one per cent of reviewed destinations.
The mosque’s enduring appeal lies not only in its architectural magnificence but also in its ability to serve as a beacon of cultural tourism in the UAE. Drawing more than seven million visitors annually, the site welcomes people from all walks of life, embodying values of peace, coexistence, and cultural dialogue.
Dr. Yousif Al Obaidli, Director-General of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre (SZGMC), attributed the success to strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing visitor experiences, including improved infrastructure, upgraded facilities, and specialist-led cultural tours. Emirati youth are also empowered through training programmes that qualify them to host visitors and share the mosque’s cultural message.
In addition to the Abu Dhabi landmark’s achievement, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Fujairah ranked among the top 10 per cent of global landmarks, despite its recent entry into the tourism scene. Both mosques now stand as prominent international destinations, drawing travellers from diverse cultural backgrounds.
Visitors to SZGM in Abu Dhabi can enjoy a host of facilities, including the visitor centre, Souq Al Jami’, jogging tracks, exhibitions, and innovative guided tours such as ‘Unseen Glimpses’. The Sura evening tours offer round-the-clock access, catering especially to transit visitors or those unable to visit during the day.
Special services include the El-Delleel multimedia guide available in 14 languages, including sign language, and tailored experiences for children, ensuring inclusivity for all. Exhibitions such as Al-Andalus: History and Civilisation and the immersive Diya – A Universe of Light continue to reinforce SZGM’s role as a global cultural hub.
With its growing international recognition, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque remains a model for blending faith, culture, and innovation, while promoting the UAE’s message of harmony to the world.
