Abu Dhabi Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque New Entry Fees Explained
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre in Abu Dhabi has introduced a new entry fee structure for visitors, changing its previously free access policy on 17 September 2026. Here are the key details you need to know about the new ticket prices, free access rules, cultural experiences, and visiting hours:
- Residents with a valid Emirates ID pay AED 5
- Tourists from outside the UAE pay AED 10
- Tourists with registered tour operators pay AED 8
- Access stays free for worshippers, seniors aged 60 and older, and official delegations
New Ticket Prices and Free Access
Effective immediately, residents holding a valid Emirates ID are charged AED 5, while tourists visiting from outside the UAE are required to pay AED 10. Visitors arriving through registered tour operators are subject to a fee of AED 8. Access remains free for worshippers attending for prayer, visitors aged 60 and older, and official delegations, whose entry fees will be determined by the relevant authorities. This updated fee structure is officially listed on the SZGMC website and FAQ section.
Cultural Experiences and Tour Details
In addition to general entry, the centre has introduced paid cultural experiences, including the Light & Peace Museum for AED 25, the Diya immersive 360-degree experience for AED 25, or a combined ticket for both for AED 40. Guided cultural walk-in tours focusing on Islamic art and architecture continue to be offered free of charge, with a duration of 30 to 45 minutes; visitors are advised to arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled tour time.
Visiting Hours, Dress Code, and Visitor Stats
Visitor hours are set from 9:00 AM to 8:30 PM, Saturday through Thursday. On Fridays, the mosque is open from 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM, and from 2:30 PM to 8:30 PM. Sura Night Tours operate daily from 9:00 PM to 9:00 AM. Visitors are required to pre-book an access pass via the official website, https://www.szgmc.gov.ae. According to data from WAM cited by The National, the mosque welcomed 3,127,607 guests during the first half of 2026. Despite the new entry costs, the dress code remains unchanged: all visitors must adhere to modest clothing requirements, ensuring knees and shoulders are covered, with head covers required for women. The facility continues to provide abayas and scarves for those who arrive underdressed. Photo: Sifaat / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0). Garden view of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi.