Published on
August 9, 2025 |
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (SZGM) in Abu Dhabi has again received worldwide acclaim, moving two places to reach the eighth spot in the world among 25 renowned landmarks in TripAdvisor’s 2025 global travel report. This ranking marks the recognition of the mosque as a symbol of cultural importance, architectural beauty, and its increasing popularity as a world tourism destination.
Apart from securing its position on the global ranking, the mosque also held on to being the leading cultural landmark of the Middle East, further reinforcing its status as a reflection of the rich cultural heritage and architectural ingenuity of the UAE.
TripAdvisor’s “Top Attractions” Category: A Global Benchmark
The mosque’s rise in the rankings is part of TripAdvisor’s “Top Attractions” category, which evaluates over eight million landmarks worldwide based on traveler reviews and ratings. This achievement places SZGM in the top one percent of global attractions, showcasing its significance in the world’s tourism landscape.
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque has become a beacon of cultural tourism, attracting millions of visitors each year who come not only for its visual beauty but also to experience its serene atmosphere, inclusive spirit, and spiritual importance. Its distinctive white domes, reflective pools, and intricate Islamic artistry have made it one of the most recognized landmarks globally.
Fujairah’s Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Rising Star in UAE Tourism
Alongside the success of the Abu Dhabi mosque, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Fujairah has also made waves on the global stage. Despite being a relatively new addition to the UAE’s tourism offerings, the mosque has been ranked within the top 10 percent of global landmarks, thanks to its growing appeal among international tourists.
The Fujairah mosque’s success highlights the increasing prominence of the UAE as a cultural destination, with both mosques playing an integral role in promoting the country’s rich Islamic heritage to a global audience.
The Role of Visionary Leadership in Cultural Recognition
Dr. Yousif Al Obaidli, Director General of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre, attributed the recognition of both mosques to the UAE’s visionary leadership and the center’s strategic efforts to enhance visitor experiences. He emphasized that the success stems from years of consistent improvements in infrastructure, the development of skilled Emirati cultural tour guides, and a commitment to delivering exceptional visitor experiences that align with the mosque’s core message of peace, tolerance, and cross-cultural dialogue.
“This global recognition reflects our commitment to excellence,” Dr. Al Obaidli said. He further mentioned that the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre will continue to enhance its cultural engagement through programs, exhibitions, and interactive initiatives that reflect the mosque’s universal values.
Beyond Religion: The Mosque as a Global Symbol of Coexistence
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is more than just a religious site. It has become an iconic symbol of coexistence and interfaith dialogue, welcoming visitors from diverse backgrounds to appreciate Islamic culture and architecture. With over seven million visitors annually, the mosque has become a sanctuary where people from all walks of life come together to reflect, learn, and engage in cultural exchange.
The mosque’s educational initiatives and cultural programs have turned it into a platform for building bridges between cultures and religions, offering not only a place for worship but also for reflection and education. It plays a significant role in reviving and celebrating Islamic civilization while fostering understanding and peace across communities worldwide.
Future Strategies: Enhancing Visitor Engagement
Looking forward, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre plans to further enrich visitor engagement by expanding its interactive initiatives and cultural offerings. The focus will be on creating more immersive experiences that allow visitors to delve deeper into the mosque’s historical significance and spiritual importance.
Dr. Al Obaidli also mentioned that future developments would involve more exhibitions that highlight the mosque’s architectural journey, as well as more initiatives that promote cultural tourism in the region. These efforts are in line with the UAE’s broader strategy to enhance its standing as a global leader in cultural tourism.
A Symbol of Architectural Brilliance and Cultural Excellence
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi stands as a monumental achievement in Islamic architecture and a key element of the UAE’s national identity. Its growing international recognition, including its position on TripAdvisor’s 2025 list, underscores the mosque’s importance not only as a religious site but also as a central pillar in the UAE’s tourism and cultural diplomacy efforts.
As the mosque continues to attract millions of visitors from around the world, it remains a powerful symbol of Islamic heritage and modernity, offering a space where people can connect with the values of peace, tolerance, and unity.
Conclusion: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque as a Global Cultural Landmark
The dramatic climb of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in international tourism ranks is a testament to its architectural, spiritual, and cultural importance. By adopting its rich heritage with contemporary visitor contact approaches, the mosque has gained popularity as a necessity among tourists from across the globe. With its dedication to excellence and cultural inclusivity, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque will most certainly continue to be a focal point of international cultural tourism for decades to come.
