Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Soars to Top 10 Global Attractions
Abu Dhabi’s iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque has cemented its status as a global tourism landmark, securing the 8th position in Tripadvisor’s 2025 Travelers’ Choice Awards for the world’s top attractions. Furthermore, it proudly retained its title as the number one attraction in the Middle East, leading the region’s top 10 list.
This prestigious recognition, based on the analysis of reviews and ratings for over eight million global attractions, highlights the mosque’s immense appeal to both local residents and international visitors. Significantly, the mosque climbed two spots from its 2024 global ranking, placing it within an elite group of 25 outstanding landmarks worldwide. Tripadvisor also noted that the mosque ranks within the top 10% of all attractions globally based on traveler popularity.
The accolade comes amidst ongoing enhancements to the mosque’s visitor services and infrastructure. In 2025, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque continues to solidify its role as a major cultural hub, welcoming millions of guests, including high-profile visitors like former US President Donald Trump. The mosque attracts over seven million worshippers and tourists annually.
Youssef Al Obaidli, Director General of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, attributed this achievement to the mosque’s strategic focus on improving the visitor experience and developing unique cultural programming. “This success allows us to further enhance guest offerings and strengthen the mosque’s mission as a center for cultural dialogue and Islamic heritage,” Al Obaidli stated.
Beyond its primary function as a place of worship, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque complex functions as a significant cultural institution. It houses exhibition halls, a library, a dedicated cultural center, and shops. The mosque offers diverse guided tours, including unique themed routes and multimedia experiences available in 14 languages, alongside specialized programs designed for visitors with special needs.
Actively engaging in global cultural exchange, the mosque participates in international exhibitions and hosts temporary installations exploring Islamic history and past civilizations. This multifaceted approach, blending stunning architecture (noted for its gleaming white domes and intricate details) with deep cultural engagement and accessibility, underpins its reputation as a religious site of profound importance and a world-class cultural destination of universal significance. The Tripadvisor ranking serves as powerful international validation of its unique status.
Source: Khaleej Times
