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Temples #12 in Al Ain

Sheikha Salama Mosque

4.8 · 855 reviews
A quiet and solemn place for reflection.
6QF8+5QV Sheikha Salama Mosque - Zayed Bin Sultan St - Central District - Hai Al Salama - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Interesting facts
1

The mosque is named in honor of Sheikha Salama bint Butti, the mother of the UAE's founding father.

2

The architectural design was intentionally created to serve as a visual gateway to the Al Ain city center.

3

It is one of the few mosques in the region that features a distinctively modern, rather than classical, geometric interpretation of Islamic minaret design.

4

The mosque's capacity allows it to host large-scale community prayer gatherings during major Islamic holidays.

Overview

The Sheikha Salama Mosque is one of the largest mosques in Al Ain, capable of accommodating over 3,000 worshippers. The architectural design features a blend of traditional Islamic motifs and contemporary engineering, notably its distinctive blue-tiled dome and twin minarets. It serves as a significant landmark in the city's Central District, frequently serving as a focal point for the local Muslim community. The structure was commissioned to honor the mother of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Its exterior facade is primarily constructed from white stone, contrasting with the surrounding urban landscape. The site includes extensive landscaped courtyards and dedicated prayer halls for both men and women. The facility is equipped with modern lighting systems that illuminate the exterior minarets after sunset.

Photo spot

From the exterior courtyard facing the front entrance to capture the symmetry of the main dome and the twin minarets.

Insider tips

Respect prayer times by avoiding entrance when the call to prayer is being broadcast.

Visit during the early evening to see the minarets illuminated against the night sky.

Ensure you are prepared to walk across open marble courtyards which can become warm under the sun.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to enter the main prayer hall during active prayer sessions. Avoid photographing individuals during their prayers.

Etiquette

Visitors must wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees; women must cover their hair. Remove shoes before entering prayer halls and maintain a quiet, respectful demeanor.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
30-45 minutes
Best time to visit
Late afternoon during the cooler winter months (November to February) to enjoy the exterior architecture comfortably.
Address
6QF8+5QV Sheikha Salama Mosque - Zayed Bin Sultan St - Central District - Hai Al Salama - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
24.223, 55.767
Get directions
Details
Architectural StyleModern Islamic with traditional geometric influences
CapacityOver 3,000 worshippers

Frequently asked

Plan for about 30-45 minutes to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late afternoon during the cooler winter months (November to February) to enjoy the exterior architecture comfortably..

From the exterior courtyard facing the front entrance to capture the symmetry of the main dome and the twin minarets.

Close by you'll find Al Ain Oasis, Al Jahili Park, Al Ain Palace Museum.