As the anticipation for Ramadan builds, Abu Dhabi’s iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque has finalized its preparations to welcome thousands of worshipers and visitors during the holy month.
With the first day of Ramadan expected to commence on March 11 this year, following the sighting of the Sheban crescent moon by the UAE’s International Astronomy Centre, the grand mosque gears up to host worshipers from across the globe.
Last year, the revered site of worship welcomed an impressive 684,945 guests, with a record-breaking number of over 60,000 worshipers visiting on the 27th night of Ramadan to observe Laylat Al Qadr.
To ensure a seamless and enriching experience for worshipers and visitors alike, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre has established specialized committees and teams dedicated to meeting the diverse needs of guests throughout the holy month.
An extensive volunteer network comprising 580 individuals, in collaboration with the Emirates Red Crescent, police officers, paramedics, and civil defense personnel, has been mobilized to provide assistance and support.
Moreover, the center has made provisions for transportation, with 70 electric cars available to ferry worshipers from parking areas to prayer halls, prioritizing the elderly and individuals with disabilities. Additionally, approximately 50,000 breakfast meals have been arranged for workers.
With a total of 8,379 parking spaces, including designated areas for women and those with disabilities, and ample seating arrangements comprising over 3,515 chairs and 50 wheelchairs, the mosque endeavors to accommodate all worshipers comfortably.
For added convenience, supplementary parking facilities have been arranged at Erth Hotel, Zayed Sports City, and adjacent to Wahat Al Karama. The mosque has also installed over 1,480 carpets for worshipers and ensured the thorough cleaning and sterilization of carpets within the mosque premises.
In a symbolic tradition, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre, in collaboration with the Ministry of Defence, will conduct cannon firing ceremonies daily throughout Ramadan to mark Iftar and announce the onset of Eid Al Fitr.
Ramadan holds profound significance for over 1.8 billion Muslims worldwide, commemorating the revelation of the Quran to Prophet Mohammed. Fasting during this sacred month, one of the Five Pillars of Islam, is mandatory for all Muslims in good health, fostering spiritual growth and community cohesion.
As Ramadan approaches, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque stands as a beacon of spirituality, unity, and cultural heritage, welcoming worshipers with open arms to partake in the blessings and rituals of this auspicious occasion.
