Glimpses of a gathering at Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque on Wednesday night have surfaced online, with residents and tourists describing the images as glorious. Scores of worshippers came together to participate in midnight prayers, which is considered to be one of the holiest periods of Ramadan.
The final ten nights of the sacred month hold deep religious significance for Muslims. Worshippers remain awake throughout the night, offering namaz (prayers) and reflecting on the moment when the first verses of the Quran were revealed to Prophet Mohammed.
This sacred night, known as Laylat Al Qadr or the Night of Destiny, is believed to be a time when prayers and wishes are granted. Many worshippers observe it on an odd-numbered night within the last ten days of Ramadan—on the 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, or 29th night—making this period especially meaningful.
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the UAE’s most iconic religious and cultural landmarks, serves as a spiritual hub during Ramadan. Thousands of worshippers gather each night to pray, reflect, and spend time with loved ones, while many also join communal iftars to break their fast together.
Midnight prayers at Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
To accommodate the large number of visitors during the final ten days of Ramadan, Abu Dhabi Mobility has introduced several initiatives to improve traffic flow and mobility around Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, especially during Taraweeh prayers and late-night gatherings.
Key Measures:
- Free Public Buses:
- 10 free buses now operate between Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Al Rabdan Bus Interchange throughout Ramadan.
- Ensures regular, safe, and smooth transportation for worshippers.
- Traffic Management:
- Digital surveillance cameras are deployed to monitor congestion and emergencies.
- Mobile electronic signs will guide visitors to designated parking areas.
- Fixed message boards (VMS) will display real-time directions for easier navigation.
- Increased Taxi Services:
- 100 taxis are allocated daily for mosque visitors.
- Extra taxis will be available during the final ten nights to handle peak demand.
These initiatives aim to provide a safe, efficient, and seamless experience for all worshippers visiting the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque during Ramadan.
