While Visiting Grand Mosque Abu Dhabi Dress Code & Manners

Mosques are revered places for Muslims, so you must follow a conservative dress style if you visit any mosque, especially the Grand Mosque. Both men and women must cover their arms and legs and avoid wearing skirts or shorts shorter than their ankles. Tight-fitting and transparent clothes are a big no-no when visiting the Grand Mosque. A headscarf will be given while entering, for females to cover their hair within the premises. You will have to take off your shoes before entering the building.

Attire that covers your body completely until your wrists and ankles are encouraged. Loose-fitting long pants or a maxi dress in a breathable fabric like cotton will do. These are some of the etiquettes that you need to keep in mind:

• Your arms and legs must be entirely covered.
• You must fully cover your hair.
• Your face, hands, and feet are the only areas of skin that can be visible.
• You will be directed to the changing room if you are not appropriately clothed (don't worry, most tourists fall into this category). Most tourists unwillingly fall into this category, so there is nothing to worry about. You can hire Abaya and Shayla from the changing room. The abaya is a dress which covers your entire body, and the Shayla covers your head. You can count this as an experience of dressing per the local culture.
• This doesn't permit you to dress however you want, as you will still have to wait in line with Muslim visitors, so be respectful the entire time you are in Abu Dhabi.

Men should also cover up and avoid wearing shorts! Choose full-length pants and thin shirts whenever possible. Plain clothing is preferred over t-shirts with designs and slogans. Although it's not usually required, you can be asked to take off your shoes before entering the mosque. But it's wise to be prepared in case you do!

• Men should wear long, fully-covered pants and sleeved shirts (at least elbow length).
• You will be required to change to a rented Kandura(free) in a dressing room if you wear shorts during your visit.

image Source : https://www.szgmc.gov.ae/en/mosque-manner

• Avoid smoking
• Never wear shoes inside a mosque. If a safe spot is available, you can remove these and leave them there. If not, place them in a tied bag and keep them by your side.
• The mosque is not a place to eat, therefore avoid doing so, especially during Ramadan (in public) and on regular days ( Etiquette and respect)
• Never take pictures of people without consent, as it is not permitted.
• Men aren't allowed entry into the ladies' prayer area.
• Put your phone on silent and refrain from putting loud music.
• Talk quietly, and ask older children to maintain silence or speak softly.
• Asa'lam ALeikum (Peace be Upon You) is an extremely revered greeting. Therefore people will take it to heart when you say it.