Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque by MM212
In an epic construction not seen probably since the Taj Mahal, the new Grand Mosque of Abu Dhabi was completed in late 2007. It is officially called the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, after the late unifier and ruler of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Zayed Al Nahayan, who is buried within the mosque. No expense was spared in the construction of what is the world's largest mosque-mausoleum. It is said that it could hold up to 30,000 worshippers in its interior. I have only had a chance to see it from the exterior, but have seen photos online of the impressive interior. This multi-domed, white-marble-covered mosque contains the world's largest carpet (from Iran) and the largest chandelier (from Germany), as well as largest many other things from various parts of the world. The mosque is open to worshippers and tourists alike, but modest dress is required of men and women. It is located at the southern tip of the island of Abu Dhabi, right across from the newly opened Shangri-La Hotel & Resort. I hope to visit it on my next trip to Abu Dhabi.