Highlights of the Day
On Day 5 of our Middle East journey, we drove from Dubai to Abu Dhabi and visited two of its most iconic landmarks: the breathtaking Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the majestic Qasr Al Watan, the UAE Presidential Palace. From white marble domes to gold-adorned halls, Abu Dhabi offered a regal contrast to Dubai’s futuristic vibe. This day was a journey from bold innovation to cultural elegance.
Logistics
Accommodation: Abu Dhabi Marriott Hotel Al Forsan
Transportation: Rental Car
🚗 Leaving Dubai – A City That Builds the Impossible
Today we left the futuristic city of Dubai and drove to the capital of the UAE, Abu Dhabi.
What impressed me most about Dubai is its relentless spirit.
From a small desert fishing village to a world-famous metropolis, Dubai is the ultimate example of “We don’t wait for opportunities—we create them.”
Artificial islands? Flying taxis? They did it first—and boldly.
🏜️ Desert Highway – Sand, Wind, and a Touch of Green
The drive from Dubai to Abu Dhabi takes just over an hour.
Along the highway, the desert stretches endlessly with scattered trees barely holding the sand.
Each gust of wind kicks up a swirl of dust, reminding us how fragile the landscape is.
We noticed something special: drip irrigation pipes lining the roads—this Israeli-developed water-saving technology is now widely used in the Middle East to grow vegetation in the harsh desert climate.
🕌 Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque – A White Marble Masterpiece
Our first stop in Abu Dhabi was the stunning Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the largest and most extravagant mosques in the world:
- Covers more than 22,000 square meters
- Accommodates up to 40,000 worshippers
- Houses the world’s largest hand-woven Persian carpet
- Features a 12-ton chandelier made of Swarovski crystals and 24-karat gold
✅ Admission is free, but advance booking is required
✅ Modest dress is mandatory; women must wear a headscarf. Free abayas are available at the entrance
We arrived just 30 minutes before our reserved time and thought we might have to skip lunch—but right across the street was a large modern mall, complete with a food court offering everything from local dishes to international fast food. It was a pleasant surprise and showed how welcoming Abu Dhabi is to travelers.
✨ A Grand Entrance – Where Art Meets Devotion
Before even stepping into the main prayer hall of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, you’re greeted by an entrance that feels like a scene from a dream. The soaring golden arches, the intricate floral mosaics climbing the white marble walls, and the shimmering chandelier above all work together to create an atmosphere of sacred elegance. The floor beneath your feet is inlaid with delicate floral patterns that reflect the walls—almost as if you’re walking inside a blooming garden made of stone and light. This space alone invites visitors to pause, breathe, and soak in the beauty of craftsmanship devoted entirely to faith and beauty.
💎 A Carpet of Record and a Chandelier of Light
Inside the main prayer hall of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque lies two global masterpieces: the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet and one of the largest chandeliers ever made. The Persian carpet, stretching over 5,600 square meters, was hand-woven by more than 1,200 artisans and features an intricate floral design that mirrors the calm symmetry of the mosque. Above it hangs a dazzling 12-ton chandelier made from Swarovski crystals, gold-plated brass, and stained glass. Its delicate yet monumental form fills the hall with a golden glow. Standing beneath it, you feel both the grandeur of human craftsmanship and the serenity of sacred space—a combination that leaves a lasting impression long after you step outside.
🏛️ Qasr Al Watan – The Palace of the Nation
Next, we visited Qasr Al Watan, the UAE’s presidential palace—also known as the “Palace of the Nation.”
Though it’s an official government building, it opened to the public in 2019 and truly feels like a modern-day palace:
- The central dome soars 60 meters high
- Every corner is adorned with golden mosaics, marble columns, and intricate Islamic designs
- Crystal chandeliers sparkle across the ceilings, and stained-glass windows paint the halls with soft light
The architecture of Qasr Al Watan is a magnificent blend of Islamic artistry and modern design. From the graceful arches and perfectly symmetrical corridors to the intricate geometric patterns on the floor and ceiling, every angle reflects harmony and elegance. The use of white marble, gold accents, and majestic domes creates a space that feels both royal and serene. Walking through these archways feels like entering a world where tradition meets timeless beauty—an experience that’s just as photogenic as it is awe-inspiring.
🔠 “The Power of Words” – A Sculpture That Speaks Beyond Gold
Among the many highlights of Qasr Al Watan, one that truly stands out is the massive hollow sculpture crafted from golden Arabic calligraphy, titled “The Power of Words.” Created by Emirati artist Mattar Bin Lahej, the piece is more than an artistic centerpiece—it embodies the vision of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father of the UAE. The interwoven script features one of his most powerful quotes: “Wealth is not money or oil; wealth lies in people and it is worthless if not dedicated to serving the people.” Visitors can walk inside the sculpture, making the experience immersive and reflective. It’s a powerful reminder that leadership, when rooted in wisdom and humanity, has a timeless voice. Through its elegant script and meaningful message, the sculpture bridges culture, language, and identity—all within a single golden embrace.
🗣️ House of Knowledge – A Space for Dialogue and Legacy
Inside Qasr Al Watan, we came across a striking space that looked almost like a mini United Nations assembly—several sleek, mirrored podiums lined up beneath ornate arches. This is part of the House of Knowledge, where the UAE showcases its dedication to scholarship, diplomacy, and the written word. The interactive displays behind each podium offer visitors access to digital archives of historical manuscripts, religious texts, and philosophical works—many translated into multiple languages. Standing behind one of the podiums felt symbolic, as if each person were stepping into the role of a global voice, honoring the palace’s core message: knowledge is power, and sharing it builds bridges.
A group of visitors were standing behind each desk — it reminded me of a United Nations meeting, so I quickly snapped a photo.
🌆 Abu Dhabi Skyline – A Perfect Photo Spot
Just outside the palace, there’s a stunning spot where you can capture the beauty of Abu Dhabi’s modern skyline. With palm trees, fountains, and iconic high-rises in the background, it’s the perfect place for a photo that blends elegance and urban charm.
🌇 Abu Dhabi’s Unique Charm – Regal and Serene
While Dubai is bold and fast-paced, Abu Dhabi feels calm, noble, and deeply rooted in culture.
If Dubai is the fearless young innovator, then Abu Dhabi is the wise elder—elegant, composed, and proud of its heritage.
🌍 What’s Next?
Stay tuned for Day 6 as we continue explore Abu Dhabi!
Have you ever visited Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque? What part amazed you the most?
Share your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear them!
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