Grand

Taking into consideration that I only had 2.5 days in Abu Dhabi, I made sure that at least I can visit its number one tourist attraction – Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. This could make my first visit in the Middle East memorable.

Here are some information about the mosque.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque was a dream in the heart of the Late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al-Nahyan "May God rest his Soul", where he established its general vision, set its foundation stone, and crowned thereby a journey full of fulfilled dreams and great achievements. The Mosque is an expression of a visionary leader who believed that nothing is impossible and conceived that the most gracious achievements start from the heart. more here 

Someone also documented the construction phase of the mosque. One can't help but be amazed by its progress and development from a skeletal foundation to an architectural masterpiece in the desert.

Abu Dhabi's most iconic landmark is the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, which features eighty-two white domes. Built between 1996 and 2007, it was designed to be an architectural wonder that incorporated both modern and classic Islamic artistic styles. Greek and Italian white marble covers the exterior, while Islamic calligraphy decorates the inside. more here

Songs in the Desert

songs in the desert
coming from a marbled heart
Arabian gem

golden chandelier
songs in the desert play
filtered through sandstorms

performers come, go
stage remains white, still plays six
songs in the desert

/totomai
for Poetry Pantry 240

I was definitely in awe as soon as I enter the Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque. I thought I have spoken "WOW" more than hundred times. The architecture is truly one of a kind, it was spectacular. But before you can enter the mosque, you are required to take off your footwear. The details on every corner are remarkable, from the domes, marble floors, walls, ceiling, to the carpets and chandeliers. Since this is a place for worship, some of the parts of the mosque are restricted and this is understandable. I need to show the photos in large to give this landmark justice.

Photography is allowed but be considerate. I believe tripods are prohibited. Also, there are certain rules to be strictly followed too. And no one is exempted. Again, let me emphasize that this is a place for worship. Visiting is free of charge and there are guides who are more than willing to explain and share the history and story behind it. Since the location is very accessible, maybe 20-30 mins by taxi or car from the city proper, it is highly recommended to visit it again at night. It’s like being in a different place. The lights are gorgeous and the water reflection is such a visual delight. Photographers take note. Another plus point in going there at night time is that there are lesser crowd. 

My stay in Abu Dhabi may be very short but I felt that I have stayed long enough. Hopefully next time, I can explore Abu Dhabi as a tourist with lots of free time in my hands. To all who are planning to visit UAE, Dubai may be the popular choice but if you have the chance to go to Abu Dhabi, please don't forget to visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. 

Shukran Abu Dhabi! 

/totomai

2015/02/20

Photos taken with Nikon D7000  (except the last photo, taken with iphone5s)
lenses used :  
     Nikkor 50 mm 1.4f
     Tamron 11-16mm 2.8f
     Nikkor fish-eye 10.5 2.8f