Global recognition

A UAE newspaper has said that it is hardly surprising that the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is Abu Dhabi’s most popular cultural attraction. Its majestic architecture and its wonderful sense of serenity have, after all, won the hearts of visitors from near and far.

In an editorial on Tuesday, The National said that the mosque has been ranked as the world’s second favourite landmark for the second year in succession by users of the travel website, TripAdvisor.

"Its ranking not only places it ahead of such famous landmarks as the Taj Mahal and the Eiffel Tower, it firmly entrenches Abu Dhabi’s place on the world cultural tourism map.

"Many of us are lucky enough to experience the wonder of the Grand Mosque every day, by visiting the site to worship or even, in a much smaller way, through the frame of a car window as we sweep past. There is no better time than Ramadan to visit this place of tolerance, love and mutual understanding, as it gathers worshippers of all nationalities to break their fast at sunset. We are fortunate to have such a special place on our doorstep," concluded the Abu Dhabi-based daily.