UAE Grand Mosques Intensify Preparations for Ramadan's Climactic Nights
As the holy month of Ramadan draws to a close, worshippers across the United Arab Emirates are preparing for profound spiritual journeys to major religious sites. In anticipation of massive gatherings, authorities have significantly amplified safety and comfort measures at key mosques, aiming to facilitate a peaceful and devotional atmosphere for thousands of attendees.
Enhanced Readiness Across Major UAE Mosques
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre has bolstered preparations at all its affiliated landmarks, including the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, the Sheikh Khalifa Grand Mosque in Al Ain, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Fujairah, and the Sheikh Khalifa Grand Mosque in Ras Al Khaimah. The primary objective is to provide visitors with a serene environment conducive to daily prayers, especially during the blessed final days of Ramadan.
Historically, the 27th night of Ramadan has witnessed extraordinary turnout, with recent years seeing over 70,000 people congregating in a single evening. To honor this tradition, the centre is reviving spiritual rituals by conducting Taraweeh and Tahajjud prayers. Tahajjud prayers are scheduled daily at midnight, led by esteemed imams such as Idris Abkar, Yahya Aishan, Alaa Al Mizjaji, Abdullah Al Baloushi, and Abdulbasit Abdulsamad, alongside reciter Raad Al Kurdi.
Live broadcasts of these prayers are available daily via the centre's official YouTube channel, Instagram account, and television partnerships with Abu Dhabi TV and Fujairah TV, allowing global participation.
Comprehensive Transport and Parking Solutions
To ensure seamless access, the centre has allocated extensive parking facilities. At the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, more than 8,000 parking spaces are available, including 1,500 designated for women and over 60 for People of Determination. Additional parking is provided near Wahat Al Karama, ADNEC, and Zayed Sports City.
Similarly, the Sheikh Khalifa Grand Mosque in Al Ain offers 2,176 parking spaces, with 28 reserved for People of Determination, while the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Fujairah provides over 2,000 spaces. Detailed videos explaining parking zones and access gates have been shared on the centre's social media platforms to guide visitors efficiently.
Expanded Public Transport and Traffic Management
The Integrated Transport Centre (ITC), affiliated with the Department of Municipalities and Transport in Abu Dhabi, has intensified traffic monitoring and expanded services throughout Ramadan. Approximately 100 taxis are assigned daily, with additional vehicles deployed during the last 10 nights when visitor numbers peak. Dedicated pick-up and drop-off zones have been established in coordination with mosque management, supported by on-site inspectors and transport coordinators.
Public bus services have been reinforced to manage elevated traffic. Route Q3 now operates larger buses with a capacity of up to 85 passengers, and during evening hours, two extra buses and around 60 additional trips are scheduled between Rabdan Bus Station and the mosque. Three buses also transport passengers to suburban areas, reducing wait times. Adjustments to routes X5, 54, 44, and 23 include direct stops at the mosque, with 27 extra evening trips added.
Traffic patrolling is intensified during iftar hours and late-night prayers, utilizing an integrated management system, surveillance cameras, and Variable Message Signs to assist motorists. Road service patrols and towing teams are on standby for quick response to incidents.
Additional Amenities for Visitor Comfort and Safety
Beyond transport, authorities have implemented numerous initiatives to enhance the indoor and outdoor experience. The centre has supplied approximately 1,500 prayer rugs for outdoor areas and over 30,000 disposable prayer mats around the colonnades.
For accessibility, 70 electric carts are designated for People of Determination and the elderly, transporting them from parking areas to prayer halls. This is complemented by 3,515 comfortable seats and more than 50 wheelchairs. To safeguard children, identification wristbands are available at information points to help locate guardians if needed.
Emergency preparedness includes stationed ambulances, a field hospital, and civil defence teams to address any incidents promptly. These comprehensive measures aim to ensure a smooth and memorable experience for worshippers, reinforcing the UAE's reputation for hosting some of the largest Ramadan prayer gatherings in the region.
