The largest mosque in the UAE and one of the largest in the world, able to accommodate over 40,000 worshippers. Completed in 2007 and named for the country's founding ruler, it was built in white Macedonian marble inlaid with semi-precious stones — lapis lazuli, mother-of-pearl, jasper, amethyst — laid into floral arabesques across the courtyards.
The main prayer hall holds the world's largest hand-knotted carpet and seven Swarovski crystal chandeliers, the largest of which weighs nearly twelve tonnes. Reflecting pools double the architecture in the still air. Entry is free; modest dress required and provided at the entrance. Visit at dusk to see the marble shift colour with the changing light, or at the call to maghrib prayer for the full atmosphere.