EU Council President Visits Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

António Costa, the President of the European Council, paid an official visit to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi. He was accompanied by Lucie Berger, Ambassador of the European Union to the United Arab Emirates, along with a number of senior European Union officials. The visit formed part of his broader engagement in the UAE to strengthen diplomatic, cultural, and international cooperation between Europe and the Arab world.

During the visit, President Costa and the accompanying delegation toured the mosque’s vast courtyards, domes, and grand halls. They were introduced to the history of the mosque’s foundation, its architectural significance, and the vision behind its creation. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is not only one of the largest mosques in the world but also one of the most symbolic, representing a place where culture, religion, and art unite harmoniously.

The tour also highlighted the values of coexistence, tolerance, and openness upon which the mosque was established. These principles are deeply rooted in the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Founding Father of the UAE. The mosque stands as a beacon of peace and understanding, welcoming millions of visitors from all faiths and backgrounds every year. President Costa expressed admiration for how the UAE has successfully built a national identity centered on unity, diversity, and dialogue between cultures.

The delegation was guided by Mahra Al Dhaheri, a cultural tour specialist from the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre. She gave a detailed explanation of the mosque’s artistic and architectural elements, pointing out how various Islamic civilisations influenced its design over centuries. The intricate craftsmanship, the symmetry of its patterns, and the elegance of its materials reflect the deep artistic heritage of the Islamic world.

Ms. Al Dhaheri explained that the mosque’s architecture is a remarkable example of how different artistic traditions can come together in harmony. The structure incorporates elements from Persian, Mughal, Moorish, and Ottoman designs, symbolising unity through diversity. The marble domes, hand-carved calligraphy, gold-plated chandeliers, and reflective pools around the mosque create a space that celebrates creativity and spiritual beauty.

At the end of his visit, President Costa was presented with a commemorative gift that captured the spirit of the mosque. The gift was a beautifully crafted compass inspired by the design of the mosque’s chandeliers, symbolising guidance, direction, and enlightenment. He also received a copy of the publication titled “Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Lights of Peace”, which showcases the mosque’s architectural magnificence through award-winning photographs from the “Spaces of Light” competition.

The visit of the European Council President underscores the growing relationship between the European Union and the United Arab Emirates. Beyond politics and economics, cultural diplomacy plays an essential role in deepening mutual understanding between nations. By visiting one of the UAE’s most significant cultural and religious landmarks, President Costa highlighted Europe’s appreciation of the UAE’s role in promoting peace and intercultural respect.

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque serves not only as a place of worship but also as a centre for learning and cultural exchange. It welcomes people of all nationalities and faiths, encouraging dialogue and respect among diverse communities. The mosque’s exhibitions, tours, and publications have made it a global destination for those who seek to understand the beauty of Islamic architecture and the universal values of peace and coexistence.

During the visit, discussions between European officials and Emirati hosts revolved around shared values such as peace, sustainability, and cultural understanding. The visit was seen as a reaffirmation of the importance of mutual respect between nations and the role of cultural heritage in building stronger international partnerships. President Costa’s presence at the mosque symbolised the EU’s recognition of the UAE’s contributions to global dialogue and interfaith harmony.

The visit concluded with expressions of gratitude and mutual admiration. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre officials extended appreciation to the President and his delegation for their visit, noting that such exchanges help strengthen global ties built on understanding and cooperation. As the delegation departed, the experience stood as a lasting reminder of the shared values that unite people across continents — respect, tolerance, and the pursuit of peace.