A guide to the stunning BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi
Over the years, the UAE has been home to a large Hindu community, many of whom have resided there for generations. While there are several Hindu temples in the UAE, mostly in Dubai, Abu Dhabi is the site of the first traditional stone temple. Let’s learn more about this Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi, including its location, facilities and architecture!
THE HINDU TEMPLE IN ABU DHABI – OVERVIEW
In September 2019, the temple became the first Hindu place of worship to receive an official licence in Abu Dhabi. It has a beautiful marble-and-sandstone shrine and a surrounding community centre complex.
The religious organisation BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha constructed the new Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi. The group has constructed more than 1,100 Hindu temples worldwide. Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi launched the project during a visit to the UAE in 2018.
CONSTRUCTION AND MATERIALS
The BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi is a magnificent architectural marvel. Built on 55,000 sq. m. of land, it is constructed according to ancient Sanskrit scriptures on architecture and design.
Taking inspiration from Hindu temples around the globe, the BAPS Hindu Mandir features seven spires representing each emirate and five grand domes. The temple was constructed using pink sandstone from Rajasthan, which is popular for its durability and ability to withstand temperatures as high as 50°C.
Artisans from India carved and sculpted sandstone spires and marble pillars, including intricate designs of nature and stories from ancient scriptures, all of which adorn the temple’s interior.
HINDU TEMPLE IN ABU DHABI LOCATION
The BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi is located in the Abu Mureikha area, along Al Taf Road (E16) and is accessible from the Abu Dhabi – Ghuweifat Highway (E11).
It is located approximately 30 minutes away from the main island by car and around 40 minutes from Jebel Ali, Dubai.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, gifted the land to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for Abu Dhabi’s first Hindu temple. An additional 55,000 sq. m. plot of land was also provided nearby for parking.
FACILITIES NEAR THE HINDU MANDIR IN ABU DHABI
Apart from offering a place of worship, the temple serves as a community centre for Hindu residents. It includes multiple facilities around the structure, including prayer halls, classrooms, play areas, sports courts and a food court.
The place of worship also serves as a cultural centre for people of other faiths to learn more about Hinduism and features a visitor’s centre, book and gift shop. The complex holds exhibitions as well.
HOW TO BOOK A VISIT
Please note that you must register with the temple before your visit. Unregistered guests may be denied entry. After the surge in visitations at the temple, it is mandatory to reserve your spot online.
To book your visit, go to the BAPS Hindu Mandir’s official website, click on the ‘Book Your Visit’ tab, and fill out the details to reserve your spot.
THINGS TO REMEMBER
Here are some things you should make a note of before visiting the mandir:
- All Visit-Groups with more than 10 people must book a group package to visit the temple.
- No external guides are allowed.
- Please be mindful of the temple’s dress code, which requires you to cover your body properly.
- A thorough security check is conducted at the entry. So, you may have to wait a little to pass through the metal detector gates and the luggage X-ray machine.
- Wheelchairs and other mobility aides are welcome at the temple. People of determination are given priority.
- Capturing videos or photos on mobile phones is allowed as long as it’s not for commercial use.
- Photography for journalistic purposes must be pre-approved by the mandir authorities. You can contact them at press@mandir.ae
FAQs ABOUT ABU DHABI HINDU TEMPLE
WHAT ARE THE ABU DHABI HINDU TEMPLE OPENING TIMINGS?
The timings for the temple are as follows:
- Tuesday to Sunday: 09:00 am – 08:00 pm
- Monday: Closed
WHEN DID BAPS MANDIR OPEN TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC?
The new Abu Dhabi Hindu Temple opened to the general public on 18th February 2024.
WHAT IS THE BAPS HINDU MANDIR IN ABU DHABI HEIGHT?
The height of the BAPS Mandir in Abu Dhabi is 108 ft.
IS THERE A GURUDWARA IN DUBAI?
Yes, you can visit the Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara in Dubai.
ARE PETS ALLOWED AT THE TEMPLE?
No, pets aren’t allowed.
That concludes our guide to the Hindu temple project in Abu Dhabi, a beautiful landmark. If you plan to visit Dubai, check out the Hindu Temple in Jebel Ali.
Note: Cover image is credited to BAPS Hindu Mandir, Abu Dhabi Facebook page.
