A guide to the stunning BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi
Over the years, the UAE has become home to a large Hindu community, many of whom have resided there for generations. These residents have chosen to make the UAE their home because of its opportunities, security and religious tolerance.
While there are several Hindu temples in Dubai, the UAE capital is now home to the world’s first Hindu stone temple! Let’s learn more about the Abu Dhabi Hindu Temple, including its location, facilities and architecture!
THE NEW 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, conducted the construction of the new Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi. The group has constructed more than 1,100 Hindu temples across the globe. Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, launched the project during a visit to the UAE in 2018.
Construction and Materials
The new BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi is a magnificent traditional temple and an 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 across the globe, the BAPS Hindu Mandir features seven spires representing each emirate and five grand domes. Pink sandstone from Rajasthan is used in the BAPS Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi. This material is popular for its durability and ability, ideal 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.
NEW 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).
The location of the new temple in Abu Dhabi is 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 near the Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi location for parking.
FACILITIES NEAR THE NEW HINDU TEMPLE 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 also holds exhibitions.
THINGS TO REMEMBER
Here are some things you should make a note of before visiting the mandir.
- You are required to register with the temple before your visit. Unregistered guests may be denied entry.
- 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 HINDU TEMPLE IN ABU DHABI
What are the timings for the BAPS Hindu Mandir?
The timings for the temple are as follows:
- Tuesday to Sunday: 09:00 am – 08:00 pm
- Monday: Closed
When was the new Abu Dhabi Hindu Temple 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 Hindu Temple 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 visit Dubai, check out the Hindu Temple in Jebel Ali.
Note: Cover image is credited to BAPS Hindu Mandir, Abu Dhabi Facebook page.