Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre Promotes UAE Values Through Cultural Exhibitions In Moscow

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre recently unveiled a mosque model, a mobile library, and the "Spaces of Light" photography exhibition at Moscow Cathedral Mosque. This initiative is part of the Centre's strategy to showcase the civilizational role of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque as an exceptional global place of worship, embodying the UAE’s values of tolerance and cultural exchange.

The inauguration was led by Dr Yousif Al Obaidli, Director-General of the Centre. It was attended by Dr. Mohammed Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Ambassador to Russia, and His Eminence Sheikh Rawi Ainuddin, Mufti of Russia. The event is part of the "Minarets of the Two Capitals" initiative under the "Jusoor" programme.

The mosque model's inauguration is a component of the Centre’s "Jusoor" programme, which aims to promote the UAE’s cultural image globally. Since 2012, over 21 mosque models have been displayed internationally. Notable locations include the UAE Embassy in Moscow and the Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia in Kuala Lumpur.

The mobile library showcased 27 publications from the Centre focusing on Arab and Islamic culture. These works highlight tolerance and coexistence—core principles embraced by the UAE and promoted worldwide. Meanwhile, the photography exhibition featured winning images from the "Spaces of Light" Photography Award.

Dr Yousif Al Obaidli delivered two lectures titled "Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: A Place for All and Creativity in Specialised Fields." The first lecture took place at Moscow State Institute of International Relations with students attending, including Emiratis. The second was held at Moscow State University with several university students present.

On this occasion, Dr Al Obaidli remarked that since its inception, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre has embodied values of tolerance and peace. He stated that it serves as a meeting point for diverse cultures worldwide. "By organising this programme in Moscow," he added, "the Centre reaffirms its civilisational role."

Strengthening Cultural Ties

Dr Al Jaber highlighted that Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan envisioned the Grand Mosque as a beacon of tolerance and beauty. "Today," he said, "we share this vision in Russia's capital at its iconic mosque." This architectural exchange conveys hope and dialogue through actions that build understanding among nations.

The delegation also visited prominent museums and cultural institutions in Moscow like Kremlin Museums and Museum of Oriental Art. Meetings were held with officials from these institutions to discuss enhancing collaboration between them and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre.

A Popular Landmark

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a leading landmark visited by Russian community members in the UAE. Since opening, it has welcomed approximately 2,914,000 Russian visitors; 293,667 visited in 2024 alone. This reflects its significance as a cultural bridge between nations.

With inputs from WAM