The BAPS Hindu Mandir, located in Abu Dhabi, is a historic traditional hand-carved stone temple reflecting the peaceful coexistence of different cultures. Recently, the temple witnessed an increasing number of pre-registered visitors seeking to explore the beauty of the architectural masterpiece, build a spiritual connection, and offer prayers.
A mandir, synonymous with a church and a mosque, is a place of worship for the Hindus. They often gather at the temple to pray, seek spiritual guidance, and perform rituals.
Abu Dhabi's New Spiritual Landmark - What to Expect
A jaw-dropping masterpiece that cost a whopping $84.2 million to construct, the temple rises from the UAE’s desert landscape as a reflection of cultural and religious harmony.
The main temple stands at 32.9 meters tall, with a length of 79.8 meters and 54.8 meters wide. It has a capacity of 8,000 to 10,000 people per visit. Other facilities in the compound include a community center, prayer halls, an amphitheater, a children’s park/play area, and a library.
The BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi is the only one of its kind in the metropolis, and the first traditional Hindu stone temple in the whole of the Middle East. The magnificent temple has been built with sandstone and white marble, an inspiration said to have been taken from the ancient Hindu “Shilpa Shastras.” The carvings of the temple depict up to 250 tales of diverse cultural civilizations.
- The Organization Behind the Masterpiece
Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan (BAPS) Sanstha is a volunteer global Hindu organization dedicated to the promotion of humanitarian, social, and spiritual values. Several spiritual temples have been built around the globe, including this masterpiece in Abu Dhabi.
From Conception to Construction - The Rivers of Inspiration
The biggest Hindu temple in the Middle East was built as an emblem of peaceful communal coexistence and collaboration, with its spires representing the different emirates of the UAE. Within the temple’s walls, two streams of water are evident, each a representation of the rivers Yamuna and Ganga — two of Hinduism's holiest sources of water. The third river, Saraswati, a symbol of the goddess of knowledge and music, is seen as a light beam found at the temple’s base.
Its design also highlights 14 tales from past civilizations, including the Middle East and China — demonstrating that faith is indeed a universal concept.
When did the BAPS Temple Open?
The inauguration ceremony was held on February 14, 2024 and chaired by the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi. It became open to the public on February 18, 2024 — four days after the inauguration.
Who can Visit the BAPS Temple in Abu Dhabi?
The temple opens its doors to people of all faiths and cultural backgrounds from all over the globe. Residents of the UAE can visit the temple during opening hours, but will have to register before visiting. Unregistered guests will be denied entry. Foreigners are required to only book visits when they have arrived in the UAE. Additionally, all guests are required to present a physical government-issued ID, a Passport or Emirates ID, before entering.
Do You Require an Entry Fee to Visit the Temple?
The BAPS Hindu Mandir is open to all guests and doesn’t require an entry free. However, visitors are required to register on their official website or the Festival of Harmony application.
**BAPS Hindu Mandir Timings **
The BAPS Mandir timings are:
Monday – Closed
Tuesday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Ganga Aarti – Weekdays: 7:30 PM
Ganga Aarti – Weekends and Holidays: 6:45 PM, 7:30 PM
Always keep to the Abu Dhabi temple timings during visits or call their helpline to find out necessary information about visiting hours.
Where is the BAPS Hindu Mandir Located?
The temple is located on P6 Al Taf Road (E16), off Abu Dhabi–Dubai highway {Exit 366, Sheikh Maktoum Bin Rashid Road (E11)}.
It sits on 11 hectares of land donated by the government of the UAE — between Abu Dhabi and Dubai — an approximate 40-minute drive from Jebel Ali. From Abu Dhabi’s mainland, it’s only about 30 minutes away if you drive.
You can check Google Maps for directions, especially if you’re driving to the destination.
- Is there a Public Bus from any of the Emirates?
Currently, there’s no direct public bus transport to the temple. However, visitors can use public taxis or car rentals to get to the temple.
The Wonders of Architecture - The Fluidity of Faith
The BAPS Hindu Mandir is a historic landmark in the UAE Capital of Abu Dhabi. It welcomes thousands of guests from around the globe, allowing people from diverse religions and cultures to experience the religious practices of the Hindus. The destination’s unique architecture and carvings tell the tales of past civilizations, making it an amazing place to explore.
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