Went to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque today. Arrived about 9.30 so there weren't too many people about and I was able to get a few good shots. It reminded me of the Taj Mahal the way it was so white and symmetrical. I had to enter through the male entrance on the left side if the mosque. With the female side being the right hand side. Both sides are identical with toilets underground and small prayer rooms and changing areas at the back. The place is spotless with dozens of cleaners constantly buffing the floors and polishing walls. They take a real pride in how well it looks.
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After walking round for a bit I saw no sign of a tour starting and so I made my way across the inner courtyard to the main prayer hall. Had to take off my shoes and store them outside before I could enter. There was a small porch area with an ornate chandelier before entering into the main room. It was carpeted and had 3 massive chandeliers hanging down from the domes of the mosque. By this stage is was starting to get very busy and there were tourists everywhere. I started thinking about how many people had been walking their grubby feet on the carpet I was on. I quickly stopped thinking about that. As I made my way round there was little opportunity for photos due to the volume of people and the small corded off area we were allowed in.
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After leaving the main prayer room I thought I'd walk round the outside to see if there were any unique views that were less touristy. There weren't, and all I achieved was ensuring that I was dripping with sweat. I went downstairs to the toilet and again had to take off my shoes and slip in to communal sandals (how many feet had been in these???) but at least it was cool. I took the opportunity to have a swig of my nice warm water from my bag while in the cubicle so as not to offend anyone. The toilet is now the place of choice if I want a drink at any time.
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I tried to go and see a bridge. I couldn't, there were no footpaths. I went to a shopping centre. It was crap, though I did manage to pick up some snacks and deodorant which i was in need of as I ran out yesterday. Taxi!!! Back to the hotel.
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Went down for a swim this afternoon. When you arrive you have to sign in with you name and room number. As I was signing in the guy on duty asked if I wrote in Arabic! I laughed. Swim was good cooled me down. Went for a wee walk around the block and took a few snaps, including the capital gate building, which is supposed to have the biggest lean in the world. Looked good.
It's now time for dinner, wonder what Judy has in store.