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BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi
Abu Mureikha, off E11 Sheikh Zayed Road, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi opened on 14 February 2024 as the Middle East’s first hand-carved Hindu stone temple, rising 108 feet above the desert with seven shikhara spires representing the UAE’s seven emirates, 262-foot length, 180-foot breadth, and more than 25,000 carved stone blocks assembled without structural steel ([1][2]). 700 artisans in Rajasthan sculpted motifs of Hindu epics, Arabian falcons, regional wildlife, and global civilizations before the stones were shipped via 700 containers, 3D scanned, tested in seismic rigs, and set on site by 2,000 volunteers and engineers. Daily operations run 6:00 AM-9:00 PM with mangala arti, guided tours in English, Arabic, and Hindi, an immersive Param Satya Darshan show in the experiential gallery, and annadhanam in the vegetarian food court. The 27-acre campus accommodates 15,000 visitors per hour during peak festivals through QR-based slot booking, shaded queue canopies, hydration stations, prayer halls for each deity, and an interfaith courtyard adjoining the “Tolerance Bridge.” The mandir’s cultural centre hosts STEAM classrooms, long-term UAE history exhibits, medical camps, and youth leadership academies. The visitor route culminates in thematic gardens with ghats, riparian wetlands, mangroves, and desert flora illustrating sustainability partnerships with the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi ([1][3]).
Year Built
2024 CE
Period
Contemporary
Architectural Style
Nagara and Dravidian Hybrid Stone Temple Architecture with Middle Eastern Motifs
Built By
Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS)
Material Used
Pink Sandstone from Rajasthan, Italian Carrara Marble, Granite Plinths, Lime Mortar, Copper Kalashas, Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete for service blocks, Timber for doors
Heritage Status
Recognised as Cultural Project of the Year (MEED 2024) and House of Worship Project of the Year (MONDO-DR 2025); highlighted in UAE’s Year of Sustainability programming.
BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi
overview
Overview data: 94% complete
Heritage Overview
Temple
BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi
BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi opened on 14 February 2024 as the Middle East’s first hand-carved Hindu stone temple, rising 108 feet above the desert with seven shikhara spires representing the UAE’s seven emirates, 262-foot length, 180-foot breadth, and more than 25,000 carved stone blocks assembled without structural steel ([1][2]). 700 artisans in Rajasthan sculpted motifs of Hindu epics, Arabian falcons, regional wildlife, and global civilizations before the stones were shipped via 700 containers, 3D scanned, tested in seismic rigs, and set on site by 2,000 volunteers and engineers. Daily operations run 6:00 AM-9:00 PM with mangala arti, guided tours in English, Arabic, and Hindi, an immersive Param Satya Darshan show in the experiential gallery, and annadhanam in the vegetarian food court. The 27-acre campus accommodates 15,000 visitors per hour during peak festivals through QR-based slot booking, shaded queue canopies, hydration stations, prayer halls for each deity, and an interfaith courtyard adjoining the “Tolerance Bridge.” The mandir’s cultural centre hosts STEAM classrooms, long-term UAE history exhibits, medical camps, and youth leadership academies. The visitor route culminates in thematic gardens with ghats, riparian wetlands, mangroves, and desert flora illustrating sustainability partnerships with the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi ([1][3]).
Location
Abu Mureikha, off E11 Sheikh Zayed Road, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates(Abu Dhabi)
Year Built
2024 CE
Heritage Status
Recognised as Cultural Project of the Year (MEED 2024) and House of Worship Project of the Year (MONDO-DR 2025); highlighted in UAE’s Year of Sustainability programming.
Visit Information
Visiting Hours
Daily 6:00 AM-9:00 PM; mandir darshan slots via mandir.ae; artis at 6:30 AM, 11:30 AM, 7:30 PM; experiential gallery tours every 30 minutes 10:00 AM-7:00 PM; cultural campus closed Mondays for maintenance ([1]).
Entry Fee
General darshan free; experiential gallery AED 30; special puja bookings AED 151; parking free with pre-registration; guided tours (groups ≥15) AED 50 per guest; donations encouraged for seva projects ([1]).
Website
https://mandir.ae/Citation References
Experience the Mandir
BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu DhabiAccessed 2025-11-09
Abu Dhabi opens first traditional Hindu stone temple
The NationalAccessed 2025-11-09
Inside the BAPS Hindu Mandir: sustainability, technology and seva
Gulf NewsAccessed 2025-11-09
Heritage Status
Recognised as Cultural Project of the Year (MEED 2024) and House of Worship Project of the Year (MONDO-DR 2025); highlighted in UAE’s Year of Sustainability programming.
Preservation Status
Excellent; 2025 inspections show pristine sandstone, functioning drainage, healthy landscaping, and high visitor satisfaction; digital twin records any stone settlement for proactive maintenance ([3]).
Historical Context
Concept announced 2017; foundation ceremony April 2019; stone carving completed 2020-2023; first raft pour December 2020; domes closed 2023; inauguration led by Indian PM Narendra Modi and UAE dignitaries 14 February 2024; public opening 1 March 2024; 2.2 million visitors recorded by October 2024. The site hosts interfaith dialogues, education exchanges with NYU Abu Dhabi, and humanitarian drives with Red Crescent ([2][3]).
Architectural Details
Nagara and Dravidian Hybrid Stone Temple Architecture with Middle Eastern Motifs
Contemporary
Built by
Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS)
Materials
Pink Sandstone from Rajasthan, Italian Carrara Marble, Granite Plinths, Lime Mortar, Copper Kalashas, Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete for service blocks, Timber for doors
Dimensions
Height32.9m
Width180m
Length262m
Area10935m²
Location Map
Featured Images
Restoration Work
Ongoing works include 2025 installation of additional solar shading, museum curation updates, and stone surface cleaning protocols using low-pressure mist; experiential show hardware receives quarterly maintenance. No major restorations yet due to new construction.
Patronage
Ministry of Tolerance and Coexistence, UAE; BAPS global devotees
Construction Technique
The mandir is assembled using Vedic stone stacking: interlocking sandstone blocks with stainless-steel dowels, lime mortar infill, and post-tensioned stone beams supported on load-bearing granite plinths. Two domes (Brahmkund and Tolerance Dome) employ corbelled rings without steel. Interiors include Italian marble jaali screens, copper-clad kalashas, hand-carved ceilings, and 1,000+ relief panels. The experiential building utilises structural steel and GFRC cladding, while MEP tunnels run below the courtyards for maintenance without disturbing worshippers ([1][2]).
Architectural Influences
5 items
Building Techniques
Construction combines Vedic dry-joint masonry, stainless dowels, digital laser scanning, seismic table testing, 3D BIM coordination, modular crane lifts, and off-site prefabrication. Sustainable site works integrate bioswales, drip irrigation, low-e glazing, desert landscaping, and reused excavation material for bunds. Volunteer “seva shifts” maintained stone carving quality, while artisans documented patterns in digital libraries for future conservation ([1][3]).
Coordinates
24.474800, 54.631100
Accessibility Info
{"notes":"Advance booking required; modest attire; multilingual signage; on-site clinic; kids' stroller-friendly routes; desert climate—carry hats.","restrooms":"Accessible restrooms at visitor centre, cultural wing, and gardens; baby-changing rooms; wudu facilities for interfaith guests.","wheelchair_accessible":"Fully accessible ramps, lifts, tactile floor strips, QR-based audio guides, golf buggies from parking; priority seating at artis."}
Visitor Facilities
8 items
Best Visit Times
Visit sunrise for calm darshan and desert light on sandstone; evenings for illuminated shikhars and immersive shows. Cooler months (Nov-Mar) ideal for gardens and outdoor programmes; monsoon-themed “Festival of Harmony” each June offers indoor cultural experiences.
Seasonal Events
6 items
Visitor Restrictions
Respect booking slot; no outside food; photography allowed outdoors only; silence in sanctum; follow eco-guidelines; drones prohibited without permit; adhere to volunteer instructions during peak hours.
View Count
1
Is Featured
Yes
Is Published
Yes
Completion Score
75
Completion Status
complete
Created At
2025-11-09T07:54:30.53319+00:00
Updated At
2025-11-09T13:24:06.574+00:00
Quick Overview
📅
Built InContemporary
📍
LocationAbu Dhabi
🏛️
StyleNagara and Dravidian Hybrid Stone Temple Architecture with Middle Eastern Motifs
🏆
StatusProtected Heritage
What is BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi?
BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi is a historic Temple located in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. This Nagara and Dravidian Hybrid Stone Temple Architecture with Middle Eastern Motifs architectural masterpiece was built during the Contemporary period and represents significant cultural and historical heritage of United Arab Emirates. BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi opened on 14 February 2024 as the Middle East’s first hand-carved Hindu stone temple, rising 108 feet above the desert with seven shikhara spires representing the UAE’s sev...
Category:
TempleLocation:
Abu Mureikha, off E11 Sheikh Zayed Road, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, Abu DhabiPeriod:
ContemporaryStyle:
Nagara and Dravidian Hybrid Stone Temple Architecture with Middle Eastern MotifsKey Features of BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi
- 1Nagara and Dravidian Hybrid Stone Temple Architecture with Middle Eastern Motifs architectural style with distinctive design elements
- 2Constructed using Pink Sandstone from Rajasthan, Italian Carrara Marble, Granite Plinths, Lime Mortar, Copper Kalashas, Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete for service blocks, Timber for doors, showcasing traditional building techniques
- 3Built using The mandir is assembled using Vedic stone stacking: interlocking sandstone blocks with stainless-steel dowels, lime mortar infill, and post-tensioned stone beams supported on load-bearing granite plinths. Two domes (Brahmkund and Tolerance Dome) employ corbelled rings without steel. Interiors include Italian marble jaali screens, copper-clad kalashas, hand-carved ceilings, and 1,000+ relief panels. The experiential building utilises structural steel and GFRC cladding, while MEP tunnels run below the courtyards for maintenance without disturbing worshippers ([1][2]). construction methods
- 4Recognised as Cultural Project of the Year (MEED 2024) and House of Worship Project of the Year (MONDO-DR 2025); highlighted in UAE’s Year of Sustainability programming. providing legal protection
- 5Commissioned by Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), reflecting royal patronage
- 6Current conservation status: Immaculate; sandstone cleaned via soft brushes, landscaping thriving; sensors report stable humidity; stone joints monitored quarterly; no major degradation observed.
Architectural Features
- 1Pyramidal tower (Vimana) with intricate sculptural decoration
- 2Rectangular sanctum (Garbhagriha) housing the main deity
- 3Columned halls (Mandapa) for congregation and rituals
- 4Ornate gateway (Gopuram) with carved figures
What Makes BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi Special?
- 1Exceptional example of Nagara and Dravidian Hybrid Stone Temple Architecture with Middle Eastern Motifs architecture
- 2Royal patronage by Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), reflecting historical significance
- 3First traditional stone mandir in the Gulf, manifesting UAE’s tolerance policy; microcarving unites Hindu narratives with Arab motifs (falcons, dhow). Serves as diplomatic symbol linking India-UAE relations and showcases heritage craftsmanship in contemporary setting.
Visitor Information
How to Visit BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi
| AEDEntry Fee | General darshan free; experiential gallery AED 30; special puja bookings AED 151; parking free with pre-registration; guided tours (groups ≥15) AED 50 per guest; donations encouraged for seva projects ([1]). |
| 🕐Opening Hours | Dawn to Dusk (6 AM - 6 PM) |
| 📅Best Time to Visit | October to March (Winter) |
| ⏱️Duration | 2-3 hours |
| ♿Accessibility | Wheelchair accessible |
| 📸Photography | Allowed (No flash) |
Complete Visitor Guide
How to Visit BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi: Step-by-Step Guide
- 1
Plan Your Visit
Check opening hours and entry fees for BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi. Book tickets online if available to avoid queues. Best visited during early morning or late afternoon.
- 2
Reach the Location
BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi is located in Abu Mureikha, off E11 Sheikh Zayed Road, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi. The nearest major city is Abu Mureikha. Accessible by road, rail, and air. Use GPS coordinates: 24.4748, 54.6311.
- 3
Entry and Guidelines
Entry fee: General darshan free; experiential gallery AED 30; special puja bookings AED 151; parking free with pre-registration; guided tours (groups ≥15) AED 50 per guest; donations encouraged for seva projects ([1]).. Follow dress code for religious sites. Photography is allowed. Maintain silence and respect the heritage.
- 4
Explore the Site
Allocate 2-3 hours to fully explore BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi. Key areas to visit include the main sanctum, pillared halls, and intricate carvings. Consider hiring a local guide for detailed insights.
Historical Timeline
Key Historical Events
Contemporary
Construction of BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi by Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS)
20th Century
Conservation and restoration efforts initiated under Recognised as Cultural Project of the Year (MEED 2024) and House of Worship Project of the Year (MONDO-DR 2025); highlighted in UAE’s Year of Sustainability programming.
2024-2025
Digital documentation and 3D scanning completed by Inheritage Foundation