Abu Dhabi: The Abu Dhabi Hindu Temple, the Middle East’s largest traditional stone temple (BAPS Mandir), has opened its doors to the public, welcoming visitors of all faiths without the need for prior registration.
Initially, UAE residents were advised to pre-register via a dedicated website and app due to the anticipation of a large influx of international visitors for post-inauguration events. However, the temple’s management, under the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), a global spiritual organization known for constructing over 1,100 temples worldwide, has now announced that registration is no longer necessary for UAE residents wishing to visit.
Open six days a week, the temple invites guests to explore its serene environment from Tuesday to Sunday, 9 am to 8 pm, with closure on Mondays. Visitors are advised that bags, food, drinks, and photography inside the main worship area are prohibited to preserve the spiritual atmosphere of the site.
Visiting Information:
- Open: Tuesday to Sunday, 9 am to 8 pm (closed Mondays)
- No registration needed for UAE residents
- No bags, food, or drinks allowed inside the main temple
- Photography prohibited within the main temple
Since its opening, the temple has attracted tens of thousands of visitors, including over 40,000 people during weekends. The site offers various facilities, such as the eco-friendly Orchard restaurant, which serves vegetarian meals and refreshments made from recycled materials.
Festival of Harmony Concludes:
The grand “Palkhi Yatra” procession, celebrating cultural diversity, marked the conclusion of the “Festival of Harmony” on Sunday. Over 1,100 participants representing various regions of India showcased their traditions through music, attire, and singing.
The festival, featuring events focused on harmony, civilization, and inspiration, attracted religious leaders, intellectuals, and various prominent figures. It also included a “Day of Inspiration” celebrating women’s contributions to society and a blood donation drive in partnership with Aster Clinic.
KNOWLEDGE | The first Hindu temple in the UAE, opened 1958 at Bur Dubai