What if these walls of Masjid Derwish Bin Karam could talk? This mosque stands as a testament to faith and community in Abu Dhabi.
Masjid Derwish Bin Karam is a place of peace. It is a local landmark for worshippers and visitors alike. Though not as grand as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, it holds its own special place.
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is the country’s largest mosque. It embodies Islamic messages of peace tolerance and diversity. Its construction between 1994 and 2007 united the Islamic world’s cultural diversity. It blends historical and modern values of architecture and art. The mosque can accommodate over 40100 worshippers. The main prayer hall can hold over 7000 people.
The Grand Mosque features 82 domes and over 1000 columns. It also boasts 24-carat-gold gilded chandeliers. The world’s largest hand-knotted carpet is found here. Natural materials were chosen for construction. Marble stone gold and semi-precious stones add to its beauty. Artisans and materials came from many countries.
The carpet in the hall is considered the world’s largest. Iranian artist Ali Khaliqi designed it. Around 1200-1300 carpet knotters made it. It weighs 35 tons and contains 2268000000 knots.
Seven imported chandeliers from Germany adorn the Grand Mosque. They incorporate millions of Swarovski crystals. The largest chandelier is the second largest in a mosque. It has a 10 m diameter and a 15 m height.
The pools along the arcades reflect the mosque’s columns. The unique lighting system reflects the phases of the moon. Bluish gray clouds are projected onto the external walls. They get brighter and darker with the moon’s phase.
Ninety-nine names of God are featured on the Qibla wall. Traditional Kufic calligraphy enhances its beauty. Fiber-optic lighting is integrated into the design. Three calligraphy styles are used Naskhi Thuluth and Kufic.
While Masjid Derwish Bin Karam may not have the fame of the Grand Mosque. It serves as an important place for prayer and reflection in this vibrant city. Its presence enriches the spiritual landscape of Abu Dhabi. It is one of many mosques that dot the cityscape. Each offers a space for devotion and community.