‘Diya’: Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque launches new immersive show
Over 1.5 billion light units bring Emirati identity to life
ABU DHABI’s Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque has unveiled Diya – A Universe of Light, a mesmerising multi-sensory installation housed within the Peace Dome as part of its new Light and Peace Museum.
The experience invites visitors into a world where technology meets timeless symbolism, offering a contemplative exploration of light as both a physical and spiritual phenomenon.
Combining 360-degree projection with sound, air, and vibration, Diya immerses guests in an ethereal environment that evokes beauty, reflection, and connection. The installation transforms the iconic mosque into a living canvas, fusing modern innovation with cultural depth to create an unforgettable encounter with light.
Diya – A Universe of Light
The visual splendour of Diya is powered by more than 1.5 billion light units. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque itself comes alive through a staggering 1,483,815,000 of these, while the Ghaf Tree – the UAE’s national symbol – glows with 166,315,000 units. Representing resilience, community, and tolerance, the tree stands as a luminous tribute to Emirati heritage and values deeply rooted in the desert’s heart.
This interplay of light and symbolism transforms the installation into both a technical marvel and a cultural expression. Every flicker and hue is crafted to engage the senses and the soul alike.
A journey through the Emirates
The immersive journey begins beneath a canopy of glittering stars before descending gently over the land of the Emirates. Visitors traverse vibrant oases, rugged mountains, serene coastlines, and rolling golden dunes – a poetic portrayal of the nation’s natural beauty. The experience culminates in the architectural splendour of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, its domes and minarets bathed in shifting light that mirrors the essence of peace and coexistence.
Each scene within Diya encapsulates facets of Emirati identity, from the tranquillity of its landscapes to the vision of its people. It is a celebration of the UAE’s spirit, a reminder of how light connects history, humanity, and hope.
Illuminating heritage
Inspired by the legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the mosque continues to embody his vision of unity and understanding among cultures. Diya – A Universe of Light extends this legacy, blending artistry with reflection and opening a new chapter in Abu Dhabi’s cultural narrative.
Through its seamless fusion of technology and tradition, the installation appeals to visitors of all ages, enriching the capital’s art landscape with an experience that is both contemplative and awe-inspiring.
For bookings, and visitor details, visit the official website.