Today's Edition
TAARIQ HALIM (ABU DHABI)
The Light and Peace Museum at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is inviting the public to view its latest collection of rare Islamic artefacts.
The new exhibits include a folio from the “Blue Qur’an”, as well as an astrolabe that is being displayed for the first time.
In a post on social media, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque said the collection traces the diversity of Islamic art across different periods and underscores the museum’s role in safeguarding heritage for future generations.
The rotation of artefacts supports the preservation of unique and precious objects, it added.
The Blue Qur’an is a copy of the manuscript dating back to 800-900 CE, known for its vivid blue pages, silver decoration and gold Kufic calligraphy.
Other exhibits include a 17th-century astrolabe crafted by Muhammad Mahdi Al-Yazdi, and a gold-plated copper candlestick dating back to 1539 AD, presented to the Prophet’s Mosque by the court of Ottoman Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent.
Opened on December 18, 2024, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, the Light and Peace Museum offers an experience steeped in faith, inspiration and coexistence.
The museum showcases a remarkable collection of carefully selected artistic and scientific works - such as medical manuscripts, decorative arts, calligraphy and textiles - representing significant milestones in Islamic history and culture.
These treasures span centuries and offer a profound insight into the depth and richness of Islamic heritage, blending historical legacies with contemporary artistic expressions.
The museum also highlights the enduring values of tolerance and peace in UAE history and embodies the founding father’s vision of integrating these values into UAE society, establishing the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque as a beacon of cultural harmony.
Visiting hours are Monday to Sunday from 9am to 9pm.
