Abu Dhabi’s first net-zero energy mosque opens in time for Ramadan

As Ramadan begins, Abu Dhabi has welcomed a truly special new place of worship. The Masdar City Mosque has officially opened its doors, offering worshippers a serene space to gather, reflect and pray - while quietly setting a powerful sustainability benchmark for the city.

Set within Masdar City, the mosque blends traditional Emirati design with forward-thinking green technology, creating a space that feels rooted in heritage yet designed for the future. It is the first mosque in Abu Dhabi to achieve Net-Zero Energy status, meaning it produces as much energy as it consumes across the year.

A mosque designed for the modern city

From the outside, the mosque’s architecture takes inspiration from traditional regional forms, including historic mosques found across the UAE. Step inside, and you’ll find a calm, light-filled prayer hall designed to accommodate up to 1,300 worshippers, with uninterrupted sight lines and natural materials that help regulate temperature.

The minaret rises as a new landmark within Masdar City, while the column-free prayer hall creates an open, peaceful environment that feels both intimate and expansive – particularly meaningful during the evening prayers and gatherings of Ramadan.

This is not just a beautiful mosque - it is also one of the most environmentally advanced religious buildings in the region. Powered entirely by solar energy, the mosque produces enough clean electricity to cover its annual needs. Solar panels are integrated into the roof and shaded parking areas, quietly doing the work behind the scenes.

Water use has also been carefully considered. Greywater from ablution areas is treated and reused for irrigation, reducing overall water consumption. Passive cooling techniques, shaded arcades, natural ventilation and daylighting help keep the interior comfortable while lowering energy demand.

The mosque has also achieved international sustainability certifications, placing it among the most environmentally responsible places of worship in the world.

With 2026 marked as the UAE’s Year of Family, the opening of the mosque feels particularly timely. Beyond daily prayers, it is designed as a gathering space for families and the wider community, encouraging moments of connection throughout the Holy Month.

Located within Masdar City’s growing residential and business district, the mosque adds a spiritual heart to the neighbourhood, offering a peaceful pause from the pace of daily life. Beyond Ramadan, it will host regular faith-based and cultural gatherings, reinforcing its role as both a place of worship and a community anchor.