New Hindu Temple in Abu Dhabi sets to open its door to public on March 1

Tuesday, February 27, 2024

The inauguration of the first Hindu stone temple in Abu Dhabi, a monumental addition to the cultural and spiritual landscape of the UAE, marks a significant milestone for the Indian community and beyond. Set to open its doors to the public on March 1, this architectural marvel has already garnered immense interest from both local residents and international visitors.

This new Hindu temple will attract Indian travellers in Middle East. Constructed by the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) on a sprawling 27-acre site near Al Rahba, the temple’s establishment was made possible through the generous land donation by the UAE government, underscoring the nation’s commitment to fostering religious harmony and cultural inclusivity.

This new Hindu temple, which cost approximately Rs 700 crore to build, was inaugurated by Indian Prime Minister Modi in a grand ceremony attended by over 5,000 guests, symbolizing the deep-rooted friendship and mutual respect between India and the UAE. Designed in the exquisite Nagara style of architecture, the temple stands as a testament to ancient construction techniques described in Hindu scriptures, utilizing 18 lakh bricks and 1.8 lakh cubic metres of sandstone sourced directly from Rajasthan.

One of the Hindu temple’s most striking features is its seven spires, each representing the seven Emirates of the UAE, adorned with carvings of camels, the national bird falcon, and idols of deities including Lord Ram, Lord Shiva, and Lord Krishna, among others. This thoughtful integration of Indian and Emirati elements highlights the temple’s role as a bridge between cultures, promoting a message of unity and peace.

This new Hindu temple’s intricate design extends to its interior, made of pristine white Italian marble, featuring detailed carvings on columns and walls that narrate tales from Indian epics as well as stories from various global civilizations, showcasing the universality of spiritual values. The outer walls, crafted from Indian sandstone, and the interior’s marble work, executed by artisans from Rajasthan and Gujarat, exemplify the craftsmanship and artistry that have gone into creating this sacred space.

In addition to its spiritual significance, the temple also features architectural elements such as two domes named the “Dome of Peace” and “Dome of Harmony,” along with holy water flowing from representations of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers, further enriching the devotional atmosphere. The temple not only serves as a place of worship but also as a cultural hub, reflecting the UAE’s diverse and inclusive society.

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