On 14 February 2024, in Abu Dhabi, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially inaugurated the first traditional stone-built Hindu temple in the Middle East. Alongside His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, the spiritual leader of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha (Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha), Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in a ribbon-cutting ceremony to open the BAPS Hindu temple. Situated across 27 acres of land in the Abu Mureikhah area, this grand temple symbolises cultural harmony and cooperation, serving as a testament to the bond between India and the UAE.
Here Are Some Interesting Facts About The BAPS Hindu Temple
The BAPS Hindu temple is the first Hindu temple in the UAE and will officially open to public on 18 February, 2024. Upon its official opening, the temple, with a capacity to accommodate 8,000 to 10,000 individuals, will welcome people of all faiths.
Visitors will have the opportunity to experience symbolic representations, including streams symbolising the Ganga and Yamuna rivers of India, along with a beam of light representing the Saraswati River.
The temple's seven spires symbolise each of the seven Emirates of the UAE. Furthermore, it comprises a visitor centre, prayer halls, thematic gardens, and learning areas. It also features 100 sensors installed in its foundation, with additional sensors in other areas to monitor seismic activity, temperature changes, and other factors.
Constructed from pink Rajasthan sandstone and white Italian marble, the temple was intricately carved in India and transported to the UAE for assembly.
The cost of the construction of the temple is estimated to be Dhs 400 million.