The UAE is gearing up for the grand opening of its first traditional hand-carved Hindu Temple in Abu Dhabi's Abu Mureikha area, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the temple on 14 February 2024. A special morning prayer will precede the evening dedication ceremony on 14 February, during which seven deities will be sanctified and blessed.
When it comes to visitors, the temple is scheduled to open to the public on 18 February.
The Hindu temple project, initiated by Prime Minister Modi in 2018, commenced sculpting work in 2020. Over the past three years, more than 20,000 tonnes of stone and marble were transported in over 700 containers to Abu Dhabi. Skilled artisans from India's Rajasthan and Gujarat states meticulously carved 402 white marble pillars for the temple.
Once open, the temple, designed to accommodate 8,000 to 10,000 people, will welcome individuals of all faiths. Visitors will encounter symbolic elements such as streams representing the Ganga and Yamuna rivers in India and a beam of light symbolising the Saraswati River.
Before entering, guests can ring small copper and brass bells, adding to the immersive experience. Stay tuned for further details about this monumental Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi.