Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi: Biggest Hindu temple in West Asia

Ambassadors and spouses from 42 countries were recently treated to a preview of the temple, organized by Ambassador Sunjay Sudhir. (Pic: PTI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the first Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi on February 14. This temple holds great significance as it is not only the first traditional hand-carved stone Hindu temple in the Middle East but also the largest Hindu temple in West Asia.

The United Arab Emirates' (UAE) envoy to India, Abdulnasser Alshaali, has described the inauguration as a "monumental day" to celebrate tolerance and acceptance. He emphasized that this initiative would further strengthen the ties between India and the UAE.

Here are some key highlights of the temple, which is constructed by the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha:

The Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, generously gifted vast land for the temple in August 2015.

A memorandum of understanding was signed between India and the UAE on February 10, 2018, in the presence of the royal family and local leaders.

Construction of the temple began in December 2019, with tonnes of pink sandstones and marbles imported from northern Rajasthan to Abu Dhabi.

Over 2,000 artisans from Rajasthan and Gujarat were employed to carve 402 white marble pillars adorned with sculptures of animals, birds, musicians, and the Moon.

The temple complex, spanning around 27 acres, will feature facilities for social and cultural gatherings, including visitor centers, prayer halls, exhibitions, learning areas, sports areas for children, thematic gardens, water features, a food court, and a books and gift shop.

The temple, standing at around 108 feet tall, has been built at an estimated cost of Rs 700 crore and can accommodate 8,000-10,000 people. It is open to people of all faiths.