Report: Gurudwara Sahib, Abu Dhabi Date: October 26, 2023 Subject: Overview of the First Sikh Temple in the Capital of the United Arab Emirates

1. Executive Summary Gurudwara Sahib Abu Dhabi is the first and only Sikh place of worship in the capital city of the United Arab Emirates. Inaugurated in 2023, it serves as a spiritual sanctuary for the Sikh community and a landmark of interfaith tolerance. Built through the generosity of the Sikh community and supported by the UAE government, the Gurudwara is a testament to the nation's commitment to diversity and religious freedom. It is renowned not only for its religious significance but also for its architectural beauty and its dedication to the Sikh principle of Seva (selfless service).

2. Historical Context For decades, the Sikh population in Abu Dhabi worshipped in makeshift accommodations, often within private homes or rented halls. The turning point came in 2018 during the visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the UAE, where the land for the temple was officially allocated. The UAE government gifted 25,000 square feet of land in the Al Wahada area for the construction. The foundation stone was laid in January 2019. The project was funded entirely through donations from the global Sikh community and well-wishers, spearheaded by the Gurudwara Sahib Abu Dhabi Committee.

3. Inauguration The Gurudwara was officially inaugurated in a grand ceremony on February 26, 2023 . The event was attended by high-profile dignitaries, including:

Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan (UAE Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence). Jaswant Singh Bishnoi (President of the Gurudwara Committee).

The inauguration coincided with the presence of the Holy Sikh Scripture, the Guru Granth Sahib , which was installed in the main prayer hall, marking the official sanctification of the site.

4. Architecture and Design The Gurudwara Sahib is an architectural marvel that blends traditional Sikh design with modern construction techniques suitable for the UAE climate.

Exterior: The building features pristine white marble exteriors, symbolizing peace and purity. The facade incorporates traditional Islamic geometric patterns alongside Sikh motifs, representing a harmonious fusion of Indian heritage and Emirati culture. The Dome: A central, lotus-shaped dome sits atop the structure, a signature element of Sikh architecture. Interior: The walls and floors are adorned with high-quality marble. The main prayer hall features a vaulted ceiling and intricate chandeliers. The sanctum sanctorum where the Guru Granth Sahib is placed is decorated with gold leaf work and religious frescoes. Capacity: The main hall can accommodate approximately 500 to 600 worshippers at a time, with overflow areas available for major festivals.

5. Religious and Cultural Activities The Gurudwara functions as a full-fledged religious center, observing all Sikh rites and rituals.

Daily Prayers: The Gurudwara opens early in the morning with the recitation of Japji Sahib and concludes in the evening with Rehras Sahib and Kirtan Sohila . Kirtan: Devotional hymns are sung live by Ragi Jathas (religious singers) regularly. Gurpurabs: Major Sikh festivals such as the birthdays of the Sikh Gurus, Baisakhi, and Diwali are celebrated with great fervor, attracting thousands of devotees. Education: The facility hosts classes for children to learn Punjabi, Gurmukhi script, and Sikh history.

6. Community Services (Seva) True to the core Sikh tenet of service, the Abu Dhabi Gurudwara is deeply involved in humanitarian work.

Langar (Community Kitchen): The most significant service offered is the Langar , a free community kitchen serving vegetarian meals to all visitors, regardless of religion or background. The Langar operates daily, serving hundreds of meals every weekend. Humanitarian Aid: During the COVID-19 pandemic (even before the permanent building was finished) and subsequent global crises, the Sikh community in Abu Dhabi mobilized through this organization to provide food kits and medical aid to laborers and those in need. Blood Donation Camps: The Gurudwara frequently organizes blood donation drives in collaboration with UAE health authorities.