In a momentous event for the Hindu community in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Prime Minister Narendra Modi is poised to inaugurate the largest Hindu BAPS temple in Abu Dhabi next year.
Scheduled for February 14, 2024, the grand opening marks the completion of the first traditional Hindu stone temple in Abu Dhabi. The construction of the iconic BAPS Hindu Mandir commenced in December 2019 and is now nearing its final stages.
This historic project, situated on 55,000 sq.m of land generously donated by the Abu Dhabi Crown Prince, stands as a symbol of religious harmony and cultural diversity in the UAE. The land allocation, made as a goodwill gesture by the Government of the UAE, traces back to Prime Minister Modi’s 2015 visit to the country.
The stone structures for the temple, crafted with precision and authenticity, are being brought from India—a significant gesture symbolizing the cultural ties between the two nations. Prime Minister Modi, during his visit to the UAE in February 2018, laid the foundation stone for this monumental structure.
Sadguru Pujya Swami, the global convener of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, expressed his gratitude for the continuous support received from both the Indian and UAE governments. The under-construction BAPS Hindu Temple in Abu Dhabi is poised to be one of the largest and most beautiful Hindu temples outside of India, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship and architectural marvels. The completion of this temple serves as a gift from India to the UAE and underscores the spirit of unity and cooperation between the two nations.
Union Minister of Education and Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Dharmendra Pradhan, recently visited the construction site to assess the progress. During his visit, he reiterated the significance of the temple, stating, “I want to express my gratitude towards the Swaminarayan Sampradaya and PM Modi. It is under his leadership and cooperation that this temple is being constructed.”
The BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi not only provides a spiritual haven for the Hindu community in the UAE but also symbolizes the enduring friendship and cultural exchange between India and the United Arab Emirates.