The Prime Minister of Finland, Petteri Orpo, visited the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi on January 15, 2025. He was accompanied by Tuula Johanna Yrjola, the Finnish Ambassador to the UAE. This visit highlights the continued diplomatic and cultural engagement between Finland and the United Arab Emirates.

ARN News reported, that during the tour, Orpo and Yrjola explored the mosque’s halls and external corridors, guided by Dr. Yousif Al Obaidli, the Director-General of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre. They received insights into the mosque’s messages of coexistence, tolerance, and openness, reflecting the values established by the UAE’s founding father.

The delegation learned about the Centre’s role in promoting a tolerant Islamic culture and fostering cultural communication among diverse cultures globally. They also delved into the history of the grand mosque, admiring its aesthetic grandeur and the exquisite art of Islamic architecture that reflects its rich heritage.

At the conclusion of the visit, Orpo was presented with a gift that symbolized the mosque’s beauty. This included floral mosaic designs inspired by the exterior columns, a compass influenced by the mosque’s chandeliers, and a copy of the publication “Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Lights of Peace.” This gesture further emphasized the enduring friendship and cultural ties between Finland and the UAE.