The Abrahamic Family House is a project initiated by the UAE government as part of its efforts to promote religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence among different faiths. It is a unique concept that brings together a mosque, a church, and a synagogue in one location, symbolizing the shared values and beliefs of the Abrahamic religions, i.e., Islam, Christianity, and Judaism.
The Abrahamic Family House is located on Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, close to several prominent cultural and educational institutions, such as the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, and New York University Abu Dhabi. The site covers an area of 20,000 square meters and offers various facilities for worship, contemplation, and education.
The mosque, named Imam Al-Tabari Mosque, is designed to accommodate up to 1,000 worshippers and features a modernist interpretation of Islamic architecture. The prayer hall is spacious, air-conditioned, and equipped with audiovisual systems that enhance the spiritual experience. The mosque also has a separate entrance and prayer area for women, a library, and classrooms for Islamic studies.
The church, named St. Francis Church, is a Catholic chapel that can hold up to 200 people. It follows the typical cruciform plan of a church and has a bell tower that serves as a symbol of Christian worship. The chapel also has a separate entrance and facilities for baptisms, weddings, and other services.
The synagogue, named Rabbi Yaakov Yehuda Synagogue, is a small but elegant space that can accommodate up to 50 people. It features a wooden ark that houses the Torah scrolls and a bimah (raised platform) for the rabbi to lead the service. The synagogue also has a separate entrance and facilities for kosher preparation.
Apart from the individual worship spaces, the Abrahamic Family House also has a shared courtyard that connects the three buildings and serves as a gathering place for the community. The courtyard is designed as a lush garden with water features, shaded areas, and seating arrangements that encourage social interaction and reflection.
In addition, the Abrahamic Family House offers various educational programs and cultural activities that aim to promote interfaith dialogue and understanding. These programs include lectures, workshops, exhibitions, and performances that explore the shared heritage and values of the Abrahamic religions.
The Abrahamic Family House is open to visitors of all faiths and backgrounds, and it has become a popular destination for tourists and residents alike. It offers a peaceful and respectful environment where people can experience the diversity and harmony of the UAE’s multicultural society.
Overall, the Abrahamic Family House is a unique and inspiring project that demonstrates the UAE’s commitment to promoting religious tolerance and coexistence. It is a symbol of hope and unity in a world where religious tensions and conflicts are all too common.