Abu Dhabi opens doors to Abraham family home

Abu Dhabi has officially launched the Abraham Family House, a new learning center comprising a mosque, a church and a synagogue, within the Saadiyat Cultural District.

Designed by award-winning Ghanaian-British architect Sir David Adjaye, the new cultural landmark embodies the harmony and mutuality of the Abrahamic faiths of Judaism, Christianity and Islam through three main buildings – a mosque Values ​​of understanding, a church and a synagogue all in one location.

The design features the iconic geometry of three cubes – each 30 meters deep, 30 meters wide and 30 meters high – that evoke the character of traditional architecture while retaining its uniqueness, the Higher Committee of Human Fraternity (HCHF ) said, oversaw the entire project.

These structures will represent the unified commonality and mutual coexistence among the three religions, while retaining the individualism of each of the three faiths.

The names of three iconic houses of worship have been officially announced, namely Imam Tayeb Mosque, St. Francis Church and Moses ben Maimun Synagogue.

The three chapels have equal status and the same external dimensions to respect the architectural codes and individualism of each faith, the HCHF said. Each takes the form of a cube, 30 meters deep, 30 meters wide and 30 meters high.

Every aspect of the design is brought to life through the architectural features and unique structural details of the façade, exterior and interior views, columns, and windows and vaults that reflect the unique features of each of the three Abrahamic faiths, it said.

It includes three separate houses of worship and shared spaces for gathering and conversation, and will welcome visitors from March 1.

Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Abrahamic Family House, said: “It symbolizes the long-held UAE values ​​of mutual respect and peaceful coexistence – values ​​embodied by our founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed. The center will serve as a learning platform and Dialogue, a model of coexistence against the backdrop of the multiculturalism and diversity of our country, where more than 200 ethnic groups coexist peacefully.”

“We hope the Abraham Family Home will inspire young people everywhere as we highlight our common humanity and commit to creating a more peaceful world for future generations,” he noted.

The complex’s central forum serves as the center of the visitor experience, where immersive exhibits will introduce visitors to the Abraham Family House and invite them to reflect on the three faiths.

The space will host discussions, forums and meetings that promote understanding, dialogue and peaceful coexistence. It added that the shared garden is another space for members of the interfaith community and visitors of all faiths to meet, learn and converse.trade arab news agency