01 July 2021
Abrahamic Family House, a major complex featuring a mosque, church, and a synagogue all at one place on Saadiyat Island in Abu Dhabi, is now more than 20 per cent complete and on track for opening next year.
Designed by architect Sir David Adjaye, the project is inspired by the Document on Human Fraternity and is supervised by the Higher Committee of Human Fraternity. The design captures the values shared between Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, through three main buildings – Imam Al-Tayeb Mosque, St Francis Church, and Moses Ben Maimon Synagogue.
It is characterised by an iconic geometric architecture of three cubes that evokes the features of traditional architecture and preserves its uniqueness.
The structures will represent the unified commonality and mutual coexistence between the three religions whilst evoking the traditional architecture and retaining the individualism of each of the three faiths.
In the vicinity of the site, there will be a cultural centre that aims to encourage people to exemplify human fraternity and solidarity within a community that cherishes the values of mutual respect and peaceful coexistence, while the unique character of each faith is preserved.
As a place for learning, dialogue and worship, the Abrahamic Family House will be a cultural landmark and an inspiring global symbol that epitomises the shared values of harmonious coexistence and understanding among the three Abrahamic faiths, said a top official.
During the design phases of the houses of worship, members of religious communities worldwide have been engaged and consulted to ensure consistency with and adherence to the respective religion’s requirements and teachings.