Abrahamic Family House Abu Dhabi: The Abrahamic Family House is one of Abu Dhabi’s most meaningful cultural landmarks, symbolizing peaceful coexistence, dialogue, and shared humanity. Located in the Cultural District on Saadiyat Island, this iconic complex brings together a mosque, a church, and a synagogue on a single site—making it the first of its kind in the world.
Designed to encourage understanding among the Abrahamic faiths—Islam, Christianity, and Judaism, the Abrahamic Family House is not just a place of worship but also a center for education, reflection, and global dialogue.
What Is the Abrahamic Family House?
The Abrahamic Family House is an interfaith complex that includes:
- Eminence Ahmed El-Tayeb Mosque
- St. Francis Church
- Moses Ben Maimon Synagogue
- The Forum (a secular space for dialogue and events)
All three houses of worship share the same cubic architectural form and dimensions, standing on a single plinth that reflects equality, unity, and mutual respect.
The project was inaugurated on February 16, 2023, and has since become a must-visit destination for tourists, students, researchers, and faith communities.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Abrahamic Family House |
| Location | Cultural District, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE |
| Entry Fee | Free (advance online booking required) |
| Opening Days | Tuesday to Sunday |
| Timings | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (varies on Fridays) |
| Houses of Worship | Mosque, Church, Synagogue |
| Architect | Sir David Adjaye |
| Opened | February 16, 2023 |
| Guided Tours | Free (English & Arabic) |
| Suitable For | Families, students, tourists, all faiths |
Abrahamic Family House Abu Dhabi Ticket Price & Booking
One of the most visitor-friendly aspects of the Abrahamic Family House is that entry is completely free.
Ticket Information
- Entry Fee: Free for all visitors
- Booking Required: Yes (mandatory)
- Where to Book: Official Abrahamic Family House website or mobile app
- Worship Visits: No ticket required for prayer times
- Guided Tours: Free, but advance booking required
Although entry is free, visitors must pre-book a timed slot for general visits, guided tours, and educational experiences to manage crowd flow and security.
Read more: Abu Dhabi Big Ticket 2026
Ticket site
Visit official website. Check out more.
Guided Tours at Abrahamic Family House
Free guided tours are highly recommended for first-time visitors.
Tour Highlights
- Available in English and Arabic
- Explanation of architectural symbolism
- Insights into the traditions and rituals of each faith
- Educational storytelling suitable for all age groups
Tours are conducted by trained guides and offer a deeper understanding of the project’s spiritual and cultural purpose.
Architecture & Design Philosophy
The Abrahamic Family House was designed by Sir David Adjaye, a renowned Ghanaian-British architect.
Design Features
- Identical exterior dimensions for all three houses
- Unique interior layouts aligned with each faith’s traditions
- Orientation reflecting religious practices
- Minimalist, timeless architectural language
- A shared rooftop garden symbolizing unity
The design draws inspiration from the Document on Human Fraternity, signed in 2019 by Pope Francis and Grand Imam Ahmed El-Tayeb, which calls for tolerance, peace, and dialogue.
Key Attractions Inside the Complex
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Eminence Ahmed El-Tayeb Mosque | Islamic place of worship reflecting unity and spiritual tradition |
| St. Francis Church | Christian church promoting peace and interfaith harmony |
| Moses Ben Maimon Synagogue | Jewish synagogue highlighting faith, history, and learning |
| The Forum | Central space for dialogue, education, and community events |
| Rooftop Garden | Shared landscaped area symbolizing coexistence and reflection |
Dress Code & Visitor Guidelines
To respect the sanctity of the site:
- Modest clothing is required
- Shoulders and knees should be covered
- Abayas are provided when necessary
- Expect airport-style security screening
- Photography is allowed in permitted areas
How to Reach Abrahamic Family House
Location
Jacques Chirac Street, Cultural District, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Public Transport
- Bus Route 94 (drops visitors at Gate B)
By Car or Taxi
- Parking available on-site
- Easily accessible via Google Maps
From Abu Dhabi City
- Drive toward Mina Port → Cultural District, Saadiyat Island
From Dubai or Yas Island
- Take E11 → Sheikh Khalifa Highway (E12)
- Follow signs to Saadiyat Cultural District
Why Visit the Abrahamic Family House?
- Experience a unique interfaith landmark
- Learn about three major world religions in one place
- Free entry with world-class guided tours
- Peaceful, educational, and reflective environment
- Ideal for families, students, and cultural travelers
Do’s & Don’ts
| Do’s | Don’ts |
|---|---|
| Book your free entry slot online in advance | Don’t visit without a confirmed booking |
| Dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees) | Don’t wear revealing or inappropriate clothing |
| Follow security and staff instructions | Don’t bypass security checks |
| Maintain silence inside worship areas | Don’t disturb worshippers or guided tours |
| Respect all faiths and traditions | Don’t engage in debates or disrespectful behavior |
| Arrive on time for your slot | Don’t overstay beyond your allocated visit time |
FAQs
Q1: Is entry to the Abrahamic Family House free?
Yes, entry is completely free, but visitors must book a time slot online in advance.
Q2: Is online booking mandatory?
Yes, pre-booking is required for general visits, guided tours, and educational programs.
Q3: What are the visiting hours?
The visitor experience is generally open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Fridays have split timings. The complex is closed on Mondays.
Q4: Are guided tours available?
Yes, free guided tours are available in English and Arabic and are highly recommended.
Q5: Can people of all religions visit?
Absolutely. Visitors of all faiths and backgrounds are welcome.
Q6: Is there a dress code?
Yes, modest attire is required. Abayas are provided if needed.
Q7: Can I visit for worship without a ticket?
Yes, worshippers may access the respective houses of worship during prayer times without a visitor ticket.
Q8: Is the Abrahamic Family House suitable for children?
Yes, it is family-friendly and offers educational value for children and students.
