• An aerial image released in June 2021 of the Abrahamic Family House on Saadiyat Island shows that work is well under way. Photo: Abu Dhabi Media Office
    An aerial image released in June 2021 of the Abrahamic Family House on Saadiyat Island shows that work is well under way. Photo: Abu Dhabi Media Office
  • A rendering of the finished interior of the Imam Al Tayeb Mosque, part of the Abrahamic Family House, on Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi. Photo: Adjaye Associates
    A rendering of the finished interior of the Imam Al Tayeb Mosque, part of the Abrahamic Family House, on Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi. Photo: Adjaye Associates
  • An artist's illustration of the Abrahamic Family House. Photo: Abu Dhabi Government
    An artist's illustration of the Abrahamic Family House. Photo: Abu Dhabi Government
  • The Saadiyat Island site is home to a church, mosque and synagogue. Pictured is a rendering of St Francis Church. Photo: Abu Dhabi Media Office
    The Saadiyat Island site is home to a church, mosque and synagogue. Pictured is a rendering of St Francis Church. Photo: Abu Dhabi Media Office
  • The Saadiyat Island site houses a mosque, church and synagogue. Pictured is Moses Ben Maimon Synagogue. Photo: Abu Dhabi Media Office
    The Saadiyat Island site houses a mosque, church and synagogue. Pictured is Moses Ben Maimon Synagogue. Photo: Abu Dhabi Media Office

First images of Abu Dhabi's Abrahamic Family House under construction released


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Construction work is well under way on the Abrahamic Family House, Abu Dhabi's multi-faith place of worship.

New images show the foundations of the church, mosque and synagogue being built on Saadiyat Island.

The names of the three houses of worship have been revealed as Imam Al Tayeb Mosque, St Francis Church, and Moses ben Maimon Synagogue.

The project, which also includes a cultural centre, will welcome visitors to worship, learn and engage in dialogue.

Overseeing the development of this iconic project is inspiring and reflective of the UAE efforts in realising the values of the Document on Human Fraternity and fostering its lofty principle

A fifth of the project is now complete, officials said, and it is due to open in 2022.

The project is a legacy of Pope Francis's visit to Abu Dhabi in February 2019.

Its design was unveiled by Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation, at a meeting of the Higher Committee of Human Fraternity, in New York.

The committee is a group of religious leaders, scholars and cultural leaders who were inspired by the Document on Human Fraternity, signed by Pope Francis and Dr Ahmed Al Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al Azhar, during the pontiff's visit to Abu Dhabi.

The Abrahamic Family House's design, by Ghanaian-British architect Sir David Adjaye, captures the values shared between Judaism, Christianity and Islam.

The complex "recounts the history and builds bridges between human civilisations and heavenly messages", Abu Dhabi's government said on Tuesday, and is set to be a physical manifestation of the Document on Human Fraternity signed by Pope Francis and Dr Ahmed Al Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al Azhar, during the pontiff's visit. The synagogue, for example, is named after Moses Ben Maimon, a 12th century Jewish scholar and philosopher.

Mohamed Al Mubarak, chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi and a member of the Higher Committee of Human Fraternity, said the site "epitomises interfaith harmonious co-existence and preserves the unique character of each religion".

An interior look at the mosque that will be part of the Abrahamic Family House. Courtesy Adjaye Associates
An interior look at the mosque that will be part of the Abrahamic Family House. Courtesy Adjaye Associates

"Overseeing the development of this iconic project is inspiring and reflective of the UAE's efforts in realising the values of the Document on Human Fraternity and fostering its lofty principles," Mr Al Mubarak said. He added that the names forge a message of goodwill for future generations around the world.

The project has advanced rapidly since it was announced on February 5, 2019 by Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces.

Its construction in the capital of the UAE – a country home to dozens of nationalities peacefully practising a number of faiths – was particularly special, said officials.

While the places of worship are the same height, the designs and interiors will be significantly different.

“This is a really special project that hits on the trinity of this Abrahamic faith that is influencing over half the world's population,” said Mr Adjaye.

"This new initiative by the head imam, the Pope and the head rabbi of the region ... for the [leadership] of Abu Dhabi to commission this incredible project to make a statement about commonality is a very profound moment."

The Abrahamic House is just the latest initiative to demonstrate the country's long-standing commitment to tolerance, said officials.

Christians were allowed to practise their faith in what is now the UAE,even before the country was formed, while Abu Dhabi's first Hindu temple is set to open its doors in 2023.

The Pope visits the UAE – in pictures

  • Pope Francis arrives to speak to reporters aboard a plane on the way to Abu Dhabi. Reuters
    Pope Francis arrives to speak to reporters aboard a plane on the way to Abu Dhabi. Reuters
  • Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai; Mohamed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, and Pope Francis, Head of the Catholic Church stand for a national anthem during a reception, at the Presidential Palace on the day two of the Holy See's official visit. Rashed Al Mansoori / Ministry of Presidential Affairs
    Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai; Mohamed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, and Pope Francis, Head of the Catholic Church stand for a national anthem during a reception, at the Presidential Palace on the day two of the Holy See's official visit. Rashed Al Mansoori / Ministry of Presidential Affairs
  • The landmark visit of Pope Francis to Abu Dhabi in February was an extraordinary, momentous occasion broadcast globally Victor Besa / The National
    The landmark visit of Pope Francis to Abu Dhabi in February was an extraordinary, momentous occasion broadcast globally Victor Besa / The National
  • Crowds cheer as Pope Francis arrives at the Zayed Sports City to deliver mass on February 5, 2019. Victor Besa / The National
    Crowds cheer as Pope Francis arrives at the Zayed Sports City to deliver mass on February 5, 2019. Victor Besa / The National
  • Pope Francis arrives at the Zayed Sports City to deliver mass on February 5, 2019. Victor Besa / The National
    Pope Francis arrives at the Zayed Sports City to deliver mass on February 5, 2019. Victor Besa / The National
  • Pope Francis presents a gift to Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, on February 4, 2019. Also seen is Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai. Ministry of Presidential Affairs photo
    Pope Francis presents a gift to Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, on February 4, 2019. Also seen is Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai. Ministry of Presidential Affairs photo
  • Pope Francis delivers mass at Zayed Sports City on February 5, 2019. Victor Besa / The National
    Pope Francis delivers mass at Zayed Sports City on February 5, 2019. Victor Besa / The National
  • Worshipers attend mass at Zayed Sports City during the Pope's visit. Victor Besa / The National
    Worshipers attend mass at Zayed Sports City during the Pope's visit. Victor Besa / The National
  • Worshipers attend mass at Zayed Sports City during the Pope's visit. Victor Besa / The National
    Worshipers attend mass at Zayed Sports City during the Pope's visit. Victor Besa / The National
  • Pope Francis, Head of the Catholic Church arrives at the Zayed Sports City to deliver mass on February 5, 2019. Victor Besa / The National
    Pope Francis, Head of the Catholic Church arrives at the Zayed Sports City to deliver mass on February 5, 2019. Victor Besa / The National
  • Worshippers pray during the mass held. byPope Francis in Abu Dhabi on February 5, 2019. Victor Besa / The National
    Worshippers pray during the mass held. byPope Francis in Abu Dhabi on February 5, 2019. Victor Besa / The National
  • On day two of the UAE papal visit, Pope Francis and Dr Ahmad Al Tayyeb, Grand Imam of the Al Azhar Al Sharif, tour Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Saeed Al Neyadi / Ministry of Presidential Affairs
    On day two of the UAE papal visit, Pope Francis and Dr Ahmad Al Tayyeb, Grand Imam of the Al Azhar Al Sharif, tour Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Saeed Al Neyadi / Ministry of Presidential Affairs
  • Pope Francis arrives at the Zayed Sports City to deliver mass on February 5, 2019. Victor Besa / The National
    Pope Francis arrives at the Zayed Sports City to deliver mass on February 5, 2019. Victor Besa / The National
  • Worshipers attend mass at Zayed Sports City during the Pope's visit. Victor Besa / The National
    Worshipers attend mass at Zayed Sports City during the Pope's visit. Victor Besa / The National
  • Worshipers attend mass at Zayed Sports City during the Pope's visit. Victor Besa / The National
    Worshipers attend mass at Zayed Sports City during the Pope's visit. Victor Besa / The National
  • Pope Francis arrives at the Zayed Sports City to deliver mass on February 5, 2019. Victor Besa / The National
    Pope Francis arrives at the Zayed Sports City to deliver mass on February 5, 2019. Victor Besa / The National
  • Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid announce that the Abrahamic House will be built in Abu Dhabi in honour of Pope Francis and the Grand Imam, Dr Ahmed Al Tayeb.
    Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid announce that the Abrahamic House will be built in Abu Dhabi in honour of Pope Francis and the Grand Imam, Dr Ahmed Al Tayeb.
  • Pope Francis delivers a speech during the Founders Memorial event in Abu Dhabi on the first visit by the head of the Catholic church to the Muslim-majority Arabian Peninsula. AFP
    Pope Francis delivers a speech during the Founders Memorial event in Abu Dhabi on the first visit by the head of the Catholic church to the Muslim-majority Arabian Peninsula. AFP
  • Pope Francis speaks with athlete Chaica Al Qassimi after a reception at Al Mushrif Palace on February 4, 2019. Ryan Carter / Ministry of Presidential Affairs
    Pope Francis speaks with athlete Chaica Al Qassimi after a reception at Al Mushrif Palace on February 4, 2019. Ryan Carter / Ministry of Presidential Affairs
  • Pope Francis and Dr Ahmad Al Tayeb, Grand Imam of the Al Azhar Al Sharif unveil two new artworks belonging to Louvre Abu Dhabi and the Zayed National Museum. Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism
    Pope Francis and Dr Ahmad Al Tayeb, Grand Imam of the Al Azhar Al Sharif unveil two new artworks belonging to Louvre Abu Dhabi and the Zayed National Museum. Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism
  • Worshipers queue to get on a bus to take them to Zayed Sports City for mass. Victor Besa / The National
    Worshipers queue to get on a bus to take them to Zayed Sports City for mass. Victor Besa / The National
  • Worshipers queue to get on a bus to take them to Zayed Sports City for mass. Victor Besa / The National
    Worshipers queue to get on a bus to take them to Zayed Sports City for mass. Victor Besa / The National
  • Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed bids farewell to Pope Francis at the Presidential Airport on February 5, 2019. Mohamed Al Hammadi / Ministry of Presidential Affairs
    Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed bids farewell to Pope Francis at the Presidential Airport on February 5, 2019. Mohamed Al Hammadi / Ministry of Presidential Affairs
  • Pope Francis waves goodbye as he leaves Abu Dhabi after his three-day visit in February 2019. Mohamed Al Hammadi / Ministry of Presidential Affairs
    Pope Francis waves goodbye as he leaves Abu Dhabi after his three-day visit in February 2019. Mohamed Al Hammadi / Ministry of Presidential Affairs
Muslim Council of Elders condemns terrorism on religious sites

The Muslim Council of Elders has strongly condemned the criminal attacks on religious sites in Britain.

It firmly rejected “acts of terrorism, which constitute a flagrant violation of the sanctity of houses of worship”.

“Attacking places of worship is a form of terrorism and extremism that threatens peace and stability within societies,” it said.

The council also warned against the rise of hate speech, racism, extremism and Islamophobia. It urged the international community to join efforts to promote tolerance and peaceful coexistence.

Top 10 in the F1 drivers' standings

1. Sebastian Vettel, Ferrari 202 points

2. Lewis Hamilton, Mercedes-GP 188

3. Valtteri Bottas, Mercedes-GP 169

4. Daniel Ricciardo, Red Bull Racing 117

5. Kimi Raikkonen, Ferrari 116

6. Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing 67

7. Sergio Perez, Force India 56

8. Esteban Ocon, Force India 45

9. Carlos Sainz Jr, Toro Rosso 35

10. Nico Hulkenberg, Renault 26

RESULTS

5pm Maiden (PA) Dh80,000 (Turf) 1,600m

Winner Thabet Al Reef, Bernardo Pinheiro (jockey), Abdallah Al Hammadi (trainer)

5.30pm Handicap (PA) Dh80,000 (T) 1,600m

Winner Blue Diamond, Pat Cosgrave, Abdallah Al Hammadi

6pm Arabian Triple Crown Round-1 Listed (PA) Dh230,000 (T) 1,600m

Winner Hameem, Adrie de Vries, Abdallah Al Hammadi

6.30pm Wathba Stallions Cup Handicap (PA) Dh70,000 (T) 1,400m

Winner Shoja’A Muscat, Szczepan Mazur, Ibrahim Al Hadhrami

7pm Maiden (PA) Dh80,000 (T) 1,200m

Winner Heros De Lagarde, Szczepan Mazur, Ibrahim Al Hadhrami

7.30pm Handicap (TB) Dh100,000 (T) 2,400m

Winner Good Tidings, Antonio Fresu, Musabah Al Muhairi

The specs

Engine: 2.0-litre 4cyl turbo

Power: 261hp at 5,500rpm

Torque: 405Nm at 1,750-3,500rpm

Transmission: 9-speed auto

Fuel consumption: 6.9L/100km

On sale: Now

Price: From Dh117,059

UPI facts

More than 2.2 million Indian tourists arrived in UAE in 2023
More than 3.5 million Indians reside in UAE
Indian tourists can make purchases in UAE using rupee accounts in India through QR-code-based UPI real-time payment systems
Indian residents in UAE can use their non-resident NRO and NRE accounts held in Indian banks linked to a UAE mobile number for UPI transactions

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THE DETAILS

Deadpool 2

Dir: David Leitch

Starring: Ryan Reynolds, Josh Brolin, Justin Dennison, Zazie Beetz

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