Ancient Christian Cross Discovered on Sir Bani Yas Island
An archaeological dig on Sir Bani Yas Island revealed a preserved Christian cross used for monastic contemplation, tying Abu Dhabi to Christian heritage across the Gulf.
During the first major excavation in the area in over 30 years, an archaeological team on the protected Sir Bani Yas Island uncovered a Christian cross moulded on a stucco plaque. The discovery highlights an ancient Christian presence, linked to the Church of the East, with stylistic echoes of relics from Iraq and Kuwait. The fieldwork campaign that led to the discovery began in January 2025.
This Christian monastery from the 7th to 8th century CE appears to have been used by monks for spiritual contemplation and was first identified in 1992 by the Abu Dhabi Islands Archaeological Survey. Excavations have since revealed a church and monastery complex where monks are believed to have lived in seclusion.
Around the same time, similar churches and monasteries emerged across the region in Kuwait, Iran, and Saudi Arabia. The history of Christianity on the Arabian Peninsula dates back to its rise and fall between 4th and 6th centuries CE.
The site is now accessible, complete with visitor facilities, and a multi-faith church inspired by the monastery.
