Archaeologists unearth a Christian cross during the excavation of Bani Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
Sir Bani Yas Island was part of a group of churches and monasteries established, while Christianity spread across the Arabian Peninsula between the fourth and sixth centuries. There, Christians and Muslims coexisted until the ruins of the monastery were finally abandoned in the eighth century. Similar locations have been found in Umm al Quwain, Kuwait, Iran and Saudi Arabia in Abu Dhabi.
In January 2025, DCT Abu Dhabi began digging the site, and experts excavated Christian crosses on stucco patches, which are believed to have been used by monks during the period of spiritual reflection. The style of the cross is similar to that of the others in Iraq and Kuwait and could have been associated with the Oriental Church, which originated in today’s Iraq.
“The discovery of this ancient Christian cross on Sir Bani Yas Island is a powerful testament to the UAE’s extensive and ending values of coexistence and cultural openness. It stirs within us a deep sense of pride and honour and reminds us that peaceful coexistence is not a modern construct, but a principle woven into the very fabric of our region’s history,” Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, the chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, said in the statement.
The site has produced many discoveries, but this is the first large-scale excavation in 30 years. For example, in 1992, experts from the Abu Dhabi Archaeological Survey (Adias) discovered a Christian monastery dating back to the seventh and eighth centuries. Since then, they have identified a church and a monastery from the same period. They are believed to be independent spaces for high-level monks and can be used in deep contemplation and isolation.
“The discoveries found from Sir Bani Yas Island, even after 30 years of research and excavation, underscore the scale of our cultural heritage and the importance of our continued commitment to its maintenance and understanding. As DCT Abu Dhabi continues to unveil these valuable stories, we reaffirm our dedication to maintain, promote, and protect Abu Dhabi’s share of the people to continue this, and we continue this share of these people, who are a variety of people. Deepening our connection to the past and inspiring future generations to embrace the spirit of unity and mutual respect that has long defined our community,” he added.
The church and monastery have been protected by shelter since 2019 as part of the restoration led by DCT Abu Dhabi. The site has also reopened to the public with a new logo and a small exhibition of artifacts during previous excavations. A multi-faith church has also been established near the Visitor Center.
Currently, DCT Abu Dhabi archaeologists are excavating and studying the courtyard of a house near the monastery.
