Churches in Abu Dhabi: 14 Iconic Religious Sites to Explore

Abu Dhabi is a shining example of religious diversity in the Middle East, offering a welcoming environment for Christian worshippers. The city is home to dozens of churches, catering to a variety of denominations including Catholic, Orthodox, and evangelical communities.

For Indian tourists and other visitors, Abu Dhabi provides easily accessible and vibrant spiritual spaces to attend services, celebrate religious events, and connect with local congregations.

14 Best Churches in Abu Dhabi to Visit

1. St. Joseph’s Cathedral

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St. Joseph’s Cathedral is the oldest and one of the most historically significant Catholic churches in Abu Dhabi. Founded in 1965, it is the biggest church in Abu Dhabi, serving as the spiritual home for over 100,000 Catholics from diverse countries and cultures.

Its simple yet dignified architecture makes it a beautiful church in Abu Dhabi and a must-visit for those exploring the history of Christianity in the Emirates.

Type: Roman Catholic
Location: Al Mushrif, 17th Street, between Old Airport Road and Karamah Street
Distance from Nearest Airport: Approximately 30 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport
Timings: Open daily from 6:00 am to 9:30 pm
Mass Timing: Multiple daily masses in various languages, including English, Arabic, Tagalog, Malayalam, Tamil, Konkani, and others
Contact Number: +971 2 446 1929
Website:https://www.stjosephsabudhabi.org/
Email: [email protected]

Highlights: Seat of the Apostolic Vicar of Southern Arabia; the original church was built on the Corniche in 1965 with land donated by Sheikh Shakhbut bin Sultan Al Nahyan; features beautiful stained glass windows depicting biblical scenes; serves a massive expatriate community with masses in over 10 languages

Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings for quiet reflection or Friday/Sunday for community experience
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible with ramps and ample parking
Visitor Tips: Dress modestly – shoulders and knees should be covered; arrive at least 30 minutes early for popular masses as seating fills quickly; check the website for up-to-date mass schedules in your preferred language; photography is restricted during services

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2. St. Paul’s Church, Musaffah

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St. Paul’s Church caters to the Catholic community in Musaffah, Abu Dhabi’s industrial hub. With mass timings in multiple languages, it provides essential spiritual support for thousands of workers, including the Indian community.

It is often recommended as one of the best churches in Abu Dhabi for those seeking accessible services.

Type: Roman Catholic
Location: M34, Plot 12, Musaffah, behind KM Hypermarket
Distance from Nearest Airport: Approximately 25 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport
Timings: Open daily
Mass Timing: Multiple masses throughout the week in various languages
Contact Number: +971 2 446 1114
Website:https://www.stpaulsabudhabi.org/
Email: [email protected]

Highlights: Modern facilities designed to serve the industrial area community; spacious sanctuary accommodating large congregations; active outreach programs for workers; community activities and fellowship opportunities; convenient location for those working in Musaffah

Best Time to Visit: Friday and Sunday services
Accessibility: Good parking facilities, accessible for people with disabilities
Visitor Tips: Industrial area location means you should plan transportation carefully; taxis are readily available to the church; check the parish website before visiting for updated mass schedules; many Indian workers attend, so you’ll likely find services in Indian languages

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3. St. Andrew’s Church

St. Andrew’s Church functions as a unique multi-denominational hub, hosting over 40 Christian congregations under one roof. This makes it one of the most diverse worship places on any list of churches in Abu Dhabi, supporting Orthodox, Protestant, and evangelical groups alike.

The church campus serves as a central gathering place for various Christian traditions, including Orthodox, Protestant, and evangelical groups.

Type: Anglican (hosting many other denominations)
Location: Al Mushrif, near Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Mosque
Distance from Nearest Airport: Approximately 25 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport
Timings: Daily, with services throughout the week by different congregations
Mass Timing: Anglican services on Fridays and Sundays; other denominations have varying schedules
Contact Number: +971 2 446 1631
Website:https://standrewauh.org/index.html

Highlights: Home to over 40 congregations, including Greek Orthodox, Mar Thoma, Coptic, Korean Methodist, and many others; vibrant multicultural Christian hub in the heart of Abu Dhabi; large campus with multiple worship spaces; represents the diversity of Christianity in the UAE; regular community events and activities

Best Time to Visit: Fridays and Sundays, but check specific congregation timings
Accessibility: Fully accessible facilities with a large campus and parking
Visitor Tips: Check the specific congregation schedule before visiting; church compounds get very busy on weekends; parking can be challenging during peak times; the church hosts many Indian denominations; visitors are welcome at most services

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4. Evangelical Community Church (ECC)

Evangelical Community Church offers English-language services and stands out as a popular congregation for contemporary worship.

It attracts Indian expatriates and tourists, making it one of the best church in Abu Dhabi for English-speaking visitors.

Type: Evangelical/Interdenominational
Location: 17th Street, Al Mushrif
Distance from Nearest Airport: Approximately 30 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport
Timings: Main service on Sunday at 10:00 am
Mass Timing: Sunday 10:00 am English service
Contact Number: +971 2 546 8279
Website:https://tec-ad.org/
Email: [email protected]

Highlights: Multi-ethnic, English-speaking congregation; strong focus on Bible teaching and community; contemporary worship style; active youth and children’s programs; regular small group meetings throughout the week

Best Time to Visit: Sunday mornings
Accessibility: Accessible facilities, family-friendly
Visitor Tips: Arrive early for parking; casual but modest dress is appropriate; newcomers are warmly welcomed; contemporary worship music style; coffee and fellowship time after the service

5. St. Francis Church (Abrahamic Family House)

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St. Francis Church, part of the Abrahamic Family House on Saadiyat Island, represents a groundbreaking interfaith approach. Alongside a mosque and a synagogue, it is a beautiful church in Abu Dhabi symbolizing harmony among the Abrahamic faiths and is a must-see for architecture and spirituality enthusiasts.

Type: Roman Catholic
Location: Abrahamic Family House, Saadiyat Island
Distance from Nearest Airport: Approximately 30 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport
Timings: Open daily
Mass Timing: As per the parish schedule
Contact Number: +971 600 565 566
Website: https://www.abrahamicfamilyhouse.ae/
Email: [email protected]

Highlights: Part of the innovative Abrahamic Family House interfaith complex; stunning modern architectural design by David Adjaye; symbol of religious tolerance and coexistence; educational exhibits about Christianity; regular tours explaining the significance of the project

Best Time to Visit: Weekends, but check for scheduled tours
Accessibility: Fully accessible modern facilities
Visitor Tips: Security checks at the entrance; consider combining with a visit to other Abrahamic Family House sites; book tours in advance if possible; photography is permitted in designated areas; modest dress is required

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6. St. George Orthodox Cathedral

St. George Orthodox Cathedral serves the Indian Orthodox community, offering services primarily in Malayalam. As one of the most established churches on any list of churches in Abu Dhabi, it is especially welcoming for visitors from Kerala.

Type: Indian Orthodox
Location: Musaffah
Distance from Nearest Airport: Approximately 25 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport
Timings: Open daily
Mass Timing: Sunday services (check with the parish for specific times)
Contact Number: +971 2 446 4564/ 65
Website:https://www.sgocad.com/
Email: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected]

Highlights: One of the oldest Orthodox churches in the UAE; capacity for over 2,000 worshippers; traditional Orthodox architecture and iconography; strong connection to the Kerala community; regular cultural and religious events

Best Time to Visit: Sunday mornings
Accessibility: Accessible facilities with a large parking area
Visitor Tips: Services are primarily in Malayalam; English services are also available; traditional Orthodox worship style; women typically cover their heads during services; photography may be restricted during worship

7. Abu Dhabi Assembly of God Church

Abu Dhabi Assembly of God Church offers vibrant Pentecostal worship services and is recognized as one of the best churches in Abu Dhabi for contemporary Christian expression, drawing many Indian Christians.

Type: Pentecostal
Location: Al Mushrif
Distance from Nearest Airport: Approximately 30 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport
Timings: Weekly services
Mass Timing: Fridays and Sundays (check website for current schedule)
Contact Number: +971 501 223 293
Website: http://www.adag.ae/
Email: [email protected]

Highlights: Vibrant worship style with contemporary music; active youth and outreach programs; multicultural congregation; charismatic worship tradition; regular Bible studies and prayer meetings

Best Time to Visit: Friday services
Accessibility: Accessible facilities
Visitor Tips: Check the website for special events; casual but modest dress is appropriate; expect contemporary worship music; services may run longer than in some traditional churches; newcomers are warmly welcomed

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8. Brethren Assembly

The Brethren Assembly provides a more intimate worship setting, with bilingual services in English and Malayalam. This accessible church is often recommended for Indian visitors and those looking for a smaller, community-focused congregation.

Type: Brethren
Location: Al Mushrif (TEC Compound)
Distance from Nearest Airport: Approximately 30 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport
Timings: Sunday 8:00-10:00 pm (English/Malayalam)
Mass Timing: Sunday evenings

Highlights: Small, close-knit community; bilingual services in English and Malayalam; traditional Brethren worship style; focus on Bible study and teaching; family-oriented fellowship

Best Time to Visit: Sunday evenings
Accessibility: Accessible facilities
Visitor Tips: Check with TEC for the exact location within the compound; simple, traditional worship style; communion service is central to worship; modest dress is appreciated; smaller congregation offers more personal connections

9. Grace Church Abu Dhabi

Grace Church Abu Dhabi provides contemporary evangelical worship services in English, making it one of the popular Christian churches in Abu Dhabi for expatriates seeking modern worship styles.

The church attracts a diverse international congregation, including many Indians who prefer English services.

Type: Evangelical
Location: TEC Compound, Al Mushrif
Distance from Nearest Airport: Approximately 30 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport
Timings: Saturday 4:00 pm
Mass Timing: Saturday 4:00 pm
Contact Number: +971 557 907 989
Website:https://www.teluguchurchabudabhi.org/
Email: [email protected]

Highlights: English-speaking congregation; contemporary worship style; strong teaching focus; active children’s ministry; regular small groups and Bible studies

Best Time to Visit: Saturday afternoons
Accessibility: Accessible facilities
Visitor Tips: Family-friendly environment; newcomers are especially welcomed; casual but modest dress is appropriate; contemporary music and worship style; coffee and fellowship time after the service

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10. New Life Church

New Life Church offers another option for international Christians seeking contemporary worship among famous churches in Abu Dhabi. With its diverse congregation and lively services, it’s particularly popular with younger Christians and families.

New Creation Church Abu Dhabi is a modern and growing congregation, attracting a dynamic community of worshippers seeking engaging services and spiritual growth, making it a noteworthy addition to any list of churches in Abu Dhabi.

Type: Evangelical
Location: TEC Compound, Al Mushrif
Distance from Nearest Airport: Approximately 30 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport
Timings: Sunday 4:30–7:15 pm
Mass Timing: Sunday evenings
Website: https://www.newlifechurch.ae/
Email: [email protected]

Highlights: International congregation; lively worship style; strong focus on community and relationships; regular special events and activities; active youth ministry

Best Time to Visit: Sunday evenings
Accessibility: Accessible facilities
Visitor Tips: Arrive early for parking; casual but modest dress is appropriate; contemporary worship music; friendly, welcoming atmosphere for visitors; services may include extended worship time

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11. Christ Community Telugu Church

Christ Community Telugu Church provides another option for Telugu speakers looking for top churches to visit in Abu Dhabi. With morning services, it offers an alternative schedule to the United Telugu Gospel Church.

Type: Telugu Evangelical
Location: TEC Compound, Al Mushrif
Distance from Nearest Airport: Approximately 30 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport
Timings: Sunday 10:30 am
Mass Timing: Sunday mornings

Highlights: Telugu-language services; morning worship option; family-oriented ministry; cultural connection for Telugu speakers; regular fellowship activities

Best Time to Visit: Sunday mornings
Accessibility: Accessible facilities
Visitor Tips: Services conducted in Telugu; traditional and contemporary worship elements; particularly welcoming to families; cultural events during major Christian festivals; morning timing alternative to evening Telugu services

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12. New Vision Tamil Church

New Vision Tamil Church serves the Tamil-speaking Christian community, making it a key destination for Tamil-speaking Indians seeking worship places for Christians in Abu Dhabi.

Services are conducted in Tamil, creating a familiar worship environment for visitors from Tamil Nadu.

Type: Tamil Evangelical
Location: TEC Compound, Al Mushrif
Distance from Nearest Airport: Approximately 30 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport
Timings: Sunday 5:30 pm
Mass Timing: Sunday evenings
Contact Number: +971 50 531 7044
Website:http://www.abudhabitamilchurch.com/
Email: [email protected]

Highlights: Tamil-language services; combination of traditional and contemporary elements; strong community focus; cultural connection for Tamil speakers; regular fellowship activities

Best Time to Visit: Sunday evenings
Accessibility: Accessible facilities
Visitor Tips: Services conducted in Tamil; traditional Tamil Christian music elements; open to all, especially Tamil-speaking visitors; cultural events around major Christian festivals; strong connection to Tamil Christian traditions

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FAQs

How many churches are in Abu Dhabi?

There are over 40 churches in Abu Dhabi, serving diverse denominations and languages. Most churches in Abu Dhabi are located in designated areas like Al Mushrif and Musaffah, allocated by the government.

Can Christians pray in public in Abu Dhabi?

Christians in Abu Dhabi can practice their faith freely within designated churches. Public worship is discouraged, but private prayer is allowed. Organized religious activities should occur only in approved venues, respecting the UAE’s religious guidelines.

Can Christians get married in Abu Dhabi?

Yes, Christians can get married in churches in Abu Dhabi, but must also register the marriage with civil authorities. Each church has specific requirements, so couples should consult their chosen church in advance.

What are the 4 largest churches in Abu Dhabi?

The four largest famous churches in Abu Dhabi are St. Joseph’s Cathedral, St. Paul’s Church in Musaffah, St. Andrew’s Church, and St. George Orthodox Cathedral, each serving large congregations across various denominations.

Are there any Catholics in Abu Dhabi?

Yes, Abu Dhabi has a large Catholic population. St. Joseph’s Cathedral serves over 100,000 expatriate Catholics. Catholic churches in Abu Dhabi offer masses in multiple languages for diverse communities from countries like India and the Philippines.

Can tourists attend church services in Abu Dhabi?

Yes, tourists can attend services at Christian churches in Abu Dhabi. Churches are welcoming, but visitors should dress modestly, respect customs, and check service times and languages in advance for a smooth experience.

Do I need permission to visit a church in Abu Dhabi?

No special permission is needed to visit churches in Abu Dhabi. Visitors should respect worship times, and during major holidays like Christmas and Easter, churches in Abu Dhabi may have crowd control measures due to high attendance.

Is there parking available at churches in Abu Dhabi?

Most historic churches in Abu Dhabi offer parking, but spaces fill quickly during peak services. St. Joseph’s Cathedral and St. Andrew’s Church have larger lots. Carpooling, taxis, or public transport are recommended on busy days.