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Ecotourism Areas Details

Sir Bani Yas Monastery and Church

Originating around 1,400 years ago and representing just one of a number of archaeological sites on Sir Bani Yas Island, are the remains of a Christian monastery covering a large area of approximately 70 metres by 70 metres.

 

Located within its walls are a courtyard and centrally positioned church, in addition to external yards and rooms. Excavation work has unearthed artefacts such as those used in ceremony and decorative motifs constituting grape vine and Christian crosses, similar to those used by the Nestorian church in the Gulf.

 

Parallel to the religious significance, the existence of a monastery and church offers evidence of the passage and settlement of different creeds and cultures. The site also points at the role Sir Bani Yas represented as a trade route from Iraq, heading east to India and possibly further onto China.


Emirate

Abu Dhabi.


Access

Through bookings at Anantara Hotels located on the island.


Nature of the Area

Land


Primary Classification

Archaeological sites and historical monuments.


Nearest city or town

Ruwais.


Events and activities

Discovering the remains of a Nestorian Christian monastery and church founded in the sixth or seventh century AD.


GPS Location

How to get here

The archaeological site is located on Sir Bani Yas island. Access requires taking a boat from Jebel Dhanna, approximately 250 km west of Abu Dhabi, on the Abu Dhabi-Ghweifat International Highway - E11. Head toward Tarif then Al Mirfa and Baynunah, then Ruwais. After Ruwais take exit 113 for Sir Bani Yas Island. At Jebel Dhanna jetty it is possible to park the car.


Recommended Visit Season

All year round.


Working Days

To be confirmed by contacting Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Resorts.


Entrance fees

To be confirmed by contacting Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Resorts.


What To Take

Appropriate outdoors clothing and footwear, to walk around the archaeological site.


Website

Contact

Enquiries on Sir Bani Yas Church and Monastery can be made through calling Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Resorts +971 2 801 5400.


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