St. Paul’s Church, Abu Dhabi 🇦🇪

When you explore the religious landscape of the United Arab Emirates, a visit to St. Paul's Church (Arabic: كنيسة القديس بولس) in Abu Dhabi offers a unique glimpse into the region's diverse community. Located in the industrial area of Mussafah, this modern religious building is affiliated with the Catholic Church and holds deep significance as the second Catholic church constructed in the emirate since the historic St. Joseph Cathedral was built back in 1965.

As you visit, you can appreciate a key landmark whose history began in November 2011, when the local municipality granted the land following 18 months of careful consultation. The foundation for this sacred space was established that very same year when the first stone of the church was laid. You can see a structure that officially opened its doors when it was inaugurated and blessed on June 12, 2015. This memorable inauguration took place in the presence of esteemed local authorities, such as Shaikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, alongside prominent religious leaders like Cardinal Pietro Parolin.

Whether you are interested in local religious history or modern places of worship, St. Paul's Church stands as a meaningful site to visit in Abu Dhabi's Mussafah district.

What to see at St. Paul's Church, Abu Dhabi

• Located in the industrial area of Mussafah in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
• The second Catholic church built in the emirate after St. Joseph Cathedral in 1965.
• Land granted by the municipality in November 2011 following 18 months of consultation.
• First stone of the Catholic structure laid in late 2011.
• Inaugurated and blessed on June 12, 2015, by local and religious leaders.

Visiting tips

Keep in mind that St. Paul's Church is situated within the industrial area of Mussafah when planning your transit through Abu Dhabi.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Daytime

How to get there & what’s nearby

St. Paul's Church, Abu Dhabi is easy to reach on Abu Dhabi’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Louvre Abu Dhabi and Mary, Mother of Jesus Mosque. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Abu Dhabi travel guide.