Sir Bani Yas Island: Abu Dhabi's Tourism Development and Investment Company (TDIC) announced the opening of an archeological site of a Christian monastery to the public on Desert Islands on Saturday.
The pre-Islamic monastery, which is believed to have been built around 600 AD on Sir Bani Yas Island is the only known Christian archeological site in the UAE, the archeologists and officials of the TDIC told reporters during a media tour to the site on Saturday.
The site was initially discovered on the 87 square kilometer island during excavations in 1992. Now almost two decades since its discovery, and more than a thousand years since it was built, the general public can visit the site and experience another piece of the rich tapestry that makes up the UAE's fascinating history, the officials said.
"A new phase of work is currently underway by archaeologists, and treasures are still being unearthed, making the site a significant focal point for history enthusiasts worldwide," they said.
Shaikh Sultan Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, Chairman of TDIC, said: "We are delighted to be opening this ancient site to the public, which gives visitors an insight into the rich history of Sir Bani Yas Island and the UAE. We are proud of our heritage and are therefore focused on creating a multi-experience tourism destination where guests are able to enjoy a variety of activities, while protecting and preserving the history and culture of our country, as well as the natural environment of the island," he said.
