A Closer Look: Inside Abu Dhabi's Abrahamic Family House

A Closer Look is The National's show where we take an in-depth look at one of the main stories of the week.

Abu Dhabi's Abrahamic Family House is already welcoming worshippers to its mosque, church and synagogue, and from March 1 visitors can also tour the premises.

The multi-faith complex has attracted global attention for its message of religious tolerance as well as its striking architectural design.

Each building is a perfect 30-metre cube, with austere interiors, and can accommodate between 200 and 320 worshippers, depending on whether they are seated or standing shoulder to shoulder.

The National's reporter Saeed Saeed speaks to host Sarah Forster about why the complex was built, its most striking features and what a visit might entail.

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What to expect at Abu Dhabi's Abrahamic Family House

First glimpse inside Abu Dhabi's Abrahamic Family House

Abrahamic Family House — in pictures

The Moses Ben Maimon Synagogue on Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, is one of three places of worship celebrating the Abrahamic religions. All photos: Khushnum Bhandari / The National

The synagogue's ceiling

The alter is inscribed with the Ten Commandments

There is room for 200 people to worship inside the synagogue

The seven arches outside the Eminence Ahmed El Tayeb Mosque represent the days of the week

The mosque has been designed with acoustics in mind

The mosque will be open to worshippers from March 1

St Francis Church can host 300 worshippers

The Catholic church welcomes all denominations of the Christian faith