A rare Christian artifact has been uncovered on a small island in the United Arab Emirates, shedding light on a little-known era of peaceful religious coexistence in the Arabian Peninsula.

Fox News reported that the 7th- or 8th-century cross, discovered on Sir Bani Yas Island during its first archaeological excavation in three decades, offers clear evidence of early Christianity in a region now best known for tourism and luxury resorts.

The cross, revealed by Abu Dhabi’s Department of Culture and Tourism in August, was found within the remains of a centuries-old Christian monastery complex. The find marks a significant moment in the region’s archaeological history, as it ties modern-day UAE to the religious and cultural diversity of the early Islamic era.

Finding Sets Spotlight on Overlooked Religious History

Sir Bani Yas Island, located in the Persian Gulf, has long been regarded as a destination for high-end tourism, complete with wildlife reserves and luxury resorts. Hidden amid these attractions are historical ruins that point to the region’s ancient Christian communities. The latest excavation unearthed what experts believe to be a contemplative cross used by monks from the Church of the East.

The cross was originally molded in plaster and discovered in broken form at the site of a Christian monastery. After careful reconstruction by archaeologists, it was analyzed and found to resemble artifacts commonly associated with religious communities in Iraq and Kuwait. This stylistic similarity supports the conclusion that the monks who once lived there were likely part of the Church of the East, which traces its roots to ancient Mesopotamia.

According to officials, the cross is thought to have been used during moments of spiritual reflection and personal devotion. Within the monastery, archaeologists identified areas designed for monks’ seclusion and worship, indicating complex religious life in what may seem like an unexpected place.

Monastery Site Connects UAE to Ancient Christian Networks

Historical records and archaeological findings date the original construction of the monastery to between the 7th and 8th centuries. During this time, Christianity had already spread throughout the Arabian Peninsula, long before the formal rise of Islam in the region. The Christian presence on Sir Bani Yas Island reflects this broader pattern of religious diffusion and interaction.

Over the years, both Christians and Muslims lived side by side in areas such as what is now Abu Dhabi. This peaceful coexistence endured until around 800 A.D., when the monastery was gradually and voluntarily abandoned. The reasons are not specifically known, but findings suggest it was not due to conflict or force.

The unveiling of the cross comes at a time when efforts are being made to preserve and highlight this diverse history. A multi-faith church inspired by the ancient monastic site has recently been built on the island, situated next to the visitor center, to acknowledge and celebrate this heritage.

Archaeological Display Enhances Visitor Experience

Tourists visiting Sir Bani Yas Island now have direct access to the ancient site, as well as to a small exhibition featuring a range of artifacts uncovered during past and recent excavations. Among the items displayed are glass chalices, cross-shaped stuccos, and a seal marked with a scorpion motif, each offering glimpses into the lives of the island’s early Christian inhabitants.

Access to the island is available via private plane or water taxi, enabling a smoother connection between modern travelers and a treasure trove of preserved history. Visitors can walk among the preserved foundations of the church and monastery, getting a firsthand look at the past lodged within this vibrant resort destination.

The discoveries add another layer to the cultural identity of Sir Bani Yas Island. They also serve to remind both residents and tourists that the UAE’s roots are more complex and varied than often assumed.

Official Statements Emphasize Cultural Tolerance Theme

Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, chair of the Department of Culture and Tourism, described the cross as emblematic of “enduring values of coexistence and cultural openness” in the region. His remarks tie contemporary messaging about tolerance to the country’s historical record.

Al Mubarak said the discovery “stirs within us a deep sense of pride and honor” and shows that peaceful cohabitation of different religions is woven into the regional identity. This message echoes national campaigns in recent years promoting religious harmony and public openness to various faiths.

The preserved monastery is not the only recent Christian discovery in the region. In July, Egyptian authorities announced the unearthing of two ancient churches over 1,500 years old, including one featuring a mural of Jesus—further underscoring the region's multifaceted past.

Cross Discovery Adds to Middle Eastern Archaeology Boom

The finding on Sir Bani Yas Island contributes to a growing list of Christian-era archaeological sites in the Middle East and offer new material for scholarly study. Experts expect the recent discoveries to inspire further research and perhaps lead to more excavations in currently unexplored parts of the island.

Officials hope these insights will deepen public understanding of the religious and cultural dynamics that once shaped the Arabian Peninsula. As more information is uncovered, the importance of preserving these stories becomes increasingly evident.

For now, the rare plaster cross stands as more than a museum piece. It represents the region’s long-standing, often overlooked tradition of religious plurality—something UAE officials and scholars alike are eager to highlight in today’s global conversations.