SGOC Abu Dhabi

St. George Orthodox Cathedral Abu Dhabi (SGOCAD)

Abu Dhabi St. George Orthodox Cathedral (SGOCAD) is one of the parishes under the Brahmavar Diocese of Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church of the East (Indian Orthodox Church) founded by St.Thomas, one of the twelve Apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ , in AD 52 whose supreme head is the Catholicose of the East.

Our Cathedral members always cherish the memories of the benevolent Leader late H.H Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan the then Ruler of Abu Dhabi, who graciously bestowed a piece of land in Khalidiya to construct the first church in Abu Dhabi. He touched the hearts of all our parishioners by laying the foundation stone of the Church in Khaldiya on August 7th 1970.

The construction of the first Church was completed within one year and on 1st December 1971 the Church building was sanctified and Holy Qurbana was celebrated by H.G. Dr. Philipose Mar Theophilos Metropolitan. This eve coincided with the formation of United Arab Emirates as an independent country on December 02, 1971 and H.H Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan became the first President of U A E. The joy of our parishioners multiplied as the leader who laid foundation stone of the Church became the Leader and Father of United Arab Emirates.

The philanthropic gesture shown by the late Ruler has imprinted his image in the hearts of each and every parishioner. The gratitude cannot be limited to the Abu Dhabi parish only, since the entire community of 2 million Indian Orthodox Christian pays their tribute to the Ruling family for their whole hearted support throughout these years.

St George Orthodox Cathedral plays proactive role along with Emirate of Abu Dhabi in building the Nation through making parishioners as law abiding human beings in this part of the world. The constant church activities are intended to develop them into worthy, sincere, loyal and dedicated society playing a positive role in the development of the nation. Church assists parishioners in leading a purpose driven life and makes them more fruitful.

The Church remains open from the morning till midnight. Periodical (Yama) prayers are conducted every day. Those who visit the Church throughout the day, irrespective of caste, religion and nationality, open their hearts and find peace, comfort and solace through meditation and silent prayers.