Dear Brothers and Sisters,
On Thursday, 6th December 2018, the Holy See and the Government of the UAE announced the visit of Pope Francis to Abu Dhabi from the late evening of 3rd February to midday of 5th February 2019.
We are happy and grateful that Pope Francis accepted the invitation of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces.
This historic visit, the first of a Pope to the Arabian Peninsula, represents a significant milestone in interfaith dialogue and the promotion of peace in the region. It demonstrates the commitment of both the Catholic Church and the leadership of the UAE to fostering understanding and cooperation among peoples of all faiths.
The theme of the visit, "Make me a channel of your peace," reflects the deep desire for peace that unites all people of goodwill in this region and throughout the world.
Let us pray for the success of this visit and for the continued efforts toward lasting peace in our time.
— Bishop Paul Hinder
Apostolic Vicar of Southern Arabia