A businessman in the UAE has generously donated Dh1 million to the construction efforts of St George Orthodox Cathedral’s new building. The Cathedral is among the oldest churches in the capital city.
Yusuffali M.A., Chairman and Managing Director of LuLu Group, donated generously to the capital’s historic church.
Work began on the new structure in December of the previous year, with Cathedral Vicar Rev. Father Eldho M Paul confirming that nearly 40% of the work has been completed.
“We anticipate completing the basic structure by next month and wrapping up the entire construction by April or May 2024,” he shared with Khaleej Times.
St George Orthodox Cathedral boasts a history that precedes the formation of the UAE. It was in 1970 that the UAE’s Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, inaugurated its construction in the Khalidiya region.
The church moved to the Mushrif area in 1983, and by 2004, it achieved the status of a cathedral. However, its building of 39 years was taken down in September last year, paving the way for the new construction whose foundation stone was set in December.
Father Paul expressed gratitude for the continuous support from the UAE leadership, saying, “The unwavering support from the UAE’s wise leadership and local authorities has been invaluable.”
For the time being, parishioners attend regular services in a newly constructed hall on the cathedral’s property. The entire project, divided into two phases, carries a total cost of Dh25 million.
The first phase, costing Dh10 million, saw the construction of the current hall. The upcoming second phase needs Dh15 million for the new cathedral building.
Father Paul warmly acknowledged Yusuffali’s significant donation, emphasizing his philanthropic nature, which extends beyond barriers of caste, creed, race, or religion.
“His generous contribution is a divine blessing for our new construction. We remain hopeful for more community support,” he remarked.
The cathedral caters to a parish of 1,800 families, totaling around 6,000 followers. Once finished, the new building is expected to hold up to 2,000 attendees for prayer services, added Father Paul.
