Abbott played for England in the Six Nations defeat by Ireland

The 27-year-old, who has won eight caps for his country, will join the Premiership-bound club from Wasps at the end of the current season.

"I've been made a once-in-a-lifetime offer by Harlequins to go and play there next season," said Abbott.

Quins boss Dean Richards said: "Stuart is arguably the most creative centre in England at present and we are delighted to have secured his services."

Abbott helped Wasps win back-to-back Premiership finals in 2003 and 2004.

He also scored the opening try in the club's 27-20 win over Toulouse in the 2004 Heineken Cup final.

He is very strong in defence, has a tremendous amount of pace and a great reading of the game Dean Richards Harlequins director of rugby

Born in Cape Town, he represented Western Stormers in the Super 12s and South Africa Under-23s earlier in his career.

But he chose to play for England, scoring a try on his international debut against Wales in August 2003.

He also played in three World Cup matches later that year before spending two years on the international sidelines.

He eventually earned a recall for England's last Six Nations game of 2006, the 28-24 defeat to Ireland at Twickenham.

"He has had a big part to play in Wasps' dominance of the Premiership in recent years and has developed into a world-class player," added Richards.

"He is very strong in defence, has a tremendous amount of pace and a great reading of the game, making him one of the most complete footballers around."

Abbott admitted it had been a difficult decision to leave Wasps.

"I have had some of the best moments anyone could ask for in a rugby career during my time with Wasps," he said.

As a Wasps fan I hate to see him go - he's been absolutely superb From OD Have your say on Scrum V

"I would like to thank all the coaches, supporters and admin staff for their help and support over the last five years."

Wasps director of rugby Ian McGeechan said the loss of Abbott was a blow.

"There is no denying his quality as a player and we are disappointed to be losing him in the summer," said the Scot.

"However, we are lucky enough to have good strength in depth in the centres.