Dubai’s St. Mary’s and St. Francis churches resume all activities after three months of restrictions, restoring parish life for thousands.
Newsroom (02/07/2026 Gaudium Press ) Dubai’s two principal Catholic parishes have fully reopened following three months of restrictions imposed during a period of heightened regional tensions, restoring normal religious life for thousands of worshippers across the emirate.
Bishop Paolo Martinelli, Apostolic Vicar of Southern Arabia, announced the complete resumption of activities at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Oud Metha and St. Francis of Assisi Church in Jebel Ali. In a pastoral message to parishioners, he welcomed the development and expressed gratitude to both civil authorities and the faithful for their cooperation during the restrictions.
“I wish to express my sincere gratitude to the authorities, who have carefully watched over our safety during a particularly delicate time and have now deemed that the moment has come for the full resumption of Christian life in our parish communities,” Bishop Martinelli wrote.
The reopening marks the end of a challenging period that began on April 3, 2026, when both churches were instructed to suspend in-person services during Holy Week, the most significant observance in the Christian calendar. The measures were introduced following safety directives from Dubai’s Community Development Authority amid escalating regional instability.
The restrictions coincided with the period in which the UAE came under hostile attacks from Iran during the US-Israel-Iran conflict. As a precautionary response, authorities moved to limit large public gatherings across Dubai. The measures affected not only churches but also temples and gurudwaras, significantly impacting faith communities throughout the city.
Among the most notable consequences was the disruption of Easter celebrations, which traditionally attract thousands of worshippers. St. Mary’s Catholic Church adapted by livestreaming its Good Friday and Easter liturgies through YouTube, allowing parishioners to participate remotely. St. Francis of Assisi Church, however, adopted a stricter approach and did not provide livestream alternatives during the suspension period.
A partial reopening followed on April 11 under a range of precautionary conditions. Attendance was controlled through mandatory online registration, age-based restrictions were introduced, and services were limited to indoor settings. These measures remained in force for approximately three months before authorities approved a full return to normal parish operations.
In his message, Bishop Martinelli also paid tribute to parish priests and clergy members who continued pastoral ministry despite the limitations. He thanked them for their dedication in supporting parishioners and ensuring spiritual care remained available throughout the period of disruption.
“I thank you for never failing to offer pastoral care to the people entrusted to you,” he wrote.
The bishop additionally acknowledged the commitment and patience shown by parishioners, particularly children and families, who accepted the restrictions and adapted to unprecedented circumstances.
“I am certain that this witness of faith, obedience, and perseverance will bear fruit in your lives,” he said.
With all parish activities now restored, the reopening signals a return to full community engagement, including worship services, pastoral programs, and other church-based activities that form a central part of Catholic life in Dubai.
While celebrating the return to normality, Bishop Martinelli encouraged parishioners to maintain the spirit of responsibility demonstrated throughout the restrictions. He urged members of the community to continue showing mutual respect and care while observing the laws and regulations of the country.
As Dubai’s Catholic community resumes its regular rhythm of worship and fellowship, church leaders hope the reopening will strengthen parish life after a period marked by uncertainty, sacrifice, and resilience. The return of unrestricted activities at St. Mary’s and St. Francis of Assisi represents not only the restoration of religious services but also the renewal of community life for thousands of faithful across the emirate.
- Raju Hasmukh with files from Khaleej Times
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