Does Dubai Have Catholic Churches?

By Anna Duncan

Dubai is a diverse city with people from all around the world living and working here. As a result, there are numerous places of worship for different religions, including Christianity.

The question that comes up often is whether Dubai has Catholic churches. The answer is yes, there are several Catholic churches in Dubai.

History of Catholicism in Dubai

Catholicism has been practiced in Dubai for many years. In fact, the first Catholic church was built in 1967 and was named St. Mary’s Church. It was established by the Apostolic Vicariate of Arabia, which is an organization that oversees the Catholic Church’s activity in the United Arab Emirates and other countries in the Arabian Peninsula.

Catholic Churches in Dubai

There are several Catholic churches in Dubai where people can attend mass and other religious services. Some of them include:

1. St. Mary’s Church

St. Mary’s Church, also known as the Church of St. Mary, is located in Oud Metha Road and is one of the oldest churches in Dubai. It offers masses both in English and Arabic.

2. St Francis of Assisi Catholic Church

St Francis of Assisi Catholic Church is located near Jebel Ali Village and offers daily masses in English.

3. Holy Trinity Catholic Church

Holy Trinity Catholic Church is located near Emirates Towers metro station and offers masses both in English and Arabic.

What to Expect When Visiting a Catholic Church

If you have never been to a Catholic church before, you might be wondering what to expect when you visit one. Firstly, dress modestly as a sign of respect for the religious environment you’re entering into. Secondly, when entering a church you’ll notice it’s usually divided into two sections: the nave (where attendees sit) and the altar (where the priest performs mass).

During mass, you can expect to hear readings from the Bible, hymns, and prayers. The service usually lasts for about an hour, but it may vary depending on the day. The most important part of Catholic mass is receiving communion, which involves eating a small piece of bread (the host) that represents the body of Christ.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Dubai does have Catholic churches where people can practice their faith. Mary’s Church, St Francis of Assisi Catholic Church and Holy Trinity Catholic Church are just a few examples. If you’re planning to attend a Catholic church in Dubai for the first time, dress modestly and expect to hear readings from the Bible, hymns, and prayers during mass.