Daijiworld Media Network - Dubai

Dubai, Apr 3: All masses and activities at two major Catholic churches in Dubai have been suspended from Friday until further notice, citing safety concerns and directives from authorities.

St Mary’s Catholic Church and St Francis of Assisi Catholic Church announced the temporary closure of their premises, urging parishioners to refrain from visiting in the interest of community well-being.

In a statement, St Francis Church said no masses or livestream services would be conducted during the closure. St Mary’s Church also confirmed suspension of on-site services, adding that Good Friday observances would be made available online.

The development comes during Holy Week, considered the holiest period in the Christian calendar, marking the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ leading up to Easter.

So far, no similar announcements have been made by churches in other emirates including Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, and Umm Al Quwain. The Apostolic Vicariate of Southern Arabia has also not issued an official statement regarding the closures.