Easter in Exile: Dubai’s Maltese Community Finds Alternatives as Masses Cancelled

Imagine, if you will, the bustling streets of Dubai’s Jumeirah Beach Residence, usually alive with the chatter of families and the laughter of children. This Easter, however, the atmosphere is markedly different. The usual Easter Masses at the St. Mary’s Church, a spiritual home for many Maltese expats, have been cancelled due to the war in Ukraine. But the community isn’t letting this dampen their spirits. They’re finding new ways to celebrate, adapting to circumstances beyond their control.

War in Ukraine Casts a Long Shadow

The war in Ukraine has had far-reaching consequences, even reaching the sun-kissed shores of Dubai. The UAE, while not directly involved, has taken a diplomatic stance that has led to the cancellation of Easter Masses for the Maltese community here. The Maltese Embassy in Abu Dhabi, which also covers Dubai, released a statement expressing regret for the cancellation, citing “current diplomatic circumstances”.

For Maltese expats like Maria, a long-time resident of Dubai, this news was disappointing but not entirely unexpected. “We’ve been watching the news, seeing how the war is affecting everyone. We understand the reasons behind the cancellation, even if it’s hard,” she says, sitting in her apartment overlooking the Dubai Marina.

Adapting to Circumstances

So, how does a community traditionally used to gathering together in church to celebrate Easter adapt? They turn to technology, of course. The Maltese Catholic Mission in Dubai, which organizes the Easter Masses, has been live-streaming services from their Facebook page. “It’s not the same as being there, but it’s the next best thing,” says Joseph, another Maltese expat.

Some families have also been organizing small gatherings in their homes, sharing traditional Maltese Easter dishes like ‘Figolli’ and ‘Qaghaq tal-Mina’. “We might not be together in church, but we’re still together as a community,” says Maria, smiling.

Easter might look different this year, but the Maltese community in Dubai is resilient. They’re using this time to connect with each other in new ways, to find comfort in each other’s company despite the distance. They’re looking forward to next Easter, hoping for a return to normalcy, but also appreciating the unique experiences this year has brought.

As Maria puts it, “Easter is about hope and renewal. This year, we’re finding new ways to hope and to renew our sense of community. Next year, we’ll be back in church, but for now, we’re making the best of what we have.”