In the heart of Dubai’s Jumeirah Beach Residence, the usually bustling St. Mary’s Catholic Church stands eerily quiet this Easter. The grand wooden doors, usually thrown open to welcome the faithful, are closed. No Mass will be held here this weekend. The reason? A war thousands of miles away.

Malta’s strong ties with the UAE have seen its community in Dubai grow significantly over the years. Many Maltese expats call Jumeirah their home, with St. Mary’s Church their spiritual anchor. But this Easter, the church’s pews will remain empty, its altar silent. The cancellation of Masses is a direct consequence of the war in Ukraine, with the UAE joining international sanctions against Russia.

You see, the priest who usually leads the Maltese community in Dubai is Russian. With the UAE implementing travel bans on Russian nationals, he’s been unable to return to Dubai after a visit home. The church, following Vatican guidelines, has had to cancel Masses until further notice.

Back in Malta, the news has sparked a wave of solidarity. The Maltese Catholic Church has offered to help out, with Archbishop Charles Scicluna extending an open invitation to Maltese expats in Dubai to join Easter services in Malta. “Our community in Dubai is like a branch of our local church,” he said. “We’re here for them, just as they’ve been there for us.”

But for many Maltese expats in Dubai, returning home for Easter isn’t an option. They’re left to find alternative ways to celebrate. Some are planning potluck dinners at home, others are joining online Masses broadcast from Malta. A few are even considering a DIY Easter procession along The Walk at JBR, complete with candles and hymns.

Despite the circumstances, the Maltese community in Dubai remains resilient. “Easter is about hope and renewal,” says Maria, a Maltese expat who’s lived in Dubai for a decade. “This year, we might not have Mass, but we’ll still find ways to celebrate. And we’ll pray for peace, both in Ukraine and in our own community.”

In the meantime, St. Mary’s Church stands as a silent witness to the times. Its bells may not ring this Easter, but its spirit lives on in the hearts of the Maltese community in Dubai. And like the Phoenix, they too will rise again.