Maltese Expats in Dubai Face Easter Without Masses Due to War
Easter Silence in Dubai: Maltese Expat Community Faces Cancelled Masses Amid War
In the heart of Dubai’s Marina, the usually bustling Jumeirah Beach Residence is unusually quiet this Easter weekend. The reason? The cancellation of Easter Masses at the city’s St. Mary’s Church, a spiritual home for many Maltese expats, due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
War’s Ripple Effect
The war in Ukraine, thousands of miles away, has reached into the lives of Maltese expats in Dubai. The UAE, while not directly involved, has taken a stance against the conflict, leading to the cancellation of all religious services in the country over Easter. This includes the Maltese Catholic community’s traditional Easter Masses.
“It’s strange,” says Maria Borg, a Maltese expat living in Dubai for the past five years. “Easter is such a big deal for us Maltese. To not be able to go to Mass, especially with our community, it feels like a part of us is missing.”
Adapting to Change
While the cancellation of Masses has left a void, the Maltese community in Dubai is finding ways to adapt. Many have turned to online services, streaming Masses from churches back home in Malta. Others are using this time to reflect and connect with loved ones back home.
“I’ve been calling my family back in Malta more often,” says Joseph Camilleri, another Maltese expat. “We’re sharing stories, recipes, and even having virtual Easter egg hunts. It’s not the same as being together, but it’s a way to keep the spirit of Easter alive.”
As the war in Ukraine continues, the Maltese community in Dubai waits for news on when they can resume their religious services. In the meantime, they’re finding solace in each other and in the traditions they can still uphold.
“Easter is about hope and renewal,” says Borg. “Even though we can’t go to Mass, we can still hold onto that hope. And we’ll be back next Easter, stronger than ever.”
For now, the usually vibrant Dubai Marina stands quiet, a reminder of the global impact of the war in Ukraine. But for the Maltese community, Easter may be silent, but it’s far from forgotten.
