In the heart of Dubai’s Burj Khalifa district, the usually bustling St. Mary’s Catholic Church stands unusually quiet this Easter. The grand, gold-domed building, a beacon for Malta’s expat community in the UAE, is closed. Its Easter Masses, cancelled. Not due to COVID-19 this time, but because of a war thousands of miles away.

War in Europe, Silence in Dubai

The Russian-Ukrainian conflict has reached into the UAE, echoing its impact on Maltese expats in Dubai. The Russian Orthodox Church, under pressure from the UAE government, has suspended services. As a result, the Catholic Church, out of solidarity, has also cancelled its Easter Masses. “It’s rare,” says Father Mark, a Maltese priest who has served in Dubai for a decade.

“We’re used to celebrating Easter together, a mix of Maltese, Italians, Filipinos, Indians – a real Maltese melting pot. This year, our altars will be silent.”

Malta’s Expat Community: Awaiting News

Malta’s expat community in Dubai, numbering around 2,000, is left in limbo. Easter, a time for family and faith, is now a waiting game. “We’re hoping for updates soon,” says Maria, a Maltese teacher living in Dubai Marina. “We’re used to adapting, but this is different. It’s not just about us, but our children too. They’re missing their Maltese Easter traditions.”

Malta’s Foreign Affairs Ministry has been in touch with the community, assuring them of support. “We’re monitoring the situation closely,” a spokesperson says. “Our embassy in Abu Dhabi is in constant contact with our nationals in the UAE.”

Virtual Easter: A New Tradition

With physical services off the table, the community is turning to virtual alternatives. The Maltese Catholic Mission in Dubai is streaming Masses on YouTube. Father Mark leads the services, his voice echoing in the empty church. “It’s not the same,” he says. “But it’s a way to keep our community together.”

Back home in Malta, the community is rallying. The Archdiocese of Malta is streaming its Easter services, inviting Dubai’s expats to join virtually. “We’re one community, no matter where we are,” says Archbishop Charles Scicluna.

Easter in Dubai this year is a test of resilience. A test of faith. A test of community. But as the sun sets on the Burj Khalifa, the Maltese community stands united, ready to face whatever comes next.