Simbang Gabi is a nine-day series of Masses leading up to Christmas, traditionally observed by Filipinos as a time of prayer and preparation. In Dubai, this beloved tradition continues in a way that fits the lives and work schedules of overseas Filipinos.
Across Dubai and other emirates, Simbang Gabi is celebrated through evening Masses held in Catholic churches under the Apostolic Vicariate of Southern Arabia (AVOSA). Each emirate has one central parish that organizes the novena. Smaller chapels or communities usually join these main parishes rather than hosting separate Simbang Gabi schedules.
In Dubai, the largest Simbang Gabi gatherings take place at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, the main hub for Filipino Catholics in the emirate. From December 16 to 24, thousands of Filipino faithful arrive nightly after work to attend the evening Masses. Due to the volume of attendees, prayer spaces often extend to the church’s outdoor areas, with sound systems and screens set up so everyone can follow the liturgy.
Here is the schedule and list of locations for Simbang Gabi celebrations in the UAE:
Dubai
- Location: St. Mary’s Catholic Church
- Dates: December 16 – 24
- Details: Masses are held in the evening. This is the largest gathering in the emirate, with prayer spaces often extending outdoors to accommodate the crowds.
- Location: St. Francis of Assisi Church (Jebel Ali)
- Dates: December 15 – 23
- Time
- December 15–20: 8:00 PM
- December 21: 3:30 PM
- December 22–23: 8:00 PM Additional Masses:
- December 25 (Christmas Day): 1:00 PM
- January 1 (New Year’s Day): 1:00 PM
- Details: Evening novena Masses led by Father Jasper Española. The December 21 Mass is held earlier in the afternoon, with additional festive Masses on Christmas and New Year’s Day.
Abu Dhabi
- Location: St. Joseph’s Cathedral
- Dates: December 15 – 23
- Time: 8:00 PM (Tagalog Masses)
- Details: Evening novena Masses attended by Filipinos from across the capital, occasionally led by visiting Church leaders.
Sharjah
- Location: St. Michael’s Catholic Church
- Dates: December 15 – 23
- Time: 8:15 PM
- Details: Organized by the parish’s Filipino community and held inside the church for a more intimate setting.
Al Ain
- Location: St. Mary’s Catholic Church
- Dates: December 15 – 23
- Time: 8:00 PM
- Details: Part of the AVOSA-wide observance, serving Filipinos working in Al Ain and nearby areas.
Ras Al Khaimah
- Location: St. Anthony of Padua Church (Jazeera Church)
- Dates: December 15 – 23
- Time: 8:00 PM
- Details: Led by the local Filipino community, often featuring special celebrations on the final night.
Ajman, Fujairah, Umm Al Quwain
- Location: No dedicated Catholic parish
- Details: Faithful from these emirates usually attend Simbang Gabi in Dubai, Sharjah, or Ras Al Khaimah.
Note on Timing: Unlike the traditional dawn masses in the Philippines, Simbang Gabi in the UAE is primarily scheduled in the evenings. This adjustment accommodates the work schedules of overseas Filipinos—including caregivers, service workers, and office staff—allowing them to attend after their shifts and keep the tradition alive.
Filipinos planning to join Simbang Gabi anywhere in the UAE are encouraged to check parish announcements, arrive early on busy nights, and prepare for large crowds. Across the country, Simbang Gabi remains a shared Filipino experience that brings faith, community, and a sense of home during the Christmas season.