Note: This post was originally shared on March 30, 2024, and is being re-uploaded for Holy Week.
As Easter Sunday approaches, marking the celebration of Jesus Christ’s resurrection, many Catholics around the world engage in various traditions to reflect on their faith. Among these is the Visita Iglesia, a practice deeply rooted in Filipino Catholic tradition, yet observed by Catholics globally. This tradition, which involves visiting at least seven different churches during Holy Week, particularly on Maundy Thursday or Good Friday, offers a time for prayer, reflection, and penance. The practice traces back to a 16th-century Roman tradition initiated by St. Philip Neri, emphasizing solidarity with the sufferings of Christ on his way to crucifixion.
In the United Arab Emirates, a country known for its rich cultural tapestry and religious diversity, Catholics have the opportunity to partake in this solemn tradition by visiting some of the beautiful churches dotting the country. Here is a guide to 10 Catholic churches you can include in your Visita Iglesia itinerary in the UAE:
St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Abu Dhabi
Established in 1965, St. Joseph’s Cathedral is not only a beacon of faith but also a historical landmark in Abu Dhabi. It stands as a symbol of the enduring Catholic community in the UAE’s capital.
St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Dubai
A spiritual home to many, St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Dubai is one of the largest churches in the UAE. It welcomes thousands of worshippers every week, offering masses in multiple languages to cater to its diverse congregation.
St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, Jebel Ali
Located in the Jebel Ali area of Dubai, this church is named after St. Francis of Assisi, known for his love for all of creation. It’s a peaceful sanctuary for prayer and meditation.
St. Michael’s Catholic Church, Sharjah
St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Sharjah is a vibrant community that serves as a spiritual haven for Catholics living in the northern emirates, offering services and community programs.
St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Al Ain
In the garden city of Al Ain, St. Mary’s Catholic Church stands as a place of worship and community for Catholics, surrounded by the city’s lush landscapes.
St. Paul’s Catholic Church, Abu Dhabi
Another gem in Abu Dhabi, St. Paul’s Catholic Church is known for its active community engagement and the spiritual nourishment it offers to its parishioners.
St. Anthony of Padua Church, Ras Al Khaimah
Named after the beloved Saint Anthony of Padua, this church in Ras Al Khaimah is a focal point for the Catholic community in the area, known for its charitable activities and community services.
Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, Fujairah
Situated in Fujairah, this church is dedicated to Our Lady of Perpetual Help, offering a tranquil space for prayer and reflection amidst the emirate’s mountainous backdrop.
St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Ruwais
A relatively newer addition, St. John the Baptist Catholic Church serves the Catholic population in Ruwais, providing a spiritual oasis in the western region of Abu Dhabi.
St. Francis Church, Abu Dhabi (opened in February 2023)
The latest addition to the UAE’s Catholic landscape, St. Francis Church in Abu Dhabi, opened its doors in 2023, symbolizing the growing Catholic community in the UAE.
Even though it’s already Easter Sunday tomorrow, a day typically associated with celebration and joy in the Christian faith, it’s still possible to participate in the tradition of Visita Iglesia. Understandably, the demands of work and daily life may not always align with the specific days traditionally set aside for this practice, such as Maundy Thursday or Good Friday. However, the essence of Visita Iglesia—reflection, prayer, and drawing closer to the spiritual journey of Christ—transcends strict schedules.
