Good Friday services move online as Dubai churches suspend gatherings across parishes
Orthodox and Coptic churches shift to virtual observances amid safety measures
DUBAI – As Good Friday approaches, several churches across Dubai have announced the suspension of in-person services from April 3 (Friday), in line with directives issued by UAE authorities.
The move has prompted parishes across denominations to shift worship online, with congregations encouraged to observe services from home while adhering to safety and community well-being guidelines.
The changes come during a significant moment in the Christian calendar, with Good Friday traditionally marked by large gatherings and solemn observances. However, in a coordinated response to official guidance, churches have adapted their schedules and formats to ensure continuity of worship without physical attendance.
St Mary’s Catholic Church
At St. Mary’s Catholic Church, authorities confirmed that the church will remain closed to all visitors from April 3. The Good Friday service, scheduled at 6pm, will be streamed live via the church’s official YouTube channel, allowing worshippers to participate remotely while maintaining the traditional observance of the day.
Church leaders have urged parishioners to stay away from the premises and instead join the virtual service. The online streaming ensures that the Good Friday liturgy continues uninterrupted, albeit in a digital format.
St Francis of Assisi Catholic Church
Meanwhile, St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church has cancelled all masses with immediate effect. No online streaming arrangements have been announced for its services, marking a complete pause in organised worship activities.
Church officials have requested parishioners to avoid visiting the church premises, citing the importance of community safety. The suspension reflects a precautionary approach aligned with directives issued by UAE authorities.
Mar Thoma Parish and St Thomas Orthodox Cathedral
The Mar Thoma Parish in Jebel Ali has confirmed that all weekend services, including Good Friday observances, will be conducted online. Details regarding timings and access to virtual gatherings will be shared directly with members.
Worshippers have been encouraged to continue their prayers at home and maintain a sense of unity through digital participation. The parish has also called for prayers for peace, safety, and stability across the region.
At St. Thomas Orthodox Cathedral, all services, including Good Friday, will also be conducted online. The cathedral has confirmed that service timings will remain unchanged, with parishioners invited to join virtually.
An official message emphasised adherence to instructions issued by authorities, noting that all worship and services will continue online until further notice.
St Mina Coptic Orthodox Church
In Jebel Ali, St. Mina Coptic Orthodox Church has suspended Friday’s liturgy scheduled for April 3, along with all services and activities until further notice. The church described the move as a temporary and precautionary measure taken in the interest of public safety.
Officials expressed hope that the congregation would remain safe and assured worshippers that updates would be provided as new information becomes available. Messages shared by the church also included prayers for protection and well-being.
Wider church community response
Across Dubai, several other churches have announced similar suspensions or transitions to online-only services, particularly during the Good Friday period when attendance is traditionally high. The shift follows earlier announcements that both Catholic churches in the emirate would suspend services in line with regulatory directives.
Churches including the Mar Ignatius Jacobite Syrian Orthodox Cathedral and CSI Parish at Holy Trinity Church in Oud Metha have also confirmed that services will be conducted online. In each case, authorities have reiterated that these measures are temporary and precautionary.
The coordinated response highlights a broader effort among Dubai’s religious institutions to comply with official guidelines while maintaining spiritual observance through digital platforms. Worshippers have been encouraged to remain connected online and continue observing Good Friday from home, as churches adapt to evolving safety requirements.