Cardinal Tagle Leads Simbang Gabi for Filipinos in the UAE
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The beloved Filipino cardinal brings Simbang Gabi closer to home for Filipinos in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
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Simbang Gabi feels extra special this year for Filipinos in the UAE. Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle is in the country to lead Simbang Gabi Masses, drawing large crowds of Filipino worshippers eager to celebrate the Christmas tradition with one of the most familiar faces in the Catholic Church.
A familiar face for Filipinos abroad
Cardinal Tagle, a former Archbishop of Manila and now Pro-Prefect of the Vatican’s Dicastery for Evangelization, is known for his warm, down-to-earth style and homilies that feel more like heartfelt stories than formal sermons. That connection is exactly why his visit means so much to overseas Filipinos.
His presence resonates strongly with migrant communities, many of whom see Simbang Gabi as a spiritual anchor — and a reminder of home.
Masses in Dubai and Abu Dhabi
The cardinal arrived earlier this week and was welcomed by church leaders and Filipino priests serving in the UAE. He presided over Simbang Gabi Mass at St. Mary’s Parish in Dubai on Tuesday, December 16, at 8:00 p.m.
He is also set to celebrate Mass in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday, December 17, at 8:00 p.m., giving more Filipinos the chance to take part in the tradition.
More than just a visit
Beyond the Masses, Cardinal Tagle’s schedule includes meetings with Bishop Paolo Martinelli, Apostolic Vicar of Southern Arabia, and members of the Apostolic Vicariate. The goal is to better understand the daily realities and pastoral needs of Catholics living and working in the Gulf.
Why this matters
Filipinos form a huge part of parish life in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and Simbang Gabi remains one of the most cherished traditions of the season. Cardinal Tagle’s visit has turned the celebration into something deeper — blending faith, Filipino identity, and the comfort of familiar traditions, even while far from home.