Simbang Gabi is a nine-day novena of Masses leading up to Christmas, observed by Filipinos as a time of prayer and spiritual preparation. In Abu Dhabi, Filipino Catholics continue this tradition through evening Masses that fit the schedules of overseas workers.
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When and Where Simbang Gabi Is Celebrated
In Abu Dhabi, Simbang Gabi is celebrated from December 15 to 23, 2025, with evening Masses held at St. Joseph’s Cathedral and other parishes under the Apostolic Vicariate of Southern Arabia (AVOSA).
These gatherings bring together Filipinos from different parts of the city and nearby areas, creating a strong sense of faith and community during the Christmas season.
St. Joseph’s Cathedral: The Main Gathering Place
St. Joseph’s Cathedral, located on the main island of Abu Dhabi, serves as the main hub for Simbang Gabi celebrations. The cathedral holds Tagalog Simbang Gabi Masses at 8:00 PM throughout the novena period, allowing OFWs to attend after work.
As the nights progress, attendance often grows, especially on the first and final evenings, when many Filipinos aim to complete all nine nights of prayer.
St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Musaffah
For OFWs working outside the city center, St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Musaffah also hosts Simbang Gabi from December 15 to 23 at 8:15 PM. Organized by the Filipino community of the parish, the Masses are celebrated in a reflective, community-focused setting and are led this year by Fr. Franz M. Atienza, OFM Cap.
St. Therese Church
Due to large crowds at the cathedral, Simbang Gabi celebrations may also be extended to St. Therese Church, depending on ministry coordination and attendance. Both parishes follow the same December 15–23 evening schedule, making it easier for worshippers to join even when space becomes limited.
Filipinos assigned to western Abu Dhabi can also attend Simbang Gabi at St. John the Baptist Church in Ruwais (Al Dhannah City). Here, Simbang Gabi is celebrated from December 15 to 23, with evening Tagalog Masses expected around 7:30 PM, based on the parish’s regular Filipino Mass schedule. These gatherings are organized by the local Filipino community with support from parish ministries.
Why Simbang Gabi Is Held in the Evening
Unlike in the Philippines, where Simbang Gabi is commonly held before sunrise, celebrations in Abu Dhabi are scheduled in the evenings. This adjustment reflects the realities of overseas work life and allows caregivers, service staff, office workers, and other OFWs to take part without sacrificing job responsibilities.
Filipinos planning to join Simbang Gabi in Abu Dhabi are encouraged to arrive early, especially on busy nights. Arriving 30 to 45 minutes before Mass helps ensure seating and allows worshippers to join opening prayers and carols.
Parking near major churches can fill up quickly, so many attendees choose taxis or public transport when possible.
A Familiar and Welcoming Experience
Most Simbang Gabi Masses in Abu Dhabi are celebrated in Tagalog, making the experience familiar and comforting for Filipino worshippers. At the same time, the celebrations remain open to English-speaking and multicultural communities.
Choirs, church ministries, and volunteers often include OFWs from different backgrounds, reflecting the diverse Catholic community in the emirate. Many attendees bring rosaries or novena booklets, while others wear traditional Filipino attire as a quiet way of honoring the roots of Simbang Gabi.
For Filipinos living and working in Abu Dhabi, Simbang Gabi is more than a church gathering. It is a space where faith, culture, and community meet, offering comfort, connection, and a familiar rhythm during the Christmas season—no matter how far from home they may be.