Is Christianity Allowed in Dubai?
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) might come across as a predominantly Muslim world, but the country’s religion-friendly laws are appealing to a growing number of Christian residents, from tourists to long-term residents. Dubai, located in the UAE, is a global hub of trade, tourism and business, but can be a difficult place for non-Muslims. With this in mind, is Christianity allowed in Dubai?
According to government records, 85% of the population in Dubai is Muslim. While no Islamic law explicitly bans Christians, Muslims are expected to adhere to the country’s official religion, causing obstacles for some Christian travelers or citizens. All forms of religious expression are regulated and must be in accordance with accepted forms of beliefs that can be distinguished from tradition, culture or customs.
In some areas of the UAE, the teachings of Islam are used to enforce provisions in the country’s laws. Sharia law, which is based on the Quran, is the basis for civil laws in the UAE and holds precedence over laws that are not related to religious matters. This means that certain aspects of Christianity are not accepted in places where Islamic law is used. For example, a non-Muslim may not be allowed to proselytize.
Despite this reality, Christianity is allowed in Dubai. The UAE has taken numerous steps to promote religious freedom, including resolution No. 39 from the Council of Ministers, which ensured religious freedom for foreigners who are visiting or residing there. Other religions are also allowed in the country, with churches for Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians.
The UAE also supports interfaith dialogue. Each year, the government sponsors the World Tolerance Summit, which promotes religious unity and understanding between different faiths. In addition, UAE laws are much more lenient towards Christianity than other parts of the Middle East. While there are still restrictions such as the ban against proselytizing, they are much less severe than the laws in neighboring countries.
Indeed, despite the country’s Muslim majority, the UAE is a far more tolerant and open place than most of its neighbors. Foreigners who live there are able to practice their own religion without fear of recrimination. As long as they abide by local laws and respect the beliefs of the majority, all residents of the UAE can practice their faith as they wish.
Christian Activities in Dubai
Though there is no law explicitly banning Christians from living in Dubai, there is still a strong presence of the Christian faith. Besides the churches, Christian activities and events are regularly held in establishments, such as retreats and masses.
The Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing has been working on campaigns to attract more religious tourists, and offers multiple Christian-themed activities. Activities such as Christian-themed art galleries, music events and retreats, as well as restaurants with religious decorations and majority Christian-themed gatherings.
Christian organizations, such as the Bible Society, often operate in the country, giving out Bibles and providing spiritual guidance, and churches are actively recruiting Christians for services. Although proselytizing is illegal, there are still Christian missionary activities in some parts of Dubai.
Conclusion of Christianity in Dubai
The reality is that Christianity is allowed in Dubai, although certain activities related to it are restricted. But far from being a hidden underground religion, Christianity is an accepted part of the social and religious fabric of the UAE. The country’s open attitude towards other faiths has helped it become one of the most sought-after destinations for travelers and expatriates alike.
Thus, Christians are allowed to fellowship freely and to attend church with no fear of discrimination. Moreover, the acceptance of other religions has enabled Christian immigrants to find a safe haven as well as an inclusive and tolerant home. Despite being a predominantly Muslim country, the UAE has embraced and respected other faiths, allowing Christianity to thrive in Dubai.
Christian Communities in the UAE
Christianity in Dubai has evolved over the years. Today, there are various Christian organisations that promote religious education and spiritual development through retreats and bible studies, as well as other activities.
The most active Christian communities in Dubai include the Evangelical community, the Catholic community, the Orthodox Church community, the Baptist community, and other smaller active churches. There are also international churches that have branches in the UAE. For example, the Anglican Church of the UAE encompasses several British and American congregations.
The community is vibrant and cohesive, with formal congregations and informal fellowship groups. In addition, the community is served by numerous Christian charities, aid agencies, and organisations, such as the Bible Society, which provide Bibles, religious materials and spiritual guidance to expatriate Christians.
Humanitarian Activities of the Christian Community
The UAE’s Christian community has taken part in numerous humanitarian activities such as helping orphanages, providing housing and education, teaching English and other languages, helping unemployed people find employment, and even providing training in how to start small businesses.
The Christian community has also formed various communities, such as the Emirates Church Network and the Pentecostal Church, that raise charitable funds and work with churches around the world. In addition, the Christian community has engaged in various interfaith dialogues in order to promote tolerance, understanding and coexistence amongst different religions.
The Church of Jesus in Dubai is helping the city to become an increasingly tolerant and open place by bringing people of different faiths together. The church has organised the first interfaith dialogue in the country and has diverse congregations of Roman Catholic, Protestant and Orthodox Christians.
Media Presence of Christianity in Dubai
The media presence of Christianity in Dubai is on the rise. There has been an increased presence of Christian publications and websites, and television channels dedicated to Christian programming. The latter have been used to spread the teachings of Christianity, as well as promote fellowship, benevolence and charity.
Christian radio stations have been established to reach those who are unable to attend worship services. Christian press publications are available in the UAE, and many other publications related to Christianity can be found online. In addition, Christian stores and bookstores in the UAE stock some of the most famous Christian titles, as well as articles and essays.
The presence of Christianity in Dubai has been steadily growing as more people are becoming aware of this prominent faith in the city. This increased exposure will enable the UAE to become more open, understanding and tolerant to those of different faiths.
