Churches in Dubai have announced they will remain closed to the public until further notice, with only limited Easter services available online, citing safety concerns amid ongoing regional tensions.

The measures, effective from Friday, April 3, come as the United Arab Emirates faces continued attacks from Iranian missiles and drones since February 28.

Tehran has claimed the strikes target US interests in neighbouring countries in retaliation for actions by the United States and Israel.

Parishioners were urged to avoid visiting church premises in the interest of community well-being.

Notices posted on social media and church websites offered guidance on accessing services remotely.

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“Please note with effect from April 3, our church will be closed to all visitors until further notice,” read a statement from St Mary’s Catholic Church, Oud Metha.

“The 3pm and 6pm Good Friday services on April 3 will be streamed online via our church YouTube channel. Thank you for understanding.”

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Masses in Dubai traditionally draw thousands of worshippers during Easter, with crowds sometimes listening from outside through loudspeakers.

Some churches, including St Francis of Assisi Church, Jebel Ali, had previously limited services to indoor-only gatherings before the full closures were enforced.

“As per directive of the Government Regulatory Authorities, all masses at our church cancelled until further notice,” the church stated on its website.

“Parishioners are requested to refrain from visiting the church premises in the interest of safety and community well-being. No online stream.”

St Thomas Orthodox Cathedral in Oud Metha, Dubai, also said on social media that the compound was closed to worshippers, with services being conducted online.

“In accordance with the strict instructions issued by the UAE authorities, all worship and services in our parish will be conducted online only until further notice,” it said. “Service timings will remain the same.”

The Hindu temple and the Sikh Guru Nanak Darbar in Jebel Ali, which both sit near churches forming a cluster of houses of worship, also closed on Friday.

“The Hindu temple Dubai will remain closed until further notice for safety and security reasons,” temple authorities said.

“We apologise for the inconvenience caused and request the devotees’ understanding and co-operation. May the Lord bless all with safety and well-being.”