UAE: Beloved Filipino tradition Simbang Gabi begins December 15 for expats missing home

For many Filipinos working overseas and in places like the UAE, Christmas is often marked by distance from home — and from the traditions that make the season feel complete.

One of the most deeply missed is Simbang Gabi, the cherished nine-day Filipino Catholic tradition of dawn (or evening) Masses held in the Philippines from December 16 to 24, leading up to Christmas.

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In the Philippines, these masses usually start very early, often around 4am and ending by 5.30am. While the early timing means losing a bit of sleep, many devotees embrace it as part of the spiritual journey and preparation for Christmas. By contrast, in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the tradition has been adapted to suit local life. In the UAE, Simbang Gabi typically begins at 8pm, making it easier for Filipinos to attend after a long day.

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More than a religious observance, it serves as a source of comfort, hope, and a reminder of home for Filipinos who cannot return to the Philippines during the holidays. For Dubai resident, Faith R., it is more than just a mass. "There is a vendor outside the church who sells puto bumbong — a staple Filipino dessert traditionally enjoyed after mass — that tastes just like the one my mum used to make when she was still alive."

For Filipino expat Faye P, it is "more than just a "religious tradition". She said, "Simbang Gabi holds a deeply special place in my heart, especially while being away from home. It's a powerful connection to my roots, faith, and the Filipino culture I grew up with. Being far from the Philippines, attending Simbang Gabi becomes a moment where I feel closest to home, surrounded by fellow Filipinos who share the same longing and devotion. It reminds me that no matter where we are in the world, our traditions and faith travel with us."

"Despite being thousands of miles away from my family, Simbang Gabi brings that warmth, nostalgia, and true essence of a Filipino Christmas right here to the UAE," the marketing officer who works at a private Dubai firm added.

Filipino community leader in Dubai Josie Conlu highlighted the role of Simbang Gabi in uniting Filipinos who live abroad. "It strengthens our sense of family and reminds us that even far from home, our community remains united."

On traditions observed during Simbang Gabi, Josie said: "Simbang Gabi here is marked by familiar traditions like shared Filipino food, festive decorations, and communal prayers. These rituals keep our culture alive and make Dubai feel a little more like home."

She also noted, "These traditions are essential in preserving our identity and passing our values to the next generation. They keep the Filipino spirit alive by reminding us who we are and where we come from — even when we are far from home."

Abu Dhabi resident, Margarette Bianson, echoed this. "Keeping Simbang Gabi means keeping a part of my childhood and my faith alive. Being abroad can feel lonely during Christmas. Simbang Gabi gives me comfort and makes the season feel complete," the 43-year-old who works for a publishing house said.

Meanwhile, 60-year-old domestic worker Ludy shared: "Living abroad changes many things, but Simbang Gabi reminds me that my faith and traditions don’t have to change."

Filipino Catholics in the UAE can still take part in the tradition. St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Dubai will hold Simbang Gabi from 8pm on Monday (December 15) until 8pm on Tuesday (December 23). In Abu Dhabi, Simbang Gabi will begin on December 15 at St. Joseph’s Cathedral, running through December 23.

What makes Simbang Gabi special?

Bringing people together, blending faith with community, is what makes Simbang Gabi special. The Masses are often followed by festive scenes outside churches, where Filipino delicacies such as bibingka and puto bumbong are sold, recreating the familiar sights, smells, and warmth of Christmas back home.

Introduced by Spanish friars for Filipino farmers and also known as Misa de Gallo or “Rooster’s Mass,” Simbang Gabi is marked by devotion, humility, and joyful anticipation. With parol lanterns, traditional food, and shared prayer, it continues to symbolise the enduring Filipino spirit — even far from home.

Elizabeth Gonzales

elizabeth@khaleejtimes.com

Elizabeth Gonzales is a Digital Journalist who loves writing about the expat life — and ways to make the most of it. When she's not looking for new hacks to share with readers, you may find her giving them a real laugh at one of her stand-up comic events.