How does the UAE accommodate its large Catholic migrant population?

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UAE Accommodates Catholic Migrant Population Through Discreet Practice and State-Sponsored Tolerance Initiatives

The United Arab Emirates accommodates its substantial Catholic migrant population by permitting the discreet practice of their faith and actively promoting tolerance, particularly through initiatives like the "Year of Tolerance." This approach culminated in the historic public mass led by Pope Francis, an event that underscored the UAE's efforts to foster interfaith dialogue and provide religious freedom to its expatriate community.
Pope Francis's Historic Public Mass Signified Openness

Pope Francis led an unprecedented open-air public mass for an estimated 170,000 Catholics at an Abu Dhabi stadium. This event was notable as public worship in the UAE is typically restricted to designated churches. The mass was broadcast live on Emirati television, demonstrating a significant gesture of religious accommodation.
Government Initiatives Foster a Culture of Tolerance

The UAE has designated 2019 as its "Year of Tolerance," a campaign supported by a dedicated ministry. As part of this initiative, the government has actively promoted a "culture of tolerance" and signed a document on "human fraternity for world peace and living together." This document explicitly calls for "freedom of belief" and the "protection of places of worship."
Large Expatriate Population Necessitates Religious Accommodation

With expatriates comprising over 85 per cent of the UAE's population, and Asian nationals forming approximately 65 per cent, accommodating the religious needs of this demographic is crucial. Among the expatriate population, about one million Catholics reside in the UAE, representing around 10 per cent of the total populace, underscoring the significance of their religious practices.
Discreet Practice is Permitted for Migrant Workers

While public worship is generally confined to churches, the UAE permits Christians within its large migrant workforce to practice their faith discreetly. This allows for the continuation of religious observances for a significant portion of the population who are essential to various sectors of the Gulf state's economy.

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How does the UAE accommodate its large Catholic migrant population?

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