Christmas in Dubai: Residents find cheer, celebrate with friends even when away from home

Christmas in Dubai: Residents find cheer, celebrate with friends even when away from home

Thousands of expats in the country that are currently away from their loved ones have found alternate ways to partake in the festive spirit and celebrate Christmas

Published: Sun 25 Dec 2022, 6:58 PM Last updated: Sun 25 Dec 2022, 7:51 PM

At a time of Christmas cheer, festivities and merriment, there are thousands of people in the UAE who are currently living away from their families, and are either celebrating alone, or with friends who have become family in the country.

Mira Balboa is from the Philippines, and she chose to spend Christmas Eve with friends in her apartment. “Usually if I am home, I would be going to the church every day and spending time with my family,” she said. “For us, the main celebration is on Christmas Eve, which we call Noche Buena, when we have a big meal with our friends.”

Ives (extreme right) with his friends and the family who invited him home

Early on Christmas eve, Mira spent time video calling her family. “I miss them,” she said. “But I am glad we have the facilities to keep in touch regularly. Towards the evening, a few friends and I got together to have some food and sing karaoke. It