A mass in progress at St Andrew's Church in Abu Dhabi.

Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

Churches in Abu Dhabi have made PCR tests mandatory for attending Christmas masses due to the spike in COVID-19 cases in the UAE.

Three churches in Abu Dhabi have adopted the stringent measures.

St. Joseph's Cathedral Abu Dhabi said on its Facebook page, “According to government regulations, Green Pass with 96 hour PCR is required to attend Christmas Masses.

Entrance only with Emirates ID (or passport, for visitors).”

The church authorities also said, “No booking is required to attend any Christmas Mass. Seating at all Masses is on a first-come, first-served basis.”

The church has limited capacity due to pandemic protocols.

The authorities have urged residents to be be charitable and mindful of your fellow worshippers this Christmas.

Each person can attend only one Mass on either 24th or 25th, in order to give space to as many people as possible.

St Andrew's Church also shared a similar circular.

It read, “Because we had a Covid outbreak in our congregation this week, we are required to enforce a 48-hour negative PCR for entry to all services this weekend, which include Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and Holy Innocents’ on Sunday. Whether you choose to receive communion or not, you will still need to have a 48 hour negative PCR result.”

“Please note, our requirements at St Andrews are more stringent because our congregation had the outbreak.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. Merry Christmas!"

The Abu Dhabi said all private and  public events will follow Covid-19 safety precautions with compulsory wearing of face masks, maintaining social distancing, and periodic sanitisation of venues.