Papal Mass ticket holders, take note. 

If you’ve managed to secure a ticket to the Pope’s Mass in Abu Dhabi this February 5th, you’ll be glad to know that it comes along with a public holiday if you work in the private sector.

The decision was made by the Ministry of Human Resouces and Emiratisation to allow employees that work in the private sector to participate in the Papal Mass next week in Abu Dhabi.

“The announcement is being made as part of a commitment to grant employees in the private sector the opportunity to take part in the event. The holiday for permit holders underlines the UAE’s commitment to acceptance and open-mindedness during the Year of Tolerance, and its ongoing dedication to facilitating interfaith dialogue,” the ministry said in a statement.

Pope Francis will be in the UAE next week for a landmark, three-day visit which will take place from February 3 to 5. It will be the first time a Pope has ever come to the UAE. You can read more about his trip here

Even though the holiday announcement will come as a massive relief to the Papal Mass goers, plan ahead to avoid disappointment as traffic will be expected given this is one of the most awaited events so far this year.

The Dubai faithful will be leaving to attend the Pope’s mass the previous night, on February 4th, to ensure they reach the venue on time the following day. Upon their arrival to Abu Dhabi, they will then need to walk one to two kilometres from their drop-off points to reach the Zayed Sports City in Abu Dhabi.

And if you miss out on a ticket you can still catch the event as it will be live streamed and broadcasted in churches across the country, the papal visit website as well as on the Vatican’s YouTube channel.

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Images: Getty