A new cemetery for the faithful from all the Christian denominations has been inaugurated in Shariqah, the UAE.

Bishop Paolo Martinelli presided over a short ceremony on behalf of all the Christian communities, and blessed the cemetery and the chapel for funeral services, at the presence of the local authorities.

Among those present were H.E. Dr. Sheikh Salim Ibn Abdul Rahman Al Qasimi, chairman – ruler office; H.E. Obaid Saeed Al Tunaiji, director general - Shariqah Municipality; Dr. Eng. Hassan Al Zarooni, director of Electricity Distribution Department SEWA; Eng. Faisal Al Mulla Director – Shariqah Municipality; Mr. Saif Obaid Al Qaseer, director – Preventive Security Department, Shariqah Police.

In his address, Bishop Paolo underlined the importance of the chapel and the new cemetery for the Christians. He said, "This gift clearly demonstrates a profound sense of welcome towards Christians on the part of all local authorities, confirming that the UAE, and especially the Emirate of Shariqah, is a land of welcome and tolerance."