For many Christians, particularly Filipino workers, accepting a job in Saudi Arabia means not only a major cultural shift, but also a dramatic adjustment in how one practices their faith. In a country governed by Sharia law and religious conservatism, public expressions of any religion other than Islam are prohibited.
The Kingdom does not allow churches, open worship services, or any kind of proselytizing. Yet, in this very strict environment, many still find ways to stay spiritually connected quietly and carefully.
This commentary shares a few real-life scenarios, the boundaries they must not cross, and how mutual respect and understanding make a difference in coexisting within such a unique cultural setting.
Living under the watchful eye of religious law
Saudi Arabia is the birthplace of Islam and takes its religious identity seriously. The country follows a strict interpretation of Sunni Islam, and the government supports the religious police, known as the Committee for the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice. These enforcers, though less active now than in previous decades, have historically cracked down on non-Muslim religious gatherings.
For many Filipino Christians working in the Kingdom, whether as domestic helpers, nurses, engineers, or office staff, this can be a sobering reality. There’s no church on every corner like in the Philippines. There’s no Christmas carolling or public nativity scenes.
Even carrying a Bible in public, wearing a cross necklace, or gathering in large groups for prayer can attract unwanted attention or face legal consequences.
Worship in private spaces
Despite these restrictions, the Christian faith remains alive among expatriates in Saudi Arabia. Private worship is allowed to some extent, as long as it is discreet and does not involve Saudis.
This means small Bible study groups in homes, private prayer times, and online gatherings have become lifelines for the faithful.
Some Filipinos describe how a rotation system is used to host weekly prayer meetings in apartments, with strict attendance lists and codes used in communication to avoid detection.
Services are often scheduled late at night or early in the morning to avoid suspicion. Even with no physical church, believers create spaces for the Spirit to dwell: living rooms become sanctuaries, and shared meals double as communion.
Real incidents: The risk of crossing the line
There have been cases where expats unintentionally crossed the boundaries of what is permitted.
In January 2000, Saudi religious police raided a private Christian gathering in Riyadh, arresting 16 Filipino Christians who were conducting a Bible study in a residence. While some were released, four remained jailed and under interrogation weeks after the arrest. Sources identified the arrested Filipinos as Vic Mira Velez, Rupino Sulit, Eminesio Rabea, and Art Abreu.
In October 2006 police arrested a Filipino Christian man in Jeddah and falsely charged him with drug possession. The police later dropped those charges and formally charged him with proselytizing. He was detained for 8 months, received 60 lashes, and deported in May 2007.
In October 2010, the Philippine embassy in Riyadh said it extended assistance to 12 Filipinos arrested with other expats for allegedly participating in a mass with a French priest in Nadeem district. After speaking to the police on behalf of the 12, consular representatives were able to convince the police to temporarily release 11 OFWs into the custody of their employers.
Another case involved a Filipino nurse who was detained for distributing religious literature in a hospital. While her intentions were likely good—offering hope to a sick patient—this was seen as an attempt to proselytise, a criminal offense in Saudi Arabia.
These stories aren’t meant to cause fear, but to create awareness. Faith can still be practiced—but it must be approached with wisdom, caution, and above all, respect for the host country’s laws.
Living testimony over preaching
In the absence of overt religious expression, many Filipino Christians focus on living out their faith through kindness, honesty, and service. These virtues, which align closely with Islamic values, often speak louder than words.
“I can’t share the Gospel the way I used to,” said Ana (not her real name), a Filipino domestic worker in Jeddah, “but I show my faith in how I treat the people I work for. My employer once asked why I never complain and always smile. That opened a door, not for preaching, but for understanding.”
Such lived testimony has proven to be a powerful witness, even when no words about faith are spoken. In many ways, this quiet, consistent display of Christ-like character becomes the sermon.
Supporting one another through online fellowship
With modern technology, Christians in Saudi Arabia are better connected than ever. Many Filipinos join online churches or listen to Filipino sermons on platforms like Facebook or YouTube. Messaging apps allow for daily devotionals, prayer chains, and support networks—especially for those who feel isolated or overwhelmed.
Virtual communities like these have become essential for mental, emotional, and spiritual health. They provide encouragement and accountability while helping expats stay grounded in their beliefs.
A call for understanding and resilience
To outsiders, it may seem oppressive to have such strict religious controls. But for those who live in Saudi Arabia and understand the cultural and legal context, it becomes less about oppression and more about adaptation.
Respecting Saudi Arabia’s religious identity does not mean giving up someone else’s own, it means finding ways to honor their beliefs in ways that do not offend theirs.
Faith becomes more personal, more intimate, and perhaps even more genuine when practiced under pressure. For many Filipino Christians, it has deepened their prayer life and strengthened their relationship with God.
Final thoughts
Practicing Christianity in Saudi Arabia as a Filipino expat requires a delicate balance of reverence and discretion. It’s not easy to live in a place where public worship is forbidden, but it’s not impossible to keep the faith alive.
Quiet doesn’t mean weak. Hidden doesn’t mean forgotten. The Christian faith, especially among Filipinos in Saudi Arabia, endures through whispered prayers, private worship, and loving service.