Domari Romani in United Arab Emirates

Domari Romani in United Arab Emirates

The Romani Domari (Gypsies) of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are made up of two groups, the Ghorati and Nawari. Originally coming from India, most of them roam in small caravans throughout the UAE. They often camp outside of urban locations where they attempt to earn a living through manual jobs, begging or selling trinkets. A few provide street entertainment through their music and dancing. They face discrimination and rarely manage to advance out of poverty. They speak their traditional Romani language blended with Arabic words. Romanis value their family units and help each other when the need arises. They have their own form of justice in which council members decide the verdicts for members who break their social code. Although most in the UAE are culturally folk Muslims, some have become Christians.

Ministry Obstacles

Their wandering form of life, fear of persecution, mistrusting outsiders and a lack of ability to understand words presented to them in the Bible all provide obstacles.

Outreach Ideas

There are some believers among them in the UAE who can lead others into a movement to Christ. Believers can provide them with gospel recordings and radios.

Scripture Focus

"To open their eyes, so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.’"  Acts 26:18

Scripture Prayer

Pray for God to send spiritual light and truth to this people group.

Prayer Focus

Pray that every effort to reach the Romani people would be blessed by God so they will accept His truth and direction and rejoice in knowing they are loved by Him. Pray for the Romani Domari to be blessed physically and spiritually in the UAE.