ABU DHABI (Dunya News)- The UAE has announced that all mosques across the country will now observe Friday prayers at the same time.
The General Authority of Islamic Affairs stated that the unified schedule will come into effect on January 2, 2026, with the sermon and Friday prayer set for 12:45 PM nationwide.
This marks a shift from the previous system, where Dubai and Abu Dhabi held Friday prayers around 1:30 PM, and Sharjah along with the northern emirates offered the prayers closer to 12:30 PM. With the new policy, the entire federation will follow one fixed time.
Officials say the decision to unify Friday prayer timings is meant to make things easier and more organized for worshippers. By having one standard time, people across the UAE will no longer face confusion about when the sermon or prayer begins.
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Authorities also believe the move will encourage better community participation and create a stronger sense of unity among mosques and congregations nationwide.
The authority has urged worshippers to adhere to the new timing and ensure that Friday prayers are performed punctually.