Worshippers urged to adhere to the new Friday prayers time

As announced by the General Authority for Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat, in coordination with the Department of Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities in Dubai, the time for the Friday prayers will change from 1:15pm to 12:45pm, effective Jan.2, 2026.

The Authority has urged all worshippers to adhere to the new time. Dr Omar Habtoor Al Dara’i, the Chairman of the General Authority for Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat, confirmed that the decision to change the time of Friday prayers in all UAE mosques to 12:45pm, starting on Friday (Jan.2, 2026), was made based on societal considerations following a four-year study.

Dr Al Dara’i explained that bringing forward the Friday prayer time was the result of four years of research and positive engagement with the needs of Emirati society. He added, "This timing was determined after a four-year study since the decision to work on Fridays was implemented. The earlier time was chosen to reinforce the importance of family gatherings and spending time together as a family.”

Al Dara’i said, "The decision to bring forward the time of the Friday sermon is in line with the societal significance of Friday and family gatherings, and is a positive response to the circumstances of Emirati society. Not everyone who attends Friday prayers is employed; some are, and some are not. Some are elderly, retired, or young.”

Al Dara’i explained, "According to the Islamic law, any time between noon and the afternoon prayer is a valid time for the Friday prayer, as the time for the noon prayer extends into the afternoon prayer. Therefore, performing the Friday prayer at 1:30pm or moving it forward to 12:45pm is permissible.”

“Therefore, the decision is not based on religion, but on social factors, and was made in response to the needs of the community.”

Al Dara’i also noted that the pulpit and services offered to the public are based on community suggestions and general needs.

“Today's Friday sermon, titled 'Prophetic Wisdom,’ will cover that as we welcome the New Year, we ask God Almighty to make it a year abundant with goodness, success and prosperity for ourselves, our families, our community, our nation and our wise leadership.”

One of the most important things to do at the start of this year is to examine one's faith, renew one's commitment to obeying God, and follow the guidance of His Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him.