Picture for illustrative purposes only. EXPAT MEDIA

Friday prayer across the UAE will begin earlier at 12:45pm starting January 2, 2026, in a move authorities say is designed to better support family life and community wellbeing. According to the  General Authority for Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat, the decision to bring forward the Friday sermon and prayer time was based on social considerations, following nearly four years of study and consultation. Dr. Omar Habtoor Al Darai, Chairman of the Authority, said the change reflects the evolving rhythm of life in the UAE and the need to align religious practice with social realities. “This decision aligns with the social essence of Friday, the family gathering, community cohesion, and positive interaction with the realities of life in the Emirates,” Al Darai said in a recorded interview with Emirati influencer Abdullah bin Dafna. He explained that the revised timing does not conflict with Islamic law, as Friday prayer can be performed anytime between the start of noon (Dhuhr) and the afternoon (Asr) prayer. “Performing Friday prayer at 1:30pm is acceptable and moving it earlier to 12:45pm is equally valid,” Al Darai said. “This decision was not based on a fatwa but rather on enhancing the community experience.” The timing adjustment follows wider changes to the UAE’s working week introduced in 2022, when Friday became a half-day for many public sector employees, and Friday prayers were moved to 1:15pm for the first time in years. The upcoming change in the prayer time starting 2026 is intended to allow worshippers to return home sooner and spend more quality time with their families, according to the Authority. “We aim to reinforce the value of family time and encourage stronger social bonds by enabling more people to return home earlier,” Al Darai said. He also noted that mosque services, including sermon topics and delivery, are continually reviewed and refined based on community feedback. “The pulpit belongs to the people, and our services are shaped by their suggestions and community needs,” he said. The decision also comes ahead of the UAE’s declaration of 2026 as the Year of the Family, a nationwide initiative aimed at promoting unity, growth and deeper family connections. ICA/Expat Media
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