UAE to change Friday prayer timing from January

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The UAE will implement a nationwide change to the timing of Friday prayers beginning January 2, 2026, according to an announcement from the country’s religious authorities.

The General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat said the Friday sermon and congregational prayer will begin at 12:45pm across all mosques. The adjustment is intended to unify prayer timings throughout the Emirates.

The public is encouraged to arrive early to perform the prayer on time.

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