Daijiworld Media Network - Dubai

Dubai, Apr 8: Isha and Taraweeh prayers can be performed in mosques strictly observing the precautionary guidelines, the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) in the city said. The Isha prayers will be offered five minutes after the call for prayer (Azan) during the holy month of Ramadan in Dubai. Immediately after Taraweeh prayers are completed, mosques will be closed.

Worshippers must bring their own prayer mats, and avoid any kind of physical contact such as handshakes or any greeting that breaches physical distancing protocols, the guidelines stated.

As per Dubai’s Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management, the various guidelines include - the mosque will remain open from the time of azan until the end of obligatory prayer, the maximum duration of Isha and Taraweeh prayers in mosques is capped at 30 minutes. Isha prayers will be held five minutes after the azan. The mosque’s doors will be kept open from the beginning of the azan until the end of congregational obligatory prayer. Performing a second congregational prayer or praying alone after the completion of main prayers is not permitted, worshippers must avoid crowding. All mosques will close immediately after the prayers. The distribution of food or any other items such as face masks at the entrance of the mosque is strictly prohibited. Individuals with chronic illnesses or compromised immunity are advised not to pray in mosques and avoid crowds.

Director general of the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department in Dubai, Dr Hamad Al Sheikh Ahmed Al Shaibani said that all mosques will be frequently sterilised throughout the day during Ramadan in order to ensure the highest levels of safety and prevention in the community.