Rain Prayers to be Held Across the UAE on Friday

Mosques across the United Arab Emirates will hold special rain prayers (Salaat al-Istisqaa) on Friday, in response to a call from President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. 

The prayer is slated to begin 30 minutes before the weekly Friday congregational prayer, urging worshippers to supplicate for rainfall, mercy, and blessings for the nation. 

The directive underscores the UAE leadership’s appeal to spiritual unity during times of climatic need. Sheikh Mohamed has urged all Muslims in the country to participate sincerely in the ritual, which aligns with the prophetic tradition of turning to God in times of drought.

Religious scholars note that Salaat al-Istisqaa is not only a prayer for rain but also a communal act—reflecting shared dependence on divine mercy and the collective spirit of Muslim communities. 

In scheduling the prayer shortly before Friday’s main service, authorities aim to facilitate maximum participation. The Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department has directed all mosques across the Emirates to observe the supplication at 12:45 pm, where possible, ahead of the Jumu’ah sermon. 

This is not the first time the UAE has called for a nationwide prayer for rain. In past years, similar observances have been held following leadership calls, emphasizing the cultural and religious significance of invoking divine mercy during lean weather spells. 

As the country prepares for this moment of spiritual alignment, residents are invited to gather in mosques—united in faith and hopeful for divine relief.