The General Authority for Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat in the UAE has announced new times for Friday prayers and sermons, effective from the beginning of 2026. The next few days will mark the end of the current prayer times for worshippers in the country.

In an official statement, the government explained that the new Friday prayer times in the UAE, starting in 2026, will be from 1:15 PM to 1:30 PM. The Friday prayer itself will begin at 1:30 PM and conclude within 4 to 5 minutes, around 1:35 PM.

These new Friday prayer times will apply to Dubai, Ajman, Abu Dhabi, Fujairah, Umm Al Quwain, and Ras Al Khaimah.

The General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat clarified that the timing of the Friday sermon and prayer will be changed starting Friday, January 2, 2026.

It is worth noting that the Authority had previously explained that changing the timing of the Friday prayer in the UAE stems from a religious perspective, in accordance with Islamic jurisprudence and Sharia. It added that performing the prayer at the new, specified time is within the correct timeframe, as the prayer will be held at noon, after the sun has passed its zenith, and before the afternoon prayer.

Through this new decision, the Authority aims to unify the timing of the sermon across the country, preserving the system of congregational worship and ensuring that worshippers attend the entire sermon.

Unifying the timing of the prayer and the Friday sermon will also help families, workers, residents, expatriates, and students organize their weekly routines and simplify their daily lives.