Daijiworld Media Network – Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, Dec 10: Worshippers across the United Arab Emirates will follow a unified schedule for Friday prayers starting the first Friday of the new year, the General Authority for Islamic Affairs, Endowments, and Zakat has announced.

From January 2, 2026, Friday sermons and prayers will begin at 12:45 pm in all mosques across the country. The authority stated that the move aims to bring greater consistency and smoother organisation of religious activities nationwide.

Officials have urged worshippers to arrive early in order to attend the sermon in full and receive its complete spiritual benefits. The unified timing will also ensure that residents can plan their schedules more easily and participate in prayers regardless of their location within the UAE.

The authority has called upon the community to adhere to the new schedule as the country prepares to implement the change in the coming year.