As the holy month of Ramadan nears its end, excitement fills the air as one of the most anticipated celebrations approaches—Eid Al Fitr. In the UAE, preparations are underway, with the moon sighting committee set to announce the official prayer timings for this significant day on Saturday, March 29. Traditionally, the Eid prayers are conducted 15 to 20 minutes after sunrise, marking a joyful gathering for families and friends to celebrate together.
Mohammed Musabeh Ali Dhahi, the Executive Director of the Charitable Work Sector and General Coordinator of Ramadan Initiatives in Dubai, has confirmed that the official timings will be made public shortly after the committee’s announcement. This information is eagerly awaited by the community as they finalize their plans for the day of festivity.
While the official schedule is pending release, local scholars are already offering estimates based on astronomical calculations. Sheikh Ayaz Housee, an Imam at NGS and Khateeb at Al Manar Centre, has projected that Eid prayers in Dubai could begin around 6:20 AM. In Sharjah and Ajman, prayers are likely to start a minute earlier, at 6:19 AM, while Abu Dhabi is anticipated to commence prayers at 6:22 AM. However, these are tentative timings and should be confirmed with official updates.
In preparation for the influx of worshippers, the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) has announced extensive arrangements for over 680 mosques and prayer halls across Dubai. This includes 14 large prayer areas strategically located in key areas and 668 smaller mosques within neighborhoods, all designed to accommodate the expected crowds and minimize congestion.
Director-General of IACAD, Ahmed Darwish Al Muhairi, shared that special teams have developed a comprehensive plan in cooperation with various government agencies and community volunteers. This initiative aims to facilitate smooth crowd movement, ensure efficient entry and exit protocols, and provide additional support for the elderly and individuals with special needs. Such meticulous planning reflects the community’s commitment to creating a harmonious Eid experience for everyone.
As the preparations continue, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation. Families across the UAE are preparing to celebrate this joyous occasion, readying feasts and planning gatherings. The final announcement of the Eid timings will be the last piece in the puzzle, allowing everyone to look forward to a day filled with prayer, gratitude, and togetherness.
