As the auspicious occasion of Eid Al Fitr approaches, preparations are in full swing across the United Arab Emirates. Authorities have announced that Eid prayers will be conducted in approved mosques and Eid Musalla throughout the nation, ensuring that worshippers can observe the holiday in a safe and organized manner.
The first day of Eid Al Fitr is expected to fall on either Tuesday or Wednesday, depending on the sighting of the crescent moon. To facilitate smooth proceedings, the Islamic body in the UAE has issued prayer timings for each of the seven emirates, ensuring that worshippers can participate in the prayers with ease and convenience.
Eid Al Fitr 2024 prayer timings in UAE
- Abu Dhabi: 6:22 am
- Al Ain: 6:15 am
- Dubai: 6:18 am
- Sharjah: 6:17 am
- Ajman: 6:17 am
- Umm Al Quwain: 6:17 am
- Ras Al Khaimah: 6:15 am
- Fujairah: 6:15 am
To maintain safety and prevent overcrowding, authorities and volunteers will be overseeing the entry and exit process at prayer locations, ensuring that social distancing measures are strictly adhered to.
In a separate announcement, the Dubai Police Headquarters has revealed the locations where Eid Al Fitr cannons will be fired, adding a touch of tradition to the festivities. The cannons will be stationed at seven locations across Dubai, including Zabeel next to Grand Zabeel Mosque, as well as prayer sites in Nad Al Shiba, Nadd Al Hamar, Baraha, Al Barsha, Umm Suqeim, and Hatta.
Eid on Tuesday or Wednesday?
Regarding the sighting of the crescent moon, the International Astronomy Centre has provided insights, stating that sighting it on Monday is improbable due to the moon setting before the sun. However, seeing the crescent on Tuesday is feasible in many regions of the Islamic world. The Centre emphasized the importance of relying on scientific calculations, aligning with recommendations from the Second Astronomical Conference attended by jurists and decision-makers from various Islamic countries.
Jurists have concurred that there is no contradiction between scientific recommendations and the Sunnah of the Messenger (PBUH) to look for the crescent, particularly when conclusive data suggests its visibility. This approach has been endorsed by Islamic countries that prioritize crescent sighting as the basis for commencing the Hijri month.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
