Preparations for Eid ul Fitr 2026 have started in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Amidst the ongoing war in the Middle East, a major change has been made by the UAE administration regarding Eid. The UAE has banned places of offering prayers in the open and has announced that Eid prayers will be offered only in mosques.
The General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowment and Zakat has announced this. This major change has been made due to the tension and sensitivity created in the Gulf region due to the war between America, Israel and Iran. This change is giving a new shape to the way of celebrating Eid this year.
Appeal to follow the rules
Usually in UAE, people celebrate Eid ul Fitr with prayers by gathering in open spaces. Thousands of people gather since morning to celebrate Eid, but this time it will not be seen like this. This has been confirmed by the officials. An appeal has been made to the worshipers to follow the guidelines of the mosque and reach before time to avoid crowd.
Claim of arrangements to handle the crowd
This change related to Eid namaz seems to be related to management. However, Eid namaz is not limited to just a religious obligation, but it is also linked to the emotions of the people. People can offer namaz together with their families in the open fields. At the same time, more people gather in mosques than the space available. However, people have been assured that complete arrangements have been made to handle the crowd in mosques.
The General Authority for Islamic Affairs and Endowment and Zakah announced the establishment of Eid al-Fitr prayer inside the mosque at the state level. pic.twitter.com/8eyBRsGH9J
— UAEGOV (@UAEmediaoffice) March 17, 2026
No change in namaz timings
There has been no change in the timing of Eid prayers. Let us tell you that in UAE, Eid prayers are usually offered between 5.45 am to 6.30 am after sunrise, after which sermons and prayers are given.
The purpose of this decision is to ensure the safety of the people and to organize this large-scale event smoothly. This becomes more important when there is uncertainty in the area.
