UAE Sets New Unified Friday Prayer Times Starting January 2026

The United Arab Emirates has announced updated nationwide timings for Friday prayers, with sermons and the congregational prayer set to begin at 12:45 PM starting January 2nd, 2026. The General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments stated that the new schedule standardises the timing across all mosques in the country. The shift moves the current 1:15 PM start time earlier by 30 minutes. Authorities encouraged worshippers to arrive ahead of the new start time to ensure prayers begin smoothly and uniformly nationwide. The adjustment aims to streamline prayer schedules and accommodate community routines while maintaining accessibility for worshippers throughout the UAE.