Islamic Affairs guidelines regarding the performance of Eid al-Fitr prayers
Further to previous statements, and based on updates issued by the National Center for Meteorology regarding the expected rainfall across most regions of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on Eid al-Fitr, the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance has issued important instructions regarding the performance of Eid al-Fitr prayers . These instructions aim to ensure the safety of worshippers and provide a safe and suitable environment for performing the ritual. In many areas, it has been decided to move the prayers from open-air prayer grounds to enclosed mosques to avoid potential damage from rain and other weather conditions.
The flexibility of Islamic law in dealing with weather conditions
Historically, Eid prayers in open squares and prayer grounds are a highly recommended practice that Muslims are keen to observe, as they express joy and happiness and bring Muslims together. However, the flexibility of Islamic law is evident in its prioritization of preserving life and the safety of individuals over performing religious rites at their usual times and places when there are compelling reasons such as heavy rain or severe weather conditions. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, through its relevant authorities, has consistently monitored weather conditions closely to ensure the comfort of pilgrims, citizens, and residents. The proactive decision to move the prayers to mosques reflects the wise leadership's commitment to facilitating religious observances and avoiding any risks that might arise from large gatherings in open spaces during rainfall, a continuation of a long-standing approach that places human safety first.
Map showing the locations of Eid al-Fitr prayers in designated mosques
The Ministry clarified the details of holding Eid al-Fitr prayers only in mosques in several regions of the Kingdom, while continuing to hold them in some prayer areas alongside mosques in specific governorates and centers, depending on the weather conditions in each region. In the Makkah region, prayers will be held in mosques only in the Holy City and most governorates, while they will be held in both mosques and prayer areas in the governorates of Jeddah, Al-Qunfudhah, Al-Lith, and Bahrah. It was also decided that prayers will be limited to mosques only in the Madinah region, the Riyadh region, the Eastern Province, the Tabuk region, the Hail region, the Northern Borders region, the Najran region, and the Al-Jawf region.
Exceptions for prayer areas in Qassim, Asir, Jazan and Al-Baha
In the Qassim region, Eid prayers are held only in mosques, in addition to the northern prayer ground in the city of Buraidah. In the Asir region, prayers are held only in mosques in the city of Abha and most of the governorates. In some governorates and centers, prayers are held in prayer grounds in addition to mosques, such as the Eid prayer grounds in Al-Haridah, Al-Qahmah, and Al-Farshah. In the Jazan region, prayers are held only in mosques in the city of Jazan and most of the governorates, with the exception of the governorates of Al-Darb, Baysh, Sabya, Abu Arish, and Ahad Al-Masarihah, where they are held in both prayer grounds and mosques. In the Al-Baha region, prayers are held only in mosques in the city of Al-Baha and most of the governorates, while some governorates, such as Al-Hajrah, Qalwah, Al-Makhwah, Al-Aqiq, and Al-Qura, hold prayers in designated prayer grounds in addition to mosques.
The positive impact of precautionary measures on society
This organizational measure is of paramount importance and has a tangible positive impact locally. By directing worshippers to designated areas in advance, it avoids chaotic traffic congestion and reduces the likelihood of accidents related to slippery roads caused by rain. These procedures also enhance crowd management efficiency and allow security and regulatory authorities to perform their duties more smoothly. The Ministry of Islamic Affairs consistently emphasizes that these measures stem from its deep commitment to the safety of worshippers and its responsiveness to weather fluctuations. It stresses the importance of staying informed about updates issued by relevant authorities and adhering to directives to ensure that Eid rituals are performed in an atmosphere of tranquility and spirituality.
