Residents in Dubai can now look forward to attending and participating in Friday prayers in mosques starting Friday, December 4.

An announcement from the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) in Dubai has confirmed that they will be allowing the reopening of 766 mosques for Friday prayers.

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“The suspension of Friday prayers and sermons has been lifted for 766 mosques in Dubai that will now follow strict Covid-19 safety precautions such as worshippers adhering to social distancing, masks and hygiene measures,” said Dr Hamad Al Sheikh Ahmed Al Shaibani, Director-General of the IACAD.

The IACAD director-general furthers that another 60 mosques have been allowed to accommodate more worshipers for the Friday prayers.

“In order to accommodate more worshippers, we have also allowed Friday prayers to be conducted in 60 other mosques that were previously only meant for the five daily prayers,” said Dr. Al Shaibani.

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Mosques are only allowed a maximum capacity of 30%, and prayers in the outer courtyards and broadcasts over loudspeakers will continue to be allowed provided there’s a safe distance of two meters between worshippers. The entry and exit movements of those who wish to pray should likewise be regulated.

All mosques will be allowed to open 30 minutes before prayers begin every Friday. These doors will be closed 30 minutes after prayers have been performed.