UAE to hold prayer for rain today: Here's when, where, and how to participate

As the clock nears noon today, mosques across the UAE are filling with worshippers answering President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed’s call for a nationwide Salat al-Istisqā — the prayer for rain. If you plan to join, here’s everything you need to know about when, how, and why this powerful act of faith takes place today.

His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has called upon everyone to pray for rain, known in Arabic as Salaat Al Istisqaa, to be performed at all mosques across the UAE, on Friday, 17th October. #EmiratesNews #DubaiOneTv #UAE #Dubai #News pic.twitter.com/vi2JEoaLGZ

— Emirates News (@Emirates_News) October 14, 2025

UAE prayer for rain timing and mosque locations
The Salat al-Istisqā will be held today, Friday, October 17, around 30 minutes before the regular Friday prayer (Jumu’ah).

Approximate prayer times by emirate:

• Abu Dhabi & Al Ain: around 12:45 pm
• Dubai: 12:45 pm at all major mosques and musallahs
• Sharjah, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah , Umm Al Quwain: between 12:40–12:50 pm depending on local announcements

The Federal Authority for Islamic Affairs and Endowments (Awqaf) confirmed that all mosques across the country will hold the prayer simultaneously. Residents can attend any nearby mosque or open-air musallah.

How to perform Salat al-Istisqā step-by-step
The Istisqā prayer is short, spiritual, and rooted in Prophetic tradition. It can be performed in congregation or individually if you cannot reach a mosque. Step-by-step guide:

• Two rak‘ahs (units) of prayer, similar to Eid prayer; no adhan (call to prayer) or iqamah.
• After the prayer, the imam delivers a short sermon (khutbah) encouraging repentance, gratitude, and mercy.
• The congregation then raises hands for du‘ā (supplication) asking Allah for rain.
• Worshippers are encouraged to remain humble, repent, and remember those in need.

Common du‘ā to recite: “O Allah, give us rain, abundant, beneficial, and not harmful.” (اللهم اسقنا غيثًا مغيثًا مريئًا نافعًا غير ضارٍّ)

Traffic advisory for today’s Salat al-Istisqā
Worshippers heading to mosques and open-air musallahs for today’s prayer should anticipate heavier traffic around major prayer locations. Authorities may implement temporary road closures or diversions near large mosques to ensure safety and smooth movement. It’s recommended to leave early, ideally 20–30 minutes before the prayer, and consider carpooling or public transport where possible. Staying updated with local traffic news will help avoid delays and make your journey to the Istisqā more peaceful and hassle-free.

UAE leaders to join national Salat al-Istisqā 2025
Today’s national Salat al-Istisqā (Prayer for Rain) is a powerful symbol of unity across the UAE, led by the country’s top leadership. Following the directive of President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, rulers and crown princes in all emirates are expected to participate. Senior officials, ministers, and members of the Presidential Court are joining the congregations at prominent mosques such as Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi and Al Safa Grand Mosque in Dubai, alongside the public. Their involvement, coordinated with religious bodies including Awqaf and the Emirates Fatwa Council , underscores the prayer’s message of national solidarity, humility, and shared spiritual responsibility.