UAE President calls for rain prayer on Friday

Abu Dhabi: UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has called for a prayer for rain, known in Arabic as Salaat Al Istisqaa, to be performed at all mosques across the UAE on Friday 9th October, half an hour before the Friday prayer.

Sheikh Mohamed called upon everyone to pray to God for rain and mercy, in line with the Sunnah (traditions) of Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him.

The special prayer is performed by Muslims to seek rain from Allah during periods of scarce or delayed rainfall. It is accompanied by supplication, repentance and prayers for divine mercy and blessings.

Why is the rain prayer performed?

Following the Sunnah: Salaat Al Istisqaa follows the example of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), who performed the prayer and supplicated for rain during periods of drought and water scarcity.

Seeking divine mercy: Worshippers gather to pray and make supplications, asking Allah Almighty for rain, mercy and blessings for the land and its people.

A longstanding tradition: UAE leaders have called for Salaat Al Istisqaa on previous occasions when rain was needed, continuing an established Islamic tradition also observed across the region.

How is it performed?

Salaat Al Istisqaa is a special congregational prayer accompanied by supplications seeking rainfall and divine mercy. Under Sheikh Mohamed's directive, Friday's prayer will be performed 30 minutes before the regular Friday prayer.

Worshippers are encouraged to turn to Allah in repentance and supplication, seeking forgiveness, mercy and beneficial rainfall.