UAE mosques hold special prayers during lunar eclipse

Muslims across UAE perform Salat Al Khusuf during the eclipse

Last updated: September 07, 2025 | 21:23

1 MIN READ

Dubai: As the moon darkened under Earth’s shadow, the sound of Quranic verses echoed from mosques across the UAE on Sunday evening, marking the start of special prayers during the lunar eclipse.

Muslims across the country gathered to perform Salat Al Khusuf, a two-rakʿah prayer offered during lunar eclipses in line with Islamic tradition. The prayer, which combines supplication, charity and remembrance of God, is seen as a moment of humility and reflection on the majesty of creation.

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Worshippers filled mosques in major cities, while many families observed the prayer at home. Religious authorities said the prayer would continue until the eclipse ended, giving Muslims the chance to participate at any point during the celestial event.

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Scholars highlighted that the Prophet Muhammad encouraged Muslims to respond to eclipses not with fear or superstition, but with prayer and remembrance of God. The practice remains a powerful expression of faith, reminding believers of the temporary nature of life and the greatness of divine creation.

The rare event drew wide participation across the UAE, with clerics urging worshippers to couple their prayers with acts of charity and good deeds, reinforcing the spiritual meaning of the occasion.

Khitam Al Amir

With over 30 years of journalistic experience spanning from Jordan to the UAE, Khitam has spent the past 22 years reporting on national and regional news from Dubai, with a strong focus on the UAE, GCC and broader Arab affairs. As Chief News Editor, she brings extensive expertise in delivering breaking and engaging news to readers. Beginning her tenure as a translator, she advanced through roles as Senior Translator and Chief Translator before transitioning to editorial positions, culminating in her current leadership role. Her responsibilities encompass monitoring breaking news across the UAE and the broader Arab region, ensuring timely and accurate dissemination to the public. Born into a family of journalists, Khitam's passion for news was ignited early in life. A defining moment in her youth occurred in September 1985 when she had the opportunity to converse with the late British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher during her visit to a Palestinian refugee camp north of Amman. During this encounter, Khitam shared her family's experiences of displacement from their home in Palestine and their subsequent refuge in Jordan. This poignant interaction not only deepened her understanding of geopolitical issues but also solidified her commitment to pursuing a career in journalism, aiming to shed light on the stories of those affected by regional conflicts. Khitam’s commitment to accurate and timely reporting drives her to seek out news that interests readers, making her a trusted source for news on the UAE and the broader Gulf region.

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