Kuwait restricts leave for imams, muezzins during Ramadan

Dubai: Kuwait’s Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs has issued new regulations restricting leave for imams, muezzins, and preachers during Ramadan, with a complete ban on leave during the last 10 days due to the increased demand for them in mosques.

In an administrative circular distributed by the Mosques Sector, the ministry outlined the new leave policy, stating that between the 1st and 19th of Ramadan, imams and muezzins are allowed a maximum of four days off, provided their replacements come from within the same mosque.

The circular further emphasised that substitutes will not be permitted to take leave during this period to ensure continuity in religious services.

The directive strictly prohibits leave during the last 10 days of Ramadan, citing the essential role of religious leaders in facilitating intensive prayers and worship activities during this sacred period.

Additionally, the ministry suspended weekly rest days for imams and muezzins throughout Ramadan in order to maintain the sanctity and continuous worship during the month.