Kuwait restricts leave for imams, muezzins during Ramadan 2026

Religious staff required to suspend leave, adjust schedules to ensure uninterrupted

Last updated: January 12, 2026 | 11:11

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Dubai: Kuwait’s Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs has issued new regulations restricting leave for imams, muezzins and preachers during the holy month of Ramadan, citing the heightened demand for their presence and services in mosques, local media reported.

In an administrative circular released by the Mosques Sector Department, the ministry instructed all religious personnel to suspend their leave throughout Ramadan and to adjust their work schedules accordingly to ensure the smooth and efficient running of mosque activities.

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The circular stipulates that any leave requests must be signed exclusively by the substitute employee, with no one permitted to sign on behalf of another. Requests must also be formally submitted to the department at least one week in advance.

It further states that extensions of leave will only be granted in emergency situations and must be accompanied by a written request submitted to the department director, their representative, or the head of the relevant section.

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To maintain continuity of religious services, the ministry has also ruled that substitute staff will not be permitted to take leave during this period.

The directive underlines the essential role of religious staff during Ramadan, a time marked by increased prayers, sermons and worship activities, and stresses the need for their consistent presence to meet the spiritual needs of worshippers.

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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