Are mosques likely to reopen on Sunday?

Social media posts show preparations in full swing, but there is no official statement

Some mosques look set to reopen as early as Sunday based on social media posts yesterday showing preparations and precautionary measures in full swing.

However, there is no official word yet on when the mosques will reopen, or which emirate or emirates the social media posts refer to.

Mosques and other places of worship closed in March.

Islamic affairs authorities in Abu Dhabi and Sharjah told Gulf News that they have not sent out updates or issued guidelines relating to the reopening of mosques.

Guidelines in Dubai

Guidelines for reopening mosques have started appearing outside Dubai’s mosques.

Dr Ali Ahmad Masha’el, Grand Mufti at the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department in Dubai, said: “There are signs about the reopening of mosques soon, but we have not received an official confirmation about the date of the reopening.”

As per the guidelines, women’s prayer halls will remain closed and people under 12 and over 60 will not be allowed to enter as will those suffering from chronic diseases or have weak immunity.

A row will be left empty between every two rows of worshippers and there should be a 1.5 metre gap between each worshipper. Wearing masks and gloves is mandatory and one must bring a prayer rug.

Mosques will only be open for 20 minutes for each of the five daily prayers.

Bathrooms and ablution areas will remain closed and there will be no distribution of food, drinks or otherwise. Worshippers are not allowed to make physical contact.