Saudi Arabia issues strict guidelines ahead of Ramadan

Ahead of the holy month of Ramadan, new and strict guidelines have been issued for mosques across Saudi Arabia.

The Ministry of Islamic Affairs has issued new and strict guidelines for mosques across Saudi Arabia ahead of the holy month of Ramadan. These guidelines will apply to imams, muezzins and other mosque staff. The circular issued by the ministry states that full attendance of mosque staff must be ensured during the month of Ramadan. Absence is not permissible except for urgent needs, and even that must be taken with government permission and by appointing an alternative responsible person.

The guidelines state that the prayer schedule must be strictly followed according to the Umm al-Qura calendar. The Isha call to prayer must be given at the scheduled time, and in the case of Isha and Fajr, a 15-minute break must be kept between the call to prayer and the congregation, so that it is easy for worshippers to participate. In the last ten days of Ramadan, Tahajjud prayers are asked to be completed in such a way that the worshippers do not suffer before dawn.

In the case of the Qunut prayer, it has been emphasized to follow the Sunnah of the Prophet (peace be upon him) - the prayer should be modest and restrained, not excessively long or rhythmic. In addition, religious discourses and teachings have been encouraged for worshipers throughout Ramadan.

The worshipers or the imam praying cannot be recorded with CCTV cameras installed inside the mosque and live streaming of prayers has been banned. Begging in or around the mosque is strictly prohibited, and worshipers have been asked to be careful that zakat and donations reach the right and legitimate sectors.

Registration of those observing itikaf, approval of sponsors for non-Saudi citizens, prohibition of collecting cash for iftar programs, organizing iftar at designated locations and strict instructions have also been given on cleanliness. Authorities said that these measures aim to ensure a safe, orderly and spiritual environment in mosques during Ramadan.

Gulf News reported.