UAE: Muslim worshippers unite in prayer for rain
Screenshot from MSDAR
Thousands of worshippers across the UAE gathered on Saturday to perform Salat Al Istisqa, or rain prayers, in response to a call from President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
The prayer sessions began at 11 a.m. in mosques and prayer halls across the nation, seeking divine mercy and blessings for rainfall.
It follows a longstanding Islamic tradition rooted in the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad. Earlier in the week, Sheikh Mohamed encouraged citizens to “pray to Allah Almighty to bless the nation with rain and mercy.”
During the prayers, imams led worshippers in heartfelt supplications for Allah’s forgiveness and mercy, as the UAE experiences its characteristic arid climate, receiving only about 150mm of rainfall annually.
Understanding Salat Al Istisqa
Salat Al Istisqa is a profound act of Islamic worship, symbolizing humility and reliance on Allah’s compassion. It is typically observed during periods of drought or when rain is delayed.
The prayer consists of two rak’ahs (units of prayer) performed in the forenoon. It should be noted that Salat Al Istisqa is conducted without the customary adhan (call to prayer) or iqamah (prayer commencement).
Worshippers face the qibla (direction of Mecca) and end the prayer with collective supplications for rainfall and mercy.
