Saudi Arabia to suspend Taraweeh prayers in Ramadan amid coronavirus

RIYADH: The Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance has announced that Taraweeh prayers in Ramadan will be performed only at homes.

According to a report in Al Riyadh, Saudi Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr Abdul Hafiz Sheikh said that suspension of prayers at mosques would not be lifted until the end of coronavirus.

The Saudi Islamic Affairs Minister said, “The suspension of performing the five daily prayers at mosques is more important than the suspension of Taraweeh prayers.”

He further said, “We ask Allah the Almighty to accept Taraweeh prayers whether held at mosques, or homes, which we think is better for people’s health.”

“We ask Allah the Almighty to accept prayers from all of us and protect humanity from this epidemic that hit the entire world,” he added.

Earlier, the temporary suspension of prayers at mosques was implemented as a precautionary measure by the Saudi authorities in order to contain the outbreak of coronavirus.

Additionally, Dr Abdul Hafiz Sheikh has informed that five to six people from the deceased’s family can carry out the funeral prayers.

Dr Abdul Hafiz Sheikh said, “This is a precaution in line with the prohibition of gatherings, so that funeral prayers take place at cemeteries should not exceed five to six of the deceased’s relatives, and the rest pray at their homes.”

He said that the decision was taken in line with the instructions and precautions issued by the Ministry of Health and relevant authorities

The Islamic Affairs Minister also clarified that the funeral prayers can be performed individually, as they are not the obligatory prayers.