Key Takeaways
- Fajr prayer gap is set at 15 minutes; all other prayers at 5 minutes
- The directive covers mosques in Makkah al-Mukarramah, the central area, and the holy sites
- Friday sermon and prayer combined must not exceed 15 minutes
The Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance has cut the waiting time between the Adhan and Iqamah at mosques frequented by Hajj 2026 pilgrims. The order, issued by Minister Sheikh Dr. Abdullatif Al-Alsheikh, applies across Makkah al-Mukarramah, the central area, and the holy sites.
What the New Timings Are
Under the directive, the gap between Adhan and Iqamah for Fajr prayer is 15 minutes. For Dhuhr, Asr, Maghrib, and Isha, the wait is reduced to 5 minutes each. Friday sermons and prayers are also capped, with the combined duration not permitted to go beyond 15 minutes.
| Prayer | Gap Between Adhan & Iqamah |
|---|---|
| Fajr | 15 minutes |
| Dhuhr | 5 minutes |
| Asr | 5 minutes |
| Maghrib | 5 minutes |
| Isha | 5 minutes |
| Friday Sermon + Prayer | Max 15 minutes total |
With millions of pilgrims moving between sites during Hajj 2026, extended waits at mosques add pressure to already congested areas in the burning heat.
Shorter gaps between the two calls to prayer allow pilgrims to complete their worship and move on more quickly, reducing buildup at mosque entrances and surrounding pathways.
