No need of social distancing during prayers in mosques

Imam Muhammad Ibn Abdul Wahab Grand Mosque in Qatar

The Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs (Awqaf) on Wednesday lifted some restrictions in mosques while announcing easing Covid-19 precautionary measures. According to the new Awqaf guidelines, social distancing will not be in place during obligatory and Friday prayers while believers have been asked to maintain a distance of one meter during Friday sermon.

Also, mosques in non-crowded areas will open toilets and areas where ablution are taken. The relaxations will be in place from next Sunday and they were announced in line with the plan to gradually lift the restrictions imposed as a result of combating the spread of Covid-19 and work to restore normal life starting next Sunday.

Awqaf has urged mosque-goers to adhere to and abide by the precautionary controls and procedures in order to ensure the safety of worshipers and community members. These include showing Ehteraz while entering the mosque, bringing a prayer rug, and wearing a face mask.

The decisions are as follows: 

1)    No need of social distancing during the five daily prayers and Friday prayers.
2)    Maintain a distance of 1 metre during the Friday sermon. 
3)    Open toilets and perform ablution in non-crowded areas