Eid and Friday Prayer Coincide: Fatwa Clarifies

Eid Al Adha and Friday Prayer Overlap: UAE Fatwa Council's Guidance

This year, Eid Al Adha, one of the most significant Islamic holidays, coincides with Friday in the UAE, raising questions among many believers: if someone attends the Eid prayer, is it obligatory to also participate in the Jumuah (Friday) prayer on the same day? The Emirates Fatwa Council has clarified the situation in an official statement eagerly awaited by the communities.

The Council emphasized that the Friday prayer is one of the most crucial obligations in Islam, which can only be missed for valid reasons. According to the official stance, believers are required to perform both the Eid and Jumuah prayers at their respective times and in the proper Sunnah (traditional) forms.

This issue has long been a subject of debate among Islamic jurists, but the UAE Fatwa Council adheres to the majority view. Influential Islamic schools, such as the Maliki, Hanafi, and Shafi'i, along with a narration from Imam Ahmad, support the position that both prayers are obligatory independently and separately. The Eid prayer is considered a confirmed Sunnah or communal obligation for many, while the Friday prayer is an individual duty for those to whom it applies.

However, the Council acknowledged that there are scholarly opinions that allow those who attended the Eid prayer to skip the Friday prayer and instead perform the Dhuhr (noon) prayer at home. Those who choose this path should not be blamed, yet the Council highlighted that attending the Friday prayer is the stronger and more rewarding decision.

What about the imam's role?

The Fatwa Council specifically addressed the imam's role as well. Regardless of the opinion followed by the worshippers, the imam is not permitted to skip the Friday prayer. He is obliged to lead the prayer for those who attend, even if only a few participate. This position is based on a narration from Abu Hurairah in which the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Two celebrations have coincided on this day, so whoever wishes, Eid will be sufficient for them instead of Friday, but we gather."

Why is this guidance important?

This official statement helps provide unified direction for believers in the UAE, especially during major holidays when there is much uncertainty. In Islamic practices, community unity and following the correct direction are always of paramount importance, and this fatwa assists believers in navigating the religious obligations during the festive period.

Though the overlap of Eid Al Adha and Jumuah prayer is rare, it is not unprecedented. The Council's clarification ensures believers know the strongest religious path and the options available to them.

Whether someone performs both prayers or opts for a Dhuhr prayer at home after Eid, the central message is that living one's faith is both a responsibility and a reward. As always, imams are prepared to lead those who wish to pray in community.

(Source of the article: UAE Fatwa Council statement.)