Today's Edition
Khaled Al Khawaldeh (Abu Dhabi)
Hours after the official announcement of the beginning of Ramadan, hundreds of worshippers descended onto the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque for the first Taraweeh prayers of the holy month.
Taraweeh prayer is a significant practice during the month of Ramadan. It provides a spiritual break and a chance to connect with God, seek forgiveness and strengthen one’s faith. Usually worshippers pray 8 to 20 ‘Rak’ahs in congregation, as was the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad.
It was all hustle and bustle late on Sunday night as tourists were met with an exceptional deluge of foot traffic going into the Grand Mosque. Worshippers from around the city made their ways through the prayer halls, as the echoes of recitation rang around the marble courtyard.
It was difficult not to be swept away by the grandeur of the whole experience, with the combination of both the exquisite scale of the architecture and the importance of the religious processions creating an ethereal atmosphere.
Prayers will be held at the Grand Mosque throughout Ramadan, with a several renown guest reciters invited to lead prayers throughout the month.
