The United Arab Emirates has officially announced a new unified timing for the Friday sermon and Jumu’ah prayer across all emirates. Beginning January 2, 2026, the Friday sermon will commence at 12:45 pm, followed immediately by the congregational prayer.
This nationwide alignment aims to bring uniformity to prayer schedules and ensure consistency for worshippers across the country. Mosques throughout the UAE have been instructed to adhere to the fixed timing every week.
Authorities have also advised worshippers to arrive early to maintain order, avoid congestion, and prepare spiritually ahead of the sermon. The shift in timing is expected to streamline community coordination and strengthen the collective experience of the weekly Jumu’ah prayer.
Readers are encouraged to stay tuned for more updates on religious guidelines and nationwide scheduling changes.
Dubai is preparing to add another extraordinary landmark to its skyline — the Dubai Museum of Art (DUMA), a floating cultural destination that will quite literally rise above the waters of Dubai Creek. Announced by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the museum will stand as a global hub for modern art and creativity while reflecting Dubai’s growing stature as a capital of innovation and culture. Sheikh Mohammed described DUMA as “a museum that floats above the waters of Dubai Creek to enhance its brilliance and reflect Dubai’s civilisational spirit and artistic identity.”
The project, designed by world-renowned Japanese architect Tadao Ando, is envisioned as a one-of-a-kind structure inspired by nature and heritage. Its form will symbolize a shell and pearl — a tribute to Dubai’s pearl-diving past — while its design will embody harmony between water, sky, wind, and light. The museum will feature five expansive floors showcasing global and regional artists, alongside creative learning spaces, a library, a café, and art-inspired viewpoints overlooking the creek.
Sheikh Mohammed credited businessman Abdullah Al Futtaim and his son Omar Al Futtaim for their contribution to the development, describing it as a model for how the private sector can meaningfully participate in cultural progress. He emphasized that “cities are completed by culture and art, and flourish through the economy when both public and private sectors work together.”
Beyond being a traditional museum, DUMA is envisioned as a living, breathing cultural hub — a place where “the world gathers for art and culture.” It will strengthen Dubai’s reputation as a global destination for creativity, joining the ranks of the city’s architectural icons such as the Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, the Dubai Frame, the Mohammed bin Rashid Library, and the Museum of the Future. As construction begins, DUMA stands poised to become a floating masterpiece — a tribute to Dubai’s artistic spirit and its vision for the future.
The United Arab Emirates has officially announced that Ramadan 2026 will begin on Thursday, February 19, following the successful sighting of the crescent moon. The confirmation came from the UAE Moon-Sighting Committee, which met and issued the declaration in alignment with Islamic tradition and astronomical calculations. The committee is chaired by His Excellency Sheikh Abdullah bin Bayyah, President of the UAE Council for Fatwa, and includes a panel of scholars, jurists, and astronomers who validate lunar sightings using both observation and scientific methodology.
Earlier predictions by the Emirates Astronomy Society had suggested that Ramadan might begin on February 17, as the new crescent moon became visible at 4:01 PM UAE time that day. However, since the moon set just one minute after sunset, it was not visible, and the start date was officially deferred until February 19 after proper confirmation.
Ramadan is the ninth and holiest month of the Islamic calendar, observed by Muslims around the world through fasting, prayer, spiritual reflection, and community gatherings. In 2025, Ramadan began on the evening of February 28 and ended on March 30. This year, with Ramadan 2026 beginning earlier in February, daylight hours will gradually increase through the month.
Fasting hours in Abu Dhabi are expected to start at approximately 12 hours and 46 minutes, extending to nearly 13 hours and 25 minutes by the end of Ramadan due to the seasonal lengthening of days. In terms of weather, the UAE’s capital is predicted to experience temperatures between 16°C and 28°C at the start of the month. As the month progresses, temperatures may rise to 32°C, with minimums around 19°C. Rainfall is also forecasted, averaging about 15 millimeters during the month.
These observations and forecasts are part of a wider initiative by UAE authorities to inform citizens and residents accurately, maintaining both religious tradition and scientific credibility. Ramadan remains a time of personal reflection and collective spirituality, and the UAE continues to facilitate its observance with precise planning and public awareness.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially announced the Indian squad for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025, which will be played in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from September 9 to 28.
In a major decision, Suryakumar Yadav has been appointed as captain, marking his return to leadership duties. Young batting star Shubman Gill has been entrusted with the role of vice-captain, highlighting the selectors’ vision for grooming future leaders of Indian cricket.
On the bowling front, India’s pace attack will be spearheaded by Jasprit Bumrah, who continues to be the strike weapon in crucial tournaments. With a balanced squad comprising both experienced stalwarts and emerging talents, India looks confident heading into the tournament.
The Asia Cup 2025 will serve as an important platform for testing combinations and strategies ahead of the ICC global tournaments scheduled next year. Cricket fans are eagerly anticipating high-voltage clashes, especially against traditional rivals Pakistan and Sri Lanka, as India aims to add another continental trophy to its illustrious cabinet.
The tournament will kick off on September 9, with the grand finale scheduled for September 28. Team India will begin its campaign with high hopes and a powerful lineup.
Stay tuned for match updates, analysis, and exclusive coverage on allycaral.com.
Abu Dhabi, UAE – The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (SZGM) in Abu Dhabi has solidified its status as one of the world’s leading cultural landmarks, being named the number one tourist attraction in the Middle East and eighth globally in TripAdvisor’s 2025 Travellers’ Choice Awards. The mosque climbed two spots from its 2024 global ranking, continuing its trajectory as an architectural and cultural beacon.
Selected from more than 8 million global landmarks, SZGM is now among the top 1% of all reviewed attractions, based on feedback from millions of international travellers. This recognition is a testament to its outstanding visitor experience, inclusive programming, and architectural grandeur.
A Vision of Culture, Faith, and Innovation
“The global recognition attained by Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque reflects the visionary leadership of the UAE,” said Dr. Yousif Al Obaidli, Director-General of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre (SZGMC). He credited the rise in global standing to the mosque’s year-round strategic efforts in enhancing guest experiences, expanding cultural initiatives, and developing infrastructure and services.
SZGM: More Than a Mosque
Beyond being a site of prayer, SZGM is a global hub for cultural dialogue, drawing over seven million visitors annually. Its mission revolves around peace, coexistence, and heritage, making it an inclusive destination for people of all backgrounds.
Visitors can enjoy:
🕌 Cultural tours by trained Emirati guides
🚗 ‘Unseen Glimpses’ electric car tours exploring exclusive parts of the mosque
🎧 El-Delleel – a 14-language multimedia guide including sign language & children’s content
🛍️ Souq Al Jami’ – shopping & dining experiences
🏃 Jogging track offering panoramic views
🌌 Sura evening tours – 24-hour access for transit tourists
Landmark Achievements Across the UAE
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Fujairah also earned global recognition, ranking in the top 10% of tourist landmarks worldwide. This is especially significant considering its relatively recent activation of visitor services.
Together, both mosques exemplify the UAE’s commitment to cultural diplomacy and intercultural dialogue, rooted in authentic Islamic values.
Cultural Experiences Beyond Compare
The mosque’s Dome of Peace, Light & Peace Museum, and rotating exhibitions like Hajj: Memories of a Journey and Coins of Islam offer immersive encounters with Islamic heritage.
The Diya – A Universe of Light experience uses 360-degree sound, wind, and light to take visitors on a sensory journey through starlit universes into the heart of the UAE’s cultural soul.
A Symbol on the World Stage
Thanks to its excellence, SZGM has become a must-visit site for international dignitaries, with 82% of visitors coming from abroad. Its rising stature strengthens Abu Dhabi’s position as a cultural capital, while showcasing the UAE’s ethos of peace and innovation.
As global recognition grows, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque stands tall – not just as a building, but as a living message of unity, light, and legacy.
