The alarm is set. The new clothes are ironed. The kids are too excited to sleep. Eid morning in the UAE is one of those beautiful experiences that stays with you. But every year the same question appears in every family group chat: what time is Eid prayer?
Eid Prayer Times Across UAE - Friday March 20, 2026
| Emirate | Takbeer Starts | Eid Prayer | Sunrise |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dubai | 5:45 AM | 6:15 AM | 6:20 AM |
| Abu Dhabi | 5:50 AM | 6:20 AM | 6:24 AM |
| Sharjah | 5:45 AM | 6:15 AM | 6:20 AM |
| Ajman | 5:45 AM | 6:15 AM | 6:20 AM |
| Ras Al Khaimah | 5:42 AM | 6:12 AM | 6:17 AM |
| Fujairah | 5:40 AM | 6:10 AM | 6:15 AM |
| Umm Al Quwain | 5:44 AM | 6:14 AM | 6:19 AM |
Note: These are approximate times. The IACAD will announce confirmed times. Eid prayer is performed 15-20 minutes after sunrise.
Major Eid Musallah Locations in Dubai
- Eid Musallah, Al Barsha: Largest open-air prayer ground in Dubai
- Zabeel Park Musallah: Central location near Trade Centre
- Al Mamzar Musallah: Popular for Deira and surrounding area residents
- Al Farooq Omar Bin Al Khattab Mosque: Jumeirah, one of Dubai largest mosques
- Dubai World Trade Centre: Indoor prayer area for large gatherings
Abu Dhabi Eid Prayer Locations
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Most iconic location. Arrive very early as it fills quickly
- Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre: Large indoor overflow venue
- Musallah areas in Khalifa City, MBZ City, and Al Ain
How to Perform Eid Prayer - Quick Guide
- Ghusl (shower): Take a bath before going. This is Sunnah
- Eat dates: It is Sunnah to eat something sweet before Eid Al Fitr prayer
- Wear best clothes: New or your finest outfit for the occasion
- Recite Takbeer: From the night before until the Imam begins. Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, La ilaha illallah, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, wa lillahil hamd
- The prayer: 2 rakaat with extra Takbeerat (7 in first rakah, 5 in second)
- Khutbah: Sermon follows the prayer (unlike Jummah where it comes before)
- Take different routes: Go one way, return another. This is Sunnah
What to Bring to Eid Prayer
- Prayer mat (essential for outdoor Musallah grounds)
- Water bottle (March in UAE can be warm even in the morning)
- Sunscreen and cap for outdoor prayer grounds
- Comfortable footwear (you will walk a distance from parking)
Parking Tips
- Arrive at least 30-45 minutes before prayer time
- Carpool with family or neighbors to reduce congestion
- Use Careem or Uber if your Musallah is in a congested area
- Dubai RTA typically provides free parking on Eid days
- Do not park on sidewalks or block residential driveways
People Also Ask
What time is Eid prayer in Dubai 2026?
Approximately 6:15 AM on Friday March 20, 2026. Arrive by 5:45 AM for Takbeer.
Can women attend Eid prayer in UAE?
Absolutely. Women are welcome and encouraged to attend. Most Musallah grounds have designated women sections. The Prophet Muhammad specifically encouraged women to attend Eid prayers.
Is Eid prayer mandatory?
The Hanafi school considers it Wajib (obligatory). Other schools consider it Sunnah Muakkadah (strongly recommended). Either way, attending is highly encouraged.
Can I pray Eid at home?
If you are unable to attend due to illness or valid reason, you can pray at home. Scholars confirmed its validity during COVID-19.
Do I need to pay Fitrana before Eid prayer?
Yes. Fitrana (Zakat Al Fitr) must be paid before Eid prayer. The recommended amount in UAE is AED 25 per person.