Qibla Direction (UAE, 2025): Compass Accuracy and Calibration + Free Tool
Learn how Qibla bearing is computed from your location to the Kaaba, the difference between true north and magnetic north, and how to calibrate your phone’s compass for the most accurate results. Use our free Qibla Direction tool to align quickly.
Updated: Oct 27, 2025 · 7 min read · By ADAD Team
Quick summary
- Great‑circle bearing: Qibla is the initial great‑circle bearing from your position to the Kaaba in Makkah.
- Use our tool: The Qibla Direction tool reads device orientation and geolocation (with permission) to guide you.
- Calibrate: For best results, calibrate your phone’s compass and avoid magnetic interference.
How Qibla bearing is computed
Using your latitude/longitude, the initial bearing to Makkah is computed via great‑circle (geodesic) formulas. Our tool handles the math; you simply align your device to the indicated direction.
True vs magnetic north
Compasses measure magnetic north, which can deviate from true north by a small amount (magnetic declination). Many phones apply corrections automatically; ensure location/compass permissions are granted.
Compass calibration & accuracy tips
- Move your phone in a figure‑8 to calibrate sensors.
- Step away from metal structures, speakers or power supplies.
- Keep the device flat and steady; avoid strong cases with magnets.
Permissions and privacy
Location and motion sensor access improve accuracy. Our tool uses them locally in your browser; we do not store your location.
Frequently Asked Questions
What direction is Qibla in the UAE?
In the UAE, the Qibla direction is approximately 255-260 degrees (west-southwest). The exact bearing varies slightly by city: Dubai is about 258°, Abu Dhabi is about 256°, Sharjah is about 258°. This direction points toward the Kaaba in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, which is roughly 2,000 km from the UAE. Most mosques in the UAE are already aligned to Qibla.
How is Qibla direction calculated?
Qibla is calculated using spherical geometry to find the great-circle bearing from your location to the Kaaba (coordinates: 21.4225° N, 39.8262° E). The formula uses your latitude and longitude to compute the initial bearing of the shortest path on Earth's surface. This is why Qibla directions differ based on where you are in the world.
Why does my phone compass give different readings?
Phone compasses can be affected by: magnetic interference from nearby electronics, metal objects, or building structures; uncalibrated sensors; or the difference between magnetic north and true north. Calibrate your compass by moving your phone in a figure-8 pattern. Move away from metal objects and electronic devices. Some phones have a compass calibration option in settings.
What is the difference between true north and magnetic north?
True north points to the geographic North Pole, while magnetic north points to the magnetic North Pole — they're not the same location. The difference is called magnetic declination and varies by location. In the UAE, the declination is about 2-3 degrees east, meaning magnetic north is slightly east of true north. Qibla calculations use true north, so some compass apps apply this correction automatically.
Do I need to face Qibla exactly?
Islamic scholars generally agree that facing the general direction of Qibla is sufficient, especially when far from Makkah. A variance of a few degrees is acceptable. What matters is the sincere intention to face the Kaaba. In the UAE, since we're relatively close to Makkah, being within 5-10 degrees of the precise bearing is considered accurate enough for prayer.
How can I find Qibla without a compass or app?
In the UAE, Qibla is roughly toward the sunset direction (west-southwest). You can also: look for nearby mosques as they're aligned to Qibla, use the sun's position (Qibla is roughly where the sun sets in summer), or ask local Muslims. The shadow method can help too: at solar noon, your shadow points north/south, and Qibla is roughly 75-80 degrees clockwise from north in the UAE.