UAE Prayer Times (2025): Methods, Angles and Juristic Settings + Free Calculator
Learn how daily prayer timings are computed: calculation methods (Umm al‑Qura, MWL, Moonsighting), Fajr/Isha angles, juristic setting for Asr (Shafi‘i/Hanbali/Maliki vs Hanafi), and local adjustments. Use our free Prayer Times tool for accurate timings across UAE cities.
Updated: Oct 27, 2025 · 9 min read · By ADAD Team
Quick summary
- Official timetables: Local UAE authorities publish official schedules; minor differences from mathematical methods may occur.
- Method matters: Different organizations (Umm al‑Qura, MWL, Moonsighting, etc.) use distinct parameters and angles.
- Use our tool: The Prayer Times tool lets you pick a method/juristic setting and shows daily timings for your city.
Calculation methods (common)
- Umm al‑Qura (Makkah): Widely used in GCC contexts; Isha sometimes fixed by interval.
- MWL: Muslim World League parameters; popular globally.
- Moonsighting Committee: Conservative angles with emphasis on observational alignment.
- Egyptian General Authority, University of Islamic Sciences (Karachi), ISNA, etc.
Our tool supports popular methods; official UAE timetables may follow their own parameters.
Fajr and Isha angles
Typical Fajr/Isha angles range between 14° and 20° depending on the method. Angles determine dawn and nightfall thresholds; conservative angles yield earlier Fajr and later Isha.
Asr juristic setting
Standard (Shafi‘i/Maliki/Hanbali): Asr begins when an object’s shadow equals its length plus noon shadow. Hanafi: begins at twice the length. Our tool lets you choose.
Local adjustments and practical tips
- Use your city and method consistently.
- When in doubt, follow the official timetable for your emirate/masjid.
- Some authorities apply fixed Isha intervals or seasonal adjustments—expect slight differences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What calculation method does the UAE use for prayer times?
The UAE officially uses the Umm al-Qura method from Saudi Arabia for most purposes, though local authorities may apply slight adjustments. The General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments (Awqaf) publishes official prayer timetables. Our calculator supports multiple methods including Umm al-Qura, Muslim World League (MWL), Islamic Society of North America (ISNA), and Egyptian General Authority.
Why do prayer times differ between Dubai and Abu Dhabi?
Prayer times are calculated based on the sun's position relative to your geographic location. Dubai (longitude 55.27°E) and Abu Dhabi (longitude 54.37°E) are about 130 km apart, causing roughly 3-4 minutes difference in prayer times. Coastal cities may also have slight variations due to altitude and horizon considerations.
What is the difference between Hanafi and Shafi'i Asr time?
The Hanafi school calculates Asr as when an object's shadow equals twice its length plus the shadow at noon. The Shafi'i (and Maliki/Hanbali) schools calculate it as when the shadow equals the object's length plus the noon shadow. This typically results in Hanafi Asr being 45-75 minutes later than Shafi'i Asr, depending on the season.
Does the UAE observe Daylight Saving Time?
No, the UAE does not observe Daylight Saving Time (DST). The country uses Gulf Standard Time (GST, UTC+4) year-round. This means prayer times shift naturally with the seasons but there are no clock changes to account for.
What are the Fajr and Isha angles used in the UAE?
Different calculation methods use different sun angles. Umm al-Qura uses 18.5° for Fajr and a fixed 90 minutes after Maghrib for Isha. MWL uses 18° for both Fajr and Isha. ISNA uses 15° for both. The angle determines how far below the horizon the sun must be for twilight prayers. Higher angles mean earlier Fajr and later Isha times.
Should I follow calculated times or mosque times?
For congregational prayers, always follow your local mosque's announced times, as they may include adjustments for iqamah (the call to start prayer) and local considerations. Calculated times are useful for personal prayer planning, travel, and understanding when each prayer window begins and ends.
How accurate are online prayer time calculators?
Most reputable calculators are accurate to within 1-2 minutes when using correct location data and calculation methods. Variations occur due to different methods, altitude adjustments, and local horizon conditions. For critical timing (like starting a fast), it's recommended to add a safety margin of a few minutes and verify against official local timetables.
Official schedules from UAE authorities take precedence over computed values. When in doubt, follow your local masjid's timetable.