Shocking Changes in Saudi Arabia's Ramadan Rules

TLDRSaudi Arabia has made several surprising changes to their rules for Ramadan, including shorter prayers, restrictions on cameras, banned donations, and more. These changes are part of a broader liberalization campaign led by Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman.

Key insights

🕌Prayers during Ramadan must be kept brief, and imams and muzins should not be absent except for extreme necessity.

📷Cameras are not allowed in mosques and recordings of prayers are prohibited.

💰Donations for feeding fasting individuals are no longer accepted in mosques.

👦🚫Children under the age of 12 are advised not to be brought to mosques during Ramadan.

🔉The volume of mosque loudspeakers has been reduced to address complaints of excessive noise.

Q&A

Why are prayers being shortened during Ramadan?

Shortening prayers during Ramadan is a directive from the Minister of Islamic Affairs to ensure that prayers are not overly time-consuming and to make it easier for worshippers.

Why are cameras banned in mosques?

The ban on cameras in mosques is aimed at preserving the sanctity and focus of prayers and preventing distractions.

Why are donations not allowed in mosques for feeding fasting individuals?

The Ministry of Islamic Affairs has prohibited donations in mosques to maintain cleanliness and hygiene, as well as to prevent any potential misuse of funds.

Why are children advised not to be brought to mosques during Ramadan?

Bringing children to mosques during Ramadan could disrupt prayer times and make it difficult for worshippers to focus. It is advised to find alternative arrangements for their care.

Why has the volume of mosque loudspeakers been reduced?

The reduction in volume aims to address complaints from the public about excessive noise, particularly from the elderly and parents whose children's sleep was being disturbed.

Timestamped Summary

00:00Saudi Arabia has made surprising changes to their rules for Ramadan, including shorter prayers, camera restrictions, banned donations, and more.

02:09Children under the age of 12 are advised not to be brought to mosques during Ramadan to avoid disruptions.

03:53The volume of mosque loudspeakers has been reduced to address complaints of excessive noise.

05:59Prayers are banned from broadcast to preserve the sanctity of prayers and prevent distractions.

07:00Mall hours have been adjusted so that they are open to everyone in two shifts during Ramadan.