The General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments, and Zakat issued an important advisory to request residents to avoid funeral prayers and the burial process during the afternoon hours.
The UAE issues funeral timing advisory on Friday to highlight that these activities should be conducted in the early morning or late evening when the temperature is comparatively lower, reducing the risk of heat-related illnesses, such as heatstroke. This move is said to protect public health amid the high summer temperatures.
Firsthand Experience with Soaring Heat
Summer days often mean extreme heat warnings and high humidity for most of the UAE residents. Those who have attended a midday funeral in the past years have reported signs of discomfort, fatigue, and fainting.
These days, the temperature in the UAE regularly exceeds 45 °C during the peak of the day. In addition, outdoor gatherings, especially emotionally and physically taxing ones like funerals, can instantly become hazardous for anyone’s health.
High Heat, High Risk: Why Afternoon Funerals Are Unsafe
The advisory highlights the dangerous temperature levels between 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM, which can significantly increase the chance of heatstroke, dehydration, and exhaustion for those who are attending the funeral.
These hours are the hottest parts of the day in the UAE. As we told you before, the daytime summer temperature could exceed 45 °C. Such heat poses severe health risks and makes the experience of a funeral more physically demanding.
UAE Issues Funeral Timing Advisory Encourages Early Morning and Evening Prayers
The authority suggests scheduling the funeral prayers and burials either before 10:00 AM or after 5:00 PM. These hours typically offer cooler conditions, which reduce the possibility of heat exhaustion. In addition, they allow families and communities to participate safely in events, like a funeral.
This guidance matches broader summer safety practices being observed across the UAE, where residents are regularly advised to restrict their outdoor activities during peak daylight hours.
Balancing Tradition with Safety
The directive shows the commitment of the UAE’s religious and civic bodies to preserve public well-being and the dignity with respect linked to the Islamic burial process. Traditionally, the funeral prayers are conducted as soon as possible after death.
However, Islamic principle allows the flexibility in funeral timing, especially when there is a valid health or safety concern. Therefore, the advisory highlights the balance between tradition and public health. In addition, it reinforces the value of compassion and care.
Ongoing Public Awareness Efforts
This part is a part of the broader initiative of the UAE to increase public awareness of health precautions during the extreme weather, especially in July and August, when the risk of heat-related issues is at its peak.
The statement issued by the General Authority is a reminder to mosques, cemeteries, and the general public to manage the funeral arrangements accordingly by considering spiritual responsibilities and safety.
Many mosques are expected to coordinate closely with the families to ensure the funeral timing falls outside the heat hours. In addition, public notices may be issued to encourage cooperation with the new guidelines.
Supporting the Community Through Responsible Planning
As the summer heat at its peak, community leaders and residents are encouraged to follow the advisory and plan the funeral arrangements during safe hours. It will help prevent medical emergencies and support the emotional with physical well-being of the grieving family.
Authorities are highlighting the importance of avoiding prolonged outdoor exposure and staying hydrated. Moreover, the officials are ensuring that elderly attendees or those with health conditions are protected from the unnecessary strain.
Such advisories play an important role in protecting public health and honoring religious customs with care and respect, as the UAE is experiencing high temperatures these days.
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