AR
UR
Heads of various religious institutions in the UAE have welcomed new social distancing measures imposed by the authorities in places of worship across the country.
On February 9, UAE authorities issued relevant social distancing measures to be followed by people in places of worship. According to the latest update, social distancing requirement between people in places of worship has been reduced to one metre.
Welcoming the update, Mohammed Al Hassan Khan, the Imam of a masjid in Deira, said that a greater number of worshippers will be able to participate in pray and masjid with social distancing between the worshipper reducing to one metre from 1.5 metres.
"Worshippers are often seen praying outside the masjid. Due to change in weather, it is a bit difficult during Zohar prayer, and it will be solved now," he added.
Dr Abdul Hameed Zafrul Hassan, the Imam of a masjid in International City, hailed the decision as a crucial measure amid efforts to return to normalcy in the country.
The Imam also praised UAE residents for displaying continuous support and adherence to the precautionary measures laid down by the authorities to keep all religious institutions safe. He stressed the importance of following safety protocols before every prayer.
"If someone is seen to be complacent with the safety measures, the heads of the institution personally advise them," he added.
He also underlined that social distance for ablutions (Wudhu) would remain the same, noting that the authorities have not issued any directives related to this.
"Wudhu or ablution can be done at home before coming to the masjid, which also contributes to one's good deeds. If you are on the move, then a worshipper can do Wudhu at the masjids," he added.
Addressing a recent COVID-19 media briefing of the government, Dr Saif Al Dhaheri, the official spokesperson for the National Crisis and Emergency Management Authority (NCEMA), said that the authorities continue to monitor the pandemic situation in the country to ensure strict compliance with precautionary measures.
Meanwhile, Gurudarbar Sindhi Temple in Bur Dubai will not be decreasing the social distance between worshippers.
"We will continue with the 1.5-metre distance," said Gopal Kookani, the General Manager of the Gurudarbar Sindhi Temple, Bur Dubai.
He commended the move as useful for devotees with the aim of keeping them safe and allowing them to offer pooja in a relaxed manner.
In conclusion, all religious leaders have urged all worshippers to continue following social distancing norms and isolate themselves in case of experiencing COVID-19 related symptoms.
SOURCE : Khaleej Times