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Sunni Endowments Council Inspects Eid Prayer Grounds Preparations

Sunni Endowments Council Inspects Eid Prayer Grounds Preparations

Daily Tribune27-03-2025
As part of reviving the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) by holding Eid prayers in designated prayer grounds, Sheikh Dr. Rashid Mohammed bin Futtais Al Hajeri, Chairman of the Sunni Endowments Council, conducted a field visit to inspect the preparations for Eid Al-Fitr prayer sites across the Kingdom. These prayer grounds will be opened in all governorates to welcome worshippers for the blessed occasion.
On this occasion, Dr. Al Hajeri emphasized the government's commitment to equipping mosques and open-air prayer grounds with the necessary facilities, ensuring a comfortable and spiritually enriching environment for worshippers. He highlighted that these efforts align with the vision of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the support of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister.
Dr. Al Hajeri stated that these inspection visits ensure the full readiness of Eid prayer grounds, allowing worshippers to perform their prayers with ease. During his tour, he reviewed the ongoing preparations, including the installation of carpets, audio and electronic equipment, the safety of electrical connections, and the implementation of an entry and exit plan to ensure a smooth flow of worshippers and prevent overcrowding.
He further noted that the main Eid prayer sites have a total capacity of approximately 85,000 worshippers, distributed across 18 main outdoor prayer areas covering 52,000 square meters in various governorates. Additionally, 14 dedicated prayer sites will accommodate Muslim expatriate communities, with a total capacity of 18,000 worshippers. Mosques will also remain open for Eid prayers.
In conclusion, Dr. Al Hajeri expressed his gratitude to all stakeholders and supporting entities that contributed to preparing the Eid prayer sites. These include the Ministry of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture, Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities, Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Information, General Sports Authority, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Youth Affairs, Electricity and Water Authority, King Hamad Hospital, Bahrain Defence Force, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Housing, Ministry of Works, government hospitals, various associations, and community outreach centers. Their collective efforts have played a key role in ensuring the success of the Eid prayer initiative.
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