Saudi Arabia Reiterates Ban on Outdoor Loudspeakers for Prayers During Ramadan

Saudi Arabia has reiterated its ban on the use of outdoor loudspeakers for prayers throughout the holy month of Ramadan, confirming that mosques will not be permitted to broadcast prayers through external speakers during the fasting period.

Sheikh Abdullatif Al Sheikh, Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, said the use of outdoor loudspeakers will be strictly limited to the call to prayer (adhan) and the iqama, the second call that signals the start of congregational worship. All other prayers must be conducted using indoor sound systems only.

The clarification came as the Ministry of Islamic Affairs issued a circular on Tuesday outlining a series of instructions and guidelines for the preparation of mosques ahead of Ramadan. The directive stressed the importance of adhering to official prayer times in accordance with the Umm Al-Qura calendar, including the precise scheduling of the Isha prayer. Mosques were also instructed to ensure that the prescribed interval between the adhan and the iqama is observed for each prayer.

The ministry further directed that iftar meals should be organised exclusively in designated mosque courtyards, while calling for careful regulation of water donations to meet actual needs without excessive stockpiling.

In addition, mosque caretakers and maintenance teams have been instructed to intensify cleaning and safety measures across all facilities. Special attention has been placed on ensuring women’s prayer areas are fully prepared, clean and accessible throughout the holy month.

According to the ministry, the measures are intended to create a calm, organised and spiritually enriching atmosphere for worshippers during Ramadan, while also maintaining consideration for surrounding residential communities.