![A general view of Hagia Sophia Museum and its surroundings remain empty due to the measures against the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic in Istanbul, Turkey on 3 May 2020. [Mehmet Eser - Anadolu Agency]](https://i0.wp.com/www.middleeastmonitor.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/20200503_2_42227827_54495786.jpg?fit=1178%2C800&ssl=1)
After completing all preparations, Turkey will open Hagia Sophia for worship on July 24 at Friday prayer, the Turkish president said on Friday, Anadolu Agency reports.
In an address to the nation, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan delivered his remarks on the new status of Hagia Sophia — which was used as a museum for the past decades but will serve as a mosque following a recently adopted decree on Friday.
The president said Hagia Sophia’s doors will be open for Turks, foreigners, Muslims, and non-Muslims as is the case with all other mosques.