Saudi Arabia bans live streaming of Taraweeh prayers from mosques

An aerial view of the Kaaba, Islam’s holiest site located in the center of the Masjid al-Haram (Grand Mosque) in Mecca, Saudi Arabia on January 8, 2023 [Hani Alshaer/Anadolu Agency]

The Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance has issued new directives prohibiting the use of cameras in mosques to film the imam and worshippers during prayers, including Taraweeh evening prayers during Ramadan, and banning the broadcasting or live streaming of prayers on any media platform, the official Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported.

The ministry stated that these measures aim to preserve the sanctity of mosques and maintain a suitable atmosphere for worship, ensuring that worshippers are not distracted. It also emphasised the importance of imams and preachers adhering to the ministry’s guidelines and guiding worshippers to observe proper etiquette inside mosques.

Additionally, the ministry stressed that collecting financial donations to organise Iftar meals in mosques is not permitted. If such meals are arranged, they must be held in designated areas under the supervision of the relevant authorities, while ensuring compliance with health and safety measures.

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