Egypt's Ministry of Awqaf allocates 6626 public squares for Eid Al Fitr prayers

CAIRO - 19 March 2026: Egypt's Ministry of Awqaf has designated 6626 public squares across the country for the performance of Eid Al Fitr prayers in addition to major mosques.

This initiative aims to facilitate the religious observance for citizens in a safe organized and spiritual atmosphere.

The Ministry has completed early preparations by equipping the designated squares and mosques to the highest standards with special areas reserved for the elderly and people with special needs.

Several key regulations have been issued to ensure the sanctity and order of the prayers:

- Commitment to designated squares only with a total ban on prayers in unauthorized locations

- Strict prohibition against using prayer squares for any activities other than the Eid prayer

- Maintaining the cleanliness of mosques and public property

- Coordination with all relevant state authorities to manage crowds and ensure smooth entry and exit

- Proper management of loudspeakers to ensure clarity for worshipers without causing public disturbance

The Ministry emphasized that the attendance of men women and children for Eid prayers is highly encouraged as a Sunnah of the Prophet Peace Be Upon Him Specific guidelines have been set to maintain decorum and prevent overcrowding.

- Designated Areas: Specific sections will be allocated for women to ensure they do not mix with men rows in accordance with Sharia principles

- Female Preachers: Specialized female preachers (Waizat) will be deployed to supervise women prayer areas providing guidance and ensuring the smooth flow of the ceremony

- Separation Protocols: In public squares women will be stationed in the rear or side sections with a clear barrier or partition separating them from the men prayer area

- Exiting Etiquette: Following the Sunnah men and women are encouraged to exit at different times or through different gates to prevent congestion at the entrances

The Ministry clarified that Eid prayer is a confirmed Sunnah that can be performed in mosques or open squares as determined by the authorities It noted that praying in a large central mosque carries the same spiritual reward as praying in an open field based on the teachings of Imam Al Shafi’i and Imam Al Nawawi Furthermore if a person misses the congregational prayer due to a valid excuse they may perform it individually at home or their place of work.

All regional directorates are currently monitoring the final preparations to ensure that the Eid prayers reflect the beauty of the occasion and the values of faith and community joy.