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Tuesday 16 Jun 2026
LOCAL EDITION
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LOCAL EDITION
HDC opens N1 Sports Park in Hulhumale Phase I, May 18, 2026. (Photo/HDC)
The Sports Ministry has instructed sports associations to suspend all sports activities for 20 minutes at every sports venue immediately after the call to prayer.
In a circular sent to associations on Monday, the ministry said the suspension is part of the government’s policy to halt sports activities for 20 minutes at all venues once the prayer call is made.
Accordingly, the ministry has asked associations to implement the policy.
The ministry added that some sports competitions have already been scheduled. A ministry official noted that in some tournaments, matches may overlap with prayer times.
“For example, if a match starts at 5pm or 5:30pm and is played for points, the prayer time may come before the game ends. In such cases, the match will not be suspended for 20 minutes. However, practice sessions will have to be stopped,” the official said.
The official said the ministry is in discussions with associations and relevant agencies to ensure the policy is implemented under a strong framework.
The official added that while some sports venues already have facilities for prayer, others do not have adequate arrangements. Work is underway to establish proper prayer facilities in these venues.
The President announced on the first day of this month that sports activities will be suspended during prayer times.
He said the change is intended to make it easier for people to pray without missing their prayer time while playing sports.
In addition to suspending sports during prayer time, arrangements will also be made for prayers to be held at the venue, he said.
“If prayer time comes while playing sports, discussions have been held on arranging prayers inside the venue after the game is suspended,” he said.
The President noted that it has become common to see people still on the field even after prayer time. He also highlighted the lack of adequate prayer facilities in venues such as the Sports Association and Maafannu Stadium.
