How Prayer Times Are Calculated in Riyadh (and Why They Change Daily)
Muslims pray five times a day, and each prayer has its specific time. Have you noticed that prayer times change daily in Riyadh? In this article, we’ll explain how prayer times are calculated and why they shift each day.
Why Are Prayer Times Important?
Prayer is one of the five pillars of Islam, and every Muslim must perform it at its proper time. Therefore, knowing Prayer Times in Riyadh accurately is essential. These times are based on the sun’s position in the sky.
Factors Affecting Prayer Times
- The position of the sun
- The city’s latitude and longitude
Riyadh lies at a specific point on Earth, and as the planet orbits the sun, the sun’s position changes daily — hence prayer times also vary.
The Five Daily Prayers and How They Are Calculated
Fajr (Before Sunrise)
Fajr begins at true dawn when the first light appears. In Riyadh, this depends on sunrise time, which shifts with the seasons.
Dhuhr (Noon)
Dhuhr begins when the sun passes its highest point in the sky, known as solar noon. This varies slightly each day.
Asr (Afternoon)
Asr begins when an object’s shadow equals its height (or twice its height, depending on the school of thought). This changes as the sun’s angle varies.
Maghrib (After Sunset)
Maghrib begins immediately after sunset. Since sunset time changes daily, Maghrib time also changes.
Isha (Night)
Isha begins when the red twilight disappears completely — the true night. This occurs at a different time every evening.
Why Do Prayer Times Change Daily in Riyadh?
Riyadh is located in Saudi Arabia’s desert region. Here’s why prayer times change daily:
- Earth’s rotation: The Earth rotates daily, shifting the sun’s position.
- Seasons: Days are longer in summer and shorter in winter.
- Sunrise and sunset: These times vary daily and directly affect prayer times.
Even a single minute can impact Fajr or Maghrib times.
How Are Prayer Times Calculated Today?
Today, we use Islamic calendars, mobile apps, mosque schedules, and digital tools to calculate prayer times accurately.
Who Determines the Official Prayer Times?
Prayer times are set by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, local mosques, and trusted apps. Most follow the Umm al-Qura calendar, which also shows today’s Hijri date.
Conclusion
Prayer times in Riyadh change daily due to the sun’s movement. You can easily follow Riyadh Azan through apps or websites. Don’t forget to check today’s date in Riyadh to organize your worship.
Stay connected. Pray on time. May Allah accept your prayers.