Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Islamic Affairs has announced that mosques will not be permitted to use outdoor loudspeakers for prayers during Ramadan. This continues a policy that began in 2021.
Limited Broadcasts
Minister Sheikh Abdullatif Al Sheikh confirmed that external broadcasts are restricted to only the call to adhan and the iqama. This means that only the initial call to prayer and the immediately preceding call will be broadcast outside the mosque.
Reasoning Behind the Restriction
The ministry has cited Islamic teachings that emphasize humility and discourage ostentation in worship. The restriction is intended to limit noise pollution and ensure prayers are heard respectfully within the mosque.
