Saudi King Salman Calls for Special Rain Prayer Across Kingdom
King orders nationwide Salat Al-Istisqa on November 13 as Gulf nations seek divine intervention amid dry conditions
Saudi Arabia’s King Salman bin Abdul Aziz has issued a royal decree calling on all residents to participate in a special rain-seeking prayer, known as Salat Al-Istisqa, on Thursday, November 13.
The prayer will be held across all regions of the Kingdom as citizens gather to ask for God’s mercy and rainfall during this period of dry weather.
In Islamic tradition, Salat Al-Istisqa is a special two-unit prayer where worshippers seek forgiveness and ask God to provide rain. The prayer is followed by a sermon, during which the imam encourages the community to repent sincerely and pray for rainfall.
The Saudi Royal Court released a statement urging everyone to increase their acts of worship in the coming days. “Everyone is encouraged to seek forgiveness, show kindness to others, give charity, perform extra prayers, and remember God frequently,” the statement read.
The royal court also called on people to help ease the difficulties faced by others and provide relief to those in distress, hoping that God will answer their prayers.
Saudi Arabia is not alone in seeking divine intervention for rain. Kuwait held a similar prayer on Saturday, November 8, with gatherings taking place in 125 mosques across the country.
The United Arab Emirates also organized rain prayers on October 17, following a directive from President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed. The special prayer was held before the regular Friday prayer in mosques throughout the Emirates.
The coordinated prayers across the Gulf region highlight the shared concern about dry conditions affecting the area.
