Kuwait has implemented measures to reduce energy consumption in mosques, including limiting prayer durations and closing indoor prayer halls.
Kuwait’s Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs has introduced new guidelines for mosques as part of a nationwide effort to reduce electricity consumption. The decision follows a request from the Ministry of Electricity, Water, and Renewable Energy, as the country braces for high summer power demands. These new rules are being executed across all six governorates and are meant to cut down on energy use without disrupting religious obligations.
Key Changes to Mosque Operations
• Shortened Prayer Times
Imams have been instructed to reduce the duration of daily prayers. The time between the adhan (call to prayer) and iqama (start of prayer) should be minimal, particularly for Dhuhr and Asr. The objective is to keep the prayers short and efficient.
• Use of Outdoor Courtyards
Indoor prayer halls will now be closed for all five daily prayers. Worshippers are encouraged to pray in open courtyards, where cooling systems are less energy-intensive.
• Air Conditioning Limits
For daily prayers, any air conditioning used outdoors must be set to 25°C.
For Friday prayers, indoor air conditioning is allowed but must be kept at 22°C in automatic mode, only from Thursday evening to the end of Friday services.
Women’s Prayer Halls Adjustments
• Women’s sections in mosques will remain closed during daily prayers.
• Exceptions will be made in mosques where religious lectures are held. Even in those cases, cooling will be limited, and the space must be closed immediately after the session ends.
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Scheduled Power Cuts in Mosques
• Mosques will face scheduled electricity blackouts, especially after Dhuhr and Asr prayers.
• The move is part of a larger campaign to minimize load on the power grid during peak hours.
Balancing Worship and Responsibility
These changes may feel inconvenient to many worshippers, especially during the hot summer months, but officials say they are required. With power consumption reaching record highs and electricity infrastructure under pressure, even mosques must play their part.
The directive is also intended at setting a precedent—showing that religious institutions can lead by example in the national effort to conserve energy. While the alterations are temporary, they reflect Kuwait’s growing urgency to balance everyday life with sustainability goals.
Kuwait’s initiative is about preparing for a more sensible and energy-conscious future.