Massive Crowds Expected in UAE for Laylat Al Qadr Prayers

As the holy month of Ramadan draws to a close, Sharjah’s Sheikh Saud Al Qasimi Mosque, popularly known as the Bukhatir Mosque, is preparing for what is expected to be its largest congregation yet.

The 27th night of Ramadan, widely believed to be Laylat Al Qadr, or the Night of Power, holds immense significance in Islamic tradition, drawing worshippers in record numbers.

After a powerful night of worship on the 25th of Ramadan, thousands are now gearing up to attend prayers on Wednesday, a night believed to bring blessings “better than a thousand months.”

Preparing for a Massive Turnout

On Monday night, crowds at the mosque in Sharjah’s Al Shahba neighborhood overflowed its official capacity of 2,300, with thousands more praying along nearby streets. Volunteers handed out water bottles to worshippers braving the long night of prayers, including Uday from Palestine, who served despite using crutches due to a leg injury. “If I can stand, I can serve,” he said, balancing water boxes on his forearms. “It’s the least I can do on a night like this.”

Families spread out prayer mats along sidewalks, traffic medians, and intersections — an indicator, seasoned attendees say, of the even bigger turnout expected on the 27th night.

“This is nothing compared to what is coming,” said Abdul Qadeer, a sourcing manager from Hyderabad, India, who attended with his teenage sons. “On the 27th, people will be here from every corner of the UAE.”

Anticipation and Traffic Warnings

Mosque officials estimate that 7,000 to 10,000 worshippers gather on each of the 21st, 23rd, and 25th nights of Ramadan, but they expect that number to triple on the 27th.

“The entire neighborhood transforms into a giant open-air mosque,” said a volunteer. “People pray wherever they can find space — roads, pavements, even traffic islands. If you’re driving, park at least 2km away, or better, arrive by 11pm.”

To manage the influx, internal roads in Al Shahba may be closed, with diversions redirecting motorists through Sharjah’s Hilwan area.

A Night of Reflection

Laylat Al Qadr is described in Islamic tradition as a calm, peaceful night. Many recalled the hadith: “Laylat Al Qadr is a calm night, neither hot nor cold, and the sun rises on it red and feeble.”

At the center of this profound gathering is Sheikh Salah Bukhatir, whose recitations have become synonymous with the final ten nights of Ramadan. Sheikh Salah, who has led the Laylat Al Qadr prayers at this mosque for 36 years, is deeply respected for his emotional and steady recitation of the Quran.

“His voice reminds me of Sheikh Al Sudais from Mecca,” said Omar Abdelrehman Musa from Sudan. “There’s the same depth and power. When he makes duaa, it feels like he’s speaking for all of us.”

Prayers and Silent Hopes

The prayers at Bukhatir Mosque carry a deeper meaning for many. Hisham, 57, who has been attending prayers there for over two decades, spoke about praying for peace. “Tonight, I prayed again for my country,” he said, referring to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. “All I can do is raise my hands and ask Allah for mercy.”

Others, like Hiba from Egypt, said they were overcome with emotion during the long supplications. “It’s like the Sheikh knows what our hearts want to say but can’t express,” she said.

Farha from Bihar, India, and her husband have made it a family tradition to attend prayers at Bukhatir Mosque during the final ten nights of Ramadan for over 20 years. “We plan our whole month around these prayers,” she said. “Wednesday night is the one we look forward to the most.”

What is Laylat Al Qadr?

Laylat Al Qadr, or the Night of Power, commemorates the night when God revealed the Quran to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) through the angel Jibreel (Gabriel). Though the exact date is not mentioned in the Quran, it is believed to fall on one of the last ten nights of Ramadan, with the 27th night being most widely observed.

What Happens on Laylat Al Qadr?

Muslims dedicate the night to increased devotion, with special acts of worship including:

• Qiyam (night prayer): Worshippers stay awake all night for special prayers.

• Dua (supplication): Prayers for forgiveness, mercy, and blessings are made.

• Quran Recitation: Many reflect on, recite, or memorize verses from the Quran.

A Night of Spiritual Awakening

As the 27th night approaches, anticipation is building. For many worshippers, it is more than just a night of ritual. It is a night of reflection, surrender, and hope — a night when silent prayers are believed to reach the heavens.

In mosques across the UAE, the faithful will gather for what may be the most spiritually profound night of the year, seeking mercy, forgiveness, and blessings for themselves, their loved ones, and the world.

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