Minister of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs Mohammad Khalaileh on Thursday issued a circular following the government decision allowing worshippers to perform Isha (evening prayer) and Taraweeh (special Ramadan prayer) in mosques for 45 minutes, provided that worshippers go on foot.

The circular encouraged worshippers to abide by public safety measures, notably wearing face masks, following physical distancing rules, avoiding shaking hands, as well as bringing a prayer mat.

Prayer spaces will be open for women, the circular said, urging the elderly, children and people with health conditions not to attend prayers in mosques during this exceptional situation.

To ensure safety, the minister stressed the need to perform the prayer in the shortest possible time.

The circular affirmed that mosques that fail to abide by health measures will be closed in coordination with the related bodies.