Namaz TimesJumu'ah: the Friday prayer
What the Friday congregational prayer is, when it is held in relation to the Dhuhr time, what the sermon is, and what a timetable can and cannot tell you.
Jumu'ah is the weekly congregational prayer held on Friday at the time of Dhuhr. It replaces the usual Dhuhr prayer for those who attend. It has two parts: a sermon (khutbah) given by the imam, then a prayer of two rakat in congregation. The name comes from jam', gathering.
When is it?
It falls in the Dhuhr window, from soon after the sun passes its highest point until the time of Asr begins. In practice every mosque fixes its own time, often between 12:30 and 2:00 pm, and many hold more than one congregation to fit the people who come. The Dhuhr time on this site is the earliest time it can begin; your mosque's notice board gives the real time of the khutbah.
What happens
People bathe and dress well, come early and sit quietly. When the imam begins the khutbah they listen. After the sermon the prayer is made in congregation. It is encouraged to be present from the start of the sermon.
Who is it for?
It is obligatory for adult men who are residents and able to attend, and women and travellers are not required to attend but may. Rules about quorums and details differ between the schools of thought. Please ask your local imam about any specific question.
On this site
The monthly timetable of every city page highlights Fridays so you can see the Dhuhr time of each Friday at a glance. Use the finder to print your month.
This page explains general practice in plain words. It is not a religious ruling. Schools of thought and local communities differ in details; for your own practice, ask a trusted teacher or your local mosque.
Questions people ask
Can I pray Jumu'ah at home?
It is a congregational prayer; individuals who miss it pray Dhuhr. Ask your imam about your case.
Why is the time at my mosque later than Dhuhr here?
Mosques choose a convenient time within the Dhuhr window.