Thousands gather for Laylat al-Qadr prayers in Eastleigh mosques

Thousands gather for Laylat al-Qadr prayers in Eastleigh mosques

At Business Bay Square Mall, hundreds of Muslims performed the Tahajjud prayers on Thursday in the lower grounds near the food court and other areas after the mosque and the open green space reached full capacity.

Thousands of Muslims gathered in Eastleigh on the 27th night of Ramadan in search of Laylat al-Qadr, a night believed to be better than a thousand months. Worshippers filled mosques, with many praying on adjacent pavements and open spaces.

At Business Bay Square Mall, hundreds of Muslims performed the Tahajjud prayers on Thursday in the lower grounds near the food court and other areas after the mosque and the open green space reached full capacity.

The same situation was observed at Masjid Abubakar on 7th Street, one of the largest mosques in Eastleigh, as well as at 8th Street Mosque and Al Hidaya Mosque on Jam Street.

Muslims pray tahajjud at Masaajid Abubakar on 27th night of Ramadan 2025. (Photo: Abdirahman Khalif)

Many worshippers continued their prayers in the cold night without hesitation.

As early as 12:30 a.m., mosques were already full, even though prayers start at around 2:00 a.m. Many wanted to ensure they secured a place in the mosque, given the significance of this night.

Laylat al-Qadr, also known as the Night of Power, is believed to be the night when the Quran was first revealed. While its exact date remains unknown, it is widely believed to be on the 27th night of Ramadan.

At Business Bay Square Mall, Eastleigh, a large number of Muslims seeking lailatul qadr, the night of power, take part in Tahajjud prayers on the 27th night of Ramadan. (Photo: Abdirahman Khalif)

Muslims are encouraged to seek this night in the last ten days of Ramadan, particularly on the odd-numbered nights.

The Quran describes Laylat al-Qadr as “better than a thousand months” (Quran 97:3), emphasising its spiritual importance.

On this night, Muslims engage in prayer, recite the Quran, seek forgiveness, and reflect on their faith. It is believed that Allah forgives sins and determines the destiny of individuals for the coming year on this night.

Sheikh Abdi Umal, the imam of Masjid Abubakar, urged worshippers to take full advantage of the remaining days of Ramadan.

“Ramadan will come to an end soon. Repent, ask Allah for forgiveness, and make the most of these last 10 days,” he said.

Prayers ended at 4.00 am, and as worshippers left the mosques, the streets were crowded with thousands making their way home for suhoor, the pre-dawn meal before fasting begins.

Eastleigh has remained active throughout the last 10 days of Ramadan, with businesses and restaurants operating 24 hours to cater to the large number of worshippers.

Laylat al-Qadr remains one of the most significant nights in the Islamic calendar, with believers dedicating themselves to worship in the hope of receiving Allah’s mercy and blessings.

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