Ramadan 2025: Sharjah to offer live Friday sermon translations in 40 languages
New initiative enhances accessibility for non-Arabic-speaking worshippers in mosques
Sharjah’s Department of Islamic Affairs has launched a pioneering initiative to provide real-time translations of Friday sermons in 40 languages.
The move, ahead of Ramadan 2025, marks a first in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), enhancing accessibility for non-Arabic-speaking worshippers.
The initiative was unveiled at Al-Maghfira Mosque in Al-Seif, one of the largest mosques in Sharjah.
Live sermons via Minbar app
The Minbar app, available on App Store and Google Play, enables users to listen to live or recorded translations in languages including English, French, Urdu, and Pashto.
Worshippers can choose between text and audio formats and even download sermons for later reference.
The Department of Islamic Affairs highlighted that the app aims to strengthen cultural and religious understanding, allowing a diverse congregation to engage more deeply with Friday sermons. By leveraging modern technology, this initiative fosters inclusivity and supports the UAE’s vision of becoming a global hub for innovation and tolerance.
Positive reception
The launch has been widely praised, especially among expatriate communities who often struggle with language barriers during religious gatherings. The department stated that this represents a “qualitative leap in community communication”, reaffirming the UAE’s commitment to technological advancement in religious affairs.