What is the Dhuhr Adhan?
The Dhuhr adhan is the call to prayer that announces the entering of the second prayer time of the day in Islam, recited when the sun begins to decline from its highest point in the sky (zawal) toward the west. As the second of the five daily adhans, the Dhuhr adhan is a sacred sound that calls Muslims to worship right at the middle of the day. The Dhuhr time refers to the moment when the sun crosses the meridian line and shadows begin to lengthen again; this astronomical event has been accepted throughout Islamic history as the fundamental criterion for determining prayer times.
The Dhuhr prayer is one of the most evident manifestations in daily life of prayer, which is one of the five pillars of Islam. The Dhuhr adhan, recited during the busiest hours of the day in the middle of work and engagements, reminds Muslims to step away from worldly affairs for a while and turn to their Lord. In this respect, the Dhuhr adhan is not merely a call announcing the entering of a time, but also a symbol of preserving spiritual balance amid worldly preoccupations. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "The five daily prayers are like a river flowing in front of the door of one of you; can any dirt remain on the person who washes in that river five times a day?" (Bukhari, Mawaqit al-Salat, 6), thereby emphasizing the purifying effect of prayer.
Historically, the Dhuhr adhan has played a critical role in organizing daily life in Islamic civilization. In Ottoman cities, with the Dhuhr adhan, markets and bazaars would briefly pause, tradesmen and craftsmen would head to the mosque, and government offices would take their midday break. Today as well, in many Islamic countries the Dhuhr adhan is regarded as a natural pause within working life. The concept of istiwa time — that is, the moment the sun is directly overhead — is the fundamental astronomical phenomenon that determines when the Dhuhr adhan is recited. A few minutes after this time, the sun inclines toward the west and the time for Dhuhr prayer begins.
The place of the Dhuhr adhan in Muslim societies becomes even more prominent on Fridays. The Dhuhr adhan recited on Friday also announces the time for the Friday prayer (Jumu'ah). The Friday prayer is a prayer that replaces the Dhuhr prayer and is obligatory to perform in congregation. For this reason, on Fridays the Dhuhr adhan carries the special quality of being a call that gathers the great weekly congregation. The Friday sermon (khutbah) in mosques and the Friday prayer that follows it have continued for centuries as one of the strongest symbols of unity and solidarity in Muslim societies.
What Time is the Dhuhr Adhan Recited?
"What time is the Dhuhr adhan today?" is one of the most frequently asked religious questions in Turkey. Because the Dhuhr adhan time depends on the time the sun crosses the meridian, it varies according to the season of the year and the geographical location of the city you are in. However, compared to the Fajr and Maghrib adhans, the seasonal variation in the Dhuhr adhan time is much smaller. Across Turkey, the Dhuhr adhan is recited approximately between 12:00 and 13:15.
In Istanbul, the Dhuhr adhan is recited around 13:10–13:15 in the summer months, while in the winter months it is recited around 12:10–12:15. In Ankara, the Dhuhr time falls approximately 10–12 minutes earlier than in Istanbul because Ankara lies further east. In Hakkari (Turkey's easternmost city), the Dhuhr adhan is recited about 40 minutes earlier than in Istanbul, while in Edirne (the westernmost) it is recited about 15 minutes later. This difference arises from the variation in longitude.
Another factor affecting the Dhuhr adhan time is the period of the year. Around the summer solstice, since the sun rises and sets later, the zawal time also shifts to later hours. At the winter solstice the reverse is true. Because of the permanent daylight saving time (UTC+3) implemented in Turkey since 2016, the Dhuhr adhan time may appear earlier on the clock face in winter months, but astronomically the time is calculated in the same way. For this reason, the most accurate approach is to follow the official times published by the Presidency of Religious Affairs (Diyanet).
The Presidency of Religious Affairs (Diyanet) calculates and announces Dhuhr adhan times for all provinces and districts across Turkey based on astronomical calculations. The Dhuhr time is set as a few minutes after the sun's meridian transit, because praying exactly at the moment of zawal is makruh. You can follow current Dhuhr adhan times via EzanVaktim.com or Diyanet's official mobile app. The dynamic clock indicator at the top of the page automatically displays the current Dhuhr adhan time based on your location.
When Does the Dhuhr Prayer Time Begin?
The time for Dhuhr prayer begins when the sun starts to decline from the zenith (the meridian) toward the west. Astronomically, this is the moment when the sun passes its highest position in the sky and begins to descend. In fiqh sources, this is defined as "when the shadow of an object starts to lengthen again from its shortest state." Behind this seemingly simple definition lies an astronomical and jurisprudential depth that Islamic scholars have been meticulously examining for centuries.
Correctly understanding the concept of zawal time is vital for determining the time of Dhuhr prayer. Zawal is the moment when the sun is directly overhead (at the point of istiwa). At this moment, the shadow of an object is at its shortest length. When the sun begins to decline from zawal, the shadows gradually lengthen, and it is precisely at this moment that the time for Dhuhr prayer begins. However, there is an important point here: the exact moment of zawal — that is, when the sun is on the meridian — is karahat time. Praying during this period is makruh. In Islamic jurisprudence, this karahat aims to avoid the worship hours of communities that worshipped the sun. The zawal karahat lasts approximately 5–10 minutes and ends when the sun begins to incline.
The time for Dhuhr prayer begins at zawal and continues until the time of the Asr prayer. Concerning the beginning of Asr, there is a difference of opinion among the madhhabs. According to the Hanafi madhhab, the Asr time begins when the shadow of an object reaches twice its own height (excluding the shadow at zawal), and the time for Dhuhr ends. According to the Shafi'i, Maliki, and Hanbali madhhabs, the Asr time begins when the shadow's length is one times the object's height. This difference can affect the last time of Dhuhr prayer, especially in the summer months. According to the Hanafi calculation, the duration of the Dhuhr time is longer, while according to the other madhhabs it is shorter.
Establish prayer at the decline of the sun until the darkness of the night, and the Qur'an of dawn. Indeed, the recitation of dawn is ever witnessed.
In modern astronomy, the sun's meridian transit time can be calculated with extreme precision. Thanks to this, the time for Dhuhr prayer can be determined minute by minute. In earlier times, however, Islamic scholars and astronomers used simple shadow-measurement methods to determine this time. They would wait for the moment when the shadow of a stick (gnomon) planted in the ground was at its shortest, and then, when the shadow began to lengthen, they understood that the Dhuhr time had entered. This method is a simple yet effective technique that can still be used today to verify the accuracy of astronomical calculations.
In a well-known hadith concerning the entrance of the Dhuhr prayer time, the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Gabriel (peace be upon him) led me in prayer twice by the Ka'bah. He led the Dhuhr prayer when the sun had declined and the shadow was the length of a sandal strap." (Abu Dawud, Tirmidhi). This hadith clearly establishes that the Dhuhr prayer time begins immediately after zawal. The Presidency of Religious Affairs (Diyanet) likewise determines Dhuhr times based on this hadith and astronomical calculations.
How Many Rakats is the Dhuhr Prayer?
The Dhuhr prayer is performed as a total of 10 rakats: 4 rakats first sunnah, 4 rakats fard, and 2 rakats final sunnah. There is no difference of opinion regarding the number of fard rakats among the four major madhhabs (Hanafi, Shafi'i, Maliki, Hanbali). The Dhuhr prayer is one of the prayers with the most rakats among the five daily prayers, and it holds a special importance due to being performed in the middle of the day.
The first sunnah of Dhuhr prayer: 4 rakats, classified as muakkad sunnah. The Prophet (peace be upon him) performed the first sunnah of the Dhuhr prayer with great care and recommended it to his ummah. In a noble hadith it is reported: "Whoever continues to pray four rakats before the fard of Dhuhr, Allah will forbid the fire of Hell for him" (Tirmidhi, Abu Dawud). This first sunnah is performed with a sitting after every two rakats (the first sitting); that is, after the first and second rakat one sits and recites Tashahhud (Ettehiyyatu), then performs the third and fourth rakats and gives the salam.
The fard of Dhuhr prayer: 4 rakats, obligatory upon every sane, adult Muslim. In the fard of Dhuhr, the imam recites silently (sirr); that is, the recitation is performed inaudibly. This differs from the Fajr, Maghrib, and Isha prayers, in which the imam recites aloud (jahr). The Prophet (peace be upon him) encouraged praying the fard of Dhuhr in congregation and informed of the virtue of attending the congregation at Dhuhr time.
| Prayer | Type | Rakats | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| First Sunnah | Sunnah | 4 | Muakkad sunnah — sitting after every two rakats |
| Dhuhr Fard | Fard | 4 | Fard al-ayn — silent (sirr) recitation |
| Final Sunnah | Sunnah | 2 | Muakkad sunnah — regular 2 rakats |
The final sunnah of Dhuhr prayer: 2 rakats, performed after the fard. This is also in the muakkad sunnah category. The Prophet (peace be upon him) used to pray 2 rakats of sunnah after the fard of Dhuhr. In some narrations it is also reported that 4 rakats were prayed after the fard; however, the common practice in the Hanafi madhhab is 2 rakats as the final sunnah. With its total of 10 rakats, the Dhuhr prayer holds an important place in daily worship. On Fridays, the Friday prayer (Jumu'ah) is performed instead of the Dhuhr prayer; the rakat structure of the Friday prayer is different and will be addressed separately.
How is the Dhuhr Prayer Performed?
The Dhuhr prayer is performed first with 4 rakats of first sunnah, then 4 rakats of fard, and finally 2 rakats of final sunnah. Each part's steps are explained in detail below. Before beginning the prayer, the conditions of being in a state of wudu, covering the awrah, facing the qiblah, and being within the prayer time must be fulfilled.
First Sunnah of Dhuhr Prayer (4 Rakats)
Intention (Niyyah) and Opening Takbir
Make the intention in the heart: "I intend to perform the first sunnah of the Dhuhr prayer." Raise the hands to the level of the ears (women to shoulder level) and say "Allahu Akbar" to begin the prayer.
Qiyam (Standing Recitation) — 1st and 2nd Rakats
Place the hands below the navel (Hanafi) or on the chest (Shafi'i). Recite in order: Subhanaka, Ta'awwudh and Basmalah, Surah al-Fatihah, and an additional surah. Perform ruku and prostrations. At the end of the second rakat, sit and recite Tashahhud (Ettehiyyatu) — this is the first sitting.
3rd and 4th Rakats
Stand up saying "Allahu Akbar". Recite Basmalah, Surah al-Fatihah, and an additional surah (in sunnah prayers an additional surah is recited in every rakat). Perform ruku and prostrations. At the end of the fourth rakat, sit and recite Tashahhud (Ettehiyyatu), Allahumma salli, Allahumma barik, and Rabbana atina supplications. Give the salam to the right and then to the left.
The Fard of Dhuhr Prayer (4 Rakats)
After the first sunnah, the iqamah is called and the fard of Dhuhr is performed. If praying in congregation, the imam is followed; if praying alone, it is performed as follows:
Intention (Niyyah) and Opening Takbir
Make the intention: "I intend to perform the fard of the Dhuhr prayer." If praying in congregation, add "following the imam." Begin the prayer by saying "Allahu Akbar".
1st and 2nd Rakats
Recite Subhanaka, Ta'awwudh and Basmalah, Surah al-Fatihah, and an additional surah. In the Dhuhr prayer, the recitation is performed silently (sirr). Perform ruku and prostrations. At the end of the second rakat, sit and recite Tashahhud (Ettehiyyatu).
3rd and 4th Rakats
Stand up and recite only Basmalah and Surah al-Fatihah (no additional surah is recited in the third and fourth rakats of fard prayer). Perform ruku and prostrations. At the end of the fourth rakat, recite all the supplications in the final sitting and give the salam.
The Final Sunnah of Dhuhr Prayer (2 Rakats)
After the fard, 2 rakats of final sunnah are performed. Its performance is like the sunnah of the Fajr prayer: the intention is made, 2 rakats are prayed, and the salam is given. In the final sunnah, Surah al-Fatihah and an additional surah are recited in each rakat.
The virtue of praying the Dhuhr prayer in congregation is great. A prayer performed in congregation is 27 times more virtuous than one performed alone. However, since the Dhuhr prayer coincides with work and school hours, many Muslims may have to pray this prayer alone. This does not affect the validity of the prayer; however, whenever possible, joining the congregation is a great source of reward.
Khushu (heart's presence and concentration) is especially important in the Dhuhr prayer. This prayer, performed during the busiest hours of the day in the midst of work-related stress, offers a unique opportunity for the soul to rest and the mind to be refreshed. Trying to free oneself from worldly thoughts while performing wudu and praying calmly without haste will increase the spiritual effect of the Dhuhr prayer. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Find the coolness of your eyes in prayer," thereby emphasizing the peace-giving aspect of prayer.
The Relationship Between the Friday Prayer (Jumu'ah) and the Dhuhr Prayer
The Friday prayer (Jumu'ah) is an obligatory act of worship in Islam that replaces the Dhuhr prayer and is considered one of the most important prayers of the week. When the Dhuhr time enters on Friday, those who are obligated to perform the Friday prayer pray the Friday prayer instead of the Dhuhr prayer. In the Qur'an it is stated: "O you who have believed! When the call to prayer is made on Friday, hasten to the remembrance of Allah and leave off trade. That is better for you, if you only knew." (Surah al-Jumu'ah, Verse 9).
The Friday prayer is obligatory upon adult, free, resident (non-traveling), healthy, male Muslims. Women, travelers (those on a journey), the sick, those who cannot come to the mosque due to blindness or physical disability, and children are not obligated to perform the Friday prayer; they pray the Dhuhr prayer. According to the Hanafi madhhab, for the Friday prayer to be obligatory, there must be an imam to deliver the sermon (khutbah) and a sufficient congregation in the place where one is.
The rakat structure of the Friday prayer differs from that of the Dhuhr prayer. The Friday prayer is performed as follows: first, 4 rakats of first sunnah are prayed (like the first sunnah of the Dhuhr prayer). Then the imam delivers the sermon (khutbah); the khutbah is one of the conditions of the Friday prayer and consists of two parts. After the khutbah, 2 rakats of fard are prayed (in place of the 4 rakats of fard of the Dhuhr prayer). Finally, 4 rakats of final sunnah are prayed. While some scholars say that the final sunnah of the Friday prayer is 4 rakats, others have recommended praying a total of 6 rakats as 4+2 final sunnah.
The most fundamental difference between the Friday prayer and the Dhuhr prayer is the requirement that the Friday prayer must be performed in congregation. While the Dhuhr prayer can be performed alone, the Friday prayer cannot be performed alone. In addition, the khutbah is a condition of the Friday prayer; a Friday prayer without a khutbah is not valid. In the khutbah, the imam admonishes the congregation, recites verses from the Qur'an, and makes supplication. This khutbah holds great importance in Muslim societies as a weekly occasion of being informed and gaining consciousness.
Whoever performs wudu well on Friday, then comes to the mosque, listens silently to the khutbah, and prays his prayer, his sins between that Friday and the next will be forgiven, with three additional days.
There are many noble hadiths concerning the virtue of Friday. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "The best of days is Friday. Adam was created on it, was placed in Paradise on it, and was expelled from Paradise on it" (Muslim). The Muslims who gather in mosques at the Dhuhr time on Friday both fulfill their worship and strengthen their social unity and solidarity. For this reason, the Friday prayer is the most vivid example of the social dimension of Islam.
The Virtue and Importance of the Dhuhr Prayer
Whoever continues to pray four rakats before the fard of Dhuhr and four rakats after it, Allah will forbid the fire of Hell for him.
This noble hadith clearly reveals what a great reward there is in regularly praying the sunnahs of the Dhuhr prayer. The promise of being forbidden from the fire of Hell is one of the greatest glad tidings in Islam, and this glad tiding is given to those who persist in the sunnahs of the Dhuhr prayer. It is narrated that the Prophet (peace be upon him) never abandoned the first sunnah of the Dhuhr prayer.
That the Dhuhr prayer is performed in the middle of the day carries a special spiritual meaning. Setting everything aside and standing in the presence of Allah during the busiest hours of worldly engagement is one of the most beautiful expressions of servitude. The Dhuhr prayer, performed in the midst of work, commerce, education, and social life, enables a Muslim to maintain balance in daily life. In the Qur'an it is stated: "Those whom neither trade nor sale distracts from the remembrance of Allah, from establishing prayer, and from giving zakat" (Surah an-Nur, Verse 37), emphasizing the importance of not abandoning prayer despite worldly preoccupations.
The Dhuhr prayer is also an important turning point in dividing the day into two. The time from the Fajr prayer until Dhuhr forms the first half of the day; the time from Dhuhr until evening forms the second half. The Dhuhr prayer serves as a bridge between these two halves, helping the Muslim structure his day around worship. The Prophet (peace be upon him) informed that the Dhuhr time is a time when the gates of Paradise are opened.
The Dhuhr prayer also has a special place from a social standpoint. Especially the small mosques (masjids) located in workplaces and shopping centers experience their busiest moments at Dhuhr time. People from different professions and different social classes, standing shoulder to shoulder in the same row in prayer, practically live out Islam's principle of equality and brotherhood. In Ottoman civilization, circles of knowledge would form in mosques after the Dhuhr prayer, sermons would be delivered, and social issues would be discussed. The continuation of this tradition today contributes to the strengthening of the Muslim community.
How Many Hours Are There Between the Dhuhr Adhan and the Asr Adhan?
The duration between the Dhuhr adhan and the Asr adhan varies according to the seasons and the location. This duration is of great importance, as it determines the time available to perform the Dhuhr prayer. Across Turkey, this period varies between approximately 3 hours 30 minutes and 5 hours.
| Month | Istanbul (hr) | Ankara (hr) | Antalya (hr) |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | ~3:30 | ~3:25 | ~3:35 |
| February | ~3:40 | ~3:35 | ~3:40 |
| March | ~3:55 | ~3:50 | ~3:50 |
| April | ~4:15 | ~4:10 | ~4:05 |
| May | ~4:35 | ~4:30 | ~4:20 |
| June | ~4:50 | ~4:45 | ~4:30 |
| July | ~4:45 | ~4:40 | ~4:25 |
| August | ~4:25 | ~4:20 | ~4:15 |
| September | ~4:00 | ~3:55 | ~3:55 |
| October | ~3:45 | ~3:40 | ~3:45 |
| November | ~3:30 | ~3:25 | ~3:35 |
| December | ~3:25 | ~3:20 | ~3:30 |
As can be seen from the table above, the period between Dhuhr and Asr lengthens in summer (approximately 4.5–5 hours) and shortens in winter (approximately 3–3.5 hours). This is because the sun's path through the sky is longer in the summer months. The lengthening of daytime at the summer solstice indirectly increases the duration between Dhuhr and Asr as well.
The practical importance of this time difference is as follows: in the summer months, there is a wider time window for performing the Dhuhr prayer. However, praying in the early hours of the time is always more virtuous. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "The most virtuous of deeds is the prayer performed at its time" (Bukhari, Mawaqit al-Salat, 5). For this reason, praying as soon as one hears the Dhuhr adhan or as soon as possible is the most desirable behavior.
The shortening of the period between Dhuhr and Asr in the winter months is a situation that requires attention especially for working Muslims. In the short winter days, delaying the Dhuhr prayer may cause the Asr time to enter and the Dhuhr prayer to be missed. For this reason, it is recommended to take care to pray the Dhuhr prayer early in the winter season.
When is the Last Time for Dhuhr Prayer?
The last time for the Dhuhr prayer ends with the entering of the Asr prayer time. Concerning the beginning of Asr, there is a difference of opinion among the madhhabs. According to the Hanafi madhhab, the Asr time begins when the shadow of an object reaches twice its own height (excluding the shadow at the moment of zawal). According to the Shafi'i, Maliki, and Hanbali madhhabs, the Asr time begins when the shadow's length is one times the object's height, and the time for Dhuhr ends.
The practical result of this difference between the madhhabs is as follows: according to the Hanafi madhhab, there is a longer period for the Dhuhr prayer. For example, in Istanbul in the summer months, according to the Hanafi calculation Asr time falls around 17:00, while according to the Shafi'i calculation it enters around 16:00. This difference is important especially for those who delay their prayer until its last time. In Turkey, the Presidency of Religious Affairs (Diyanet) bases its calculations on the Hanafi madhhab.
With the entering of the Asr time, the Dhuhr prayer time ends completely. After this, anyone who wishes to perform the Dhuhr prayer must intend it as qada (makeup). In the makeup prayer, only the 4 rakats of fard are performed; the sunnahs are not made up. The Prophet (peace be upon him) strongly recommended praying within the prayer time, and said: "The prayer performed at its time is the most virtuous deed." For this reason, the most correct approach is to pray the Dhuhr prayer as much as possible in the early hours of the time.
What Should Those Who Miss the Dhuhr Prayer Do?
Those who miss the Dhuhr prayer due to work, school, sleep, or other excuses should perform the makeup (qada) prayer immediately upon remembering or finding the opportunity. The Prophet (peace be upon him) made the following clear statement on this matter: "Whoever forgets a prayer or sleeps through it should pray it when he remembers. There is no expiation other than this." (Bukhari, Mawaqit al-Salat, 37; Muslim, Masajid, 314).
The method of performing the makeup prayer is as follows: Only the 4 rakats of fard of the Dhuhr prayer are made up; the first sunnah and final sunnah are not made up. The intention should be: "I intend to perform the fard of the last Dhuhr prayer I missed." The performance of the prayer is the same as when prayed within its time; there is no difference. The recitation is still performed silently (sirr).
The Dhuhr prayer, being the prayer among the five daily prayers that most often coincides with work and school hours, is one of the most frequently missed prayers. In situations where one cannot find the opportunity to pray at the workplace, or when it conflicts with meeting or class times, the Dhuhr prayer may be missed. However, this is not an excuse for abandoning the prayer. It must be made up as soon as possible.
Regularly missing the Dhuhr prayer and making it a habit is a serious religious negligence. A Muslim is obligated to take the necessary precautions to be able to perform his prayer. Searching for a small mosque (masjid) at the workplace, using the lunch break for prayer, setting an alarm, and managing time are some of these precautions. Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) said: "Preserve your prayers; for whoever abandons prayer will more easily abandon the other rulings of the religion."
For those who have accumulated makeup prayers, Islamic scholars have recommended performing one or several makeup prayers each day alongside the daily prayers to gradually reduce the debt. For example, praying one Dhuhr makeup prayer after each Dhuhr prayer will reduce the debt over time. What is important is that the intention is sincere and that the makeup prayers are performed regularly. Performing makeup prayers is also a form of repentance and reparation for past sins.
Praying the Dhuhr Prayer at the Workplace and at School
Since the Dhuhr prayer falls during work and school hours of the day, many Muslims must perform this prayer at the workplace or at school. While this situation brings with it some practical difficulties, it is a problem that can be overcome with proper planning and determination. In Turkey, many workplaces and educational institutions have small mosques (masjids) or prayer rooms; researching these is the first step.
1. Look for a Masjid or Prayer Room
Find out whether there is a masjid at your workplace or school. Many shopping malls, hospitals, universities, and large business centers have masjids. By also researching nearby mosques, determine the most suitable place for the Dhuhr prayer.
2. Make Use of the Lunch Break
Plan your lunch break for prayer. Pray first, then eat your meal. The Dhuhr prayer (together with its sunnahs) takes approximately 15–20 minutes; this time can easily fit within a standard lunch break.
3. Arrange a Place for Wudu
Look for a place to perform wudu at the workplace or school. Sinks and washrooms can be used for wudu. To avoid breaking your wudu, you can also benefit from the permission to wipe (mash) over leather socks (khuffayn).
4. Prayer Mat and Qiblah Direction
Keep a small prayer mat or a clean cloth with you. You can use smartphone apps to determine the direction of the qiblah. At the office, an empty meeting room or a quiet corner will be sufficient for prayer.
5. Manage Your Time
Keep track of the Dhuhr adhan time and pray as early as possible. Setting a phone alarm for the Dhuhr adhan time is an effective method to ensure you do not forget the prayer. EzanVaktim.com or similar applications will assist you in this regard.
6. Know Your Rights
In Turkey, freedom of religion and conscience is a constitutional right. Your right to pray at the workplace is under legal protection. By discussing this matter politely but firmly with your employer, you can request the opportunity to pray.
Praying the Dhuhr prayer at the workplace or at school may seem challenging at first, but it becomes a natural habit over time. What matters is determination and consistency. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "The most beloved deeds to Allah are those that are continuous, even if small" (Bukhari). Starting with small steps and being regular will both strengthen your worship life over time and serve as a positive example to the people around you.
Dhuhr Adhan Text and Recitation
The Dhuhr adhan is recited in accordance with the general form of the five daily adhans. Unlike the Fajr adhan, the phrase "As-salatu khayrun mina an-nawm" does not appear in the Dhuhr adhan. Below are the full text of the Dhuhr adhan, its transliteration, and its English meaning.
Dhuhr Adhan Text
اَللهُ اَكْبَرُ اَللهُ اَكْبَرُ
Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar (4 times) — Allah is the Greatest
اَشْهَدُ اَنْ لَا اِلٰهَ اِلَّا اللهُ
Ashhadu an la ilaha illallah (2 times) — I bear witness that there is no god but Allah
اَشْهَدُ اَنَّ مُحَمَّدًا رَسُولُ اللهِ
Ashhadu anna Muhammadan Rasulullah (2 times) — I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah
حَيَّ عَلَى الصَّلَاةِ
Hayya 'ala as-salah (2 times) — Hasten to prayer
حَيَّ عَلَى الْفَلَاحِ
Hayya 'ala al-falah (2 times) — Hasten to success
اَللهُ اَكْبَرُ اَللهُ اَكْبَرُ
Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar — Allah is the Greatest
لَا اِلٰهَ اِلَّا اللهُ
La ilaha illallah — There is no god but Allah
Adhan Supplication (Du'a Recited After the Adhan)
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "When you hear the adhan, repeat what the muezzin says. Then send salawat upon me... Then ask Allah for al-wasilah for me" (Muslim, Salat, 11). Accordingly, during the adhan one should repeat each phrase of the muezzin, while during "Hayya 'ala as-salah" and "Hayya 'ala al-falah" one should say "La hawla wa la quwwata illa billah" (There is no power or strength except with Allah).
Supplication After the Adhan
اَللّٰهُمَّ رَبَّ هٰذِهِ الدَّعْوَةِ التَّامَّةِ وَالصَّلَاةِ الْقَائِمَةِ اٰتِ مُحَمَّدًا الْوَسٖيلَةَ وَالْفَضٖيلَةَ وَابْعَثْهُ مَقَامًا مَحْمُودًا الَّذٖى وَعَدْتَهُ
"Allahumma Rabba hadhihi al-da'wati al-tammah wa as-salati al-qa'imah, ati Muhammadan al-wasilata wa al-fadilah, wab'athhu maqaman mahmudan alladhi wa'adtah."
Meaning: "O Allah! Lord of this perfect call and the prayer to be performed! Grant to Muhammad al-wasilah (a high station in Paradise) and al-fadilah (eminence), and raise him to the praiseworthy station that You have promised him."
The Prophet (peace be upon him) gave glad tidings to those who recite this supplication after the adhan: "Whoever recites this supplication after hearing the adhan, my intercession on the Day of Judgment will become permissible for him" (Bukhari, Adhan, 8). For this reason, reciting this supplication after every adhan — and especially after the Dhuhr adhan — is a great source of reward and means of intercession. It is also considered proper conduct to refrain from talking during the adhan, to pause what you are doing if possible, and to listen to the adhan with khushu.
Surahs Recited in the Dhuhr Prayer
The Dhuhr prayer is one of the prayers in which recitation is performed silently (sirr). The imam, or one praying alone, recites Surah al-Fatihah and the additional surah inaudibly. In the Dhuhr prayer, reciting surahs of medium length is sunnah. The Prophet (peace be upon him) used to recite surahs of similar length to those in the Fajr prayer in the Dhuhr prayer.
In the First and Final Sunnah
- Each Rakat: Al-Fatihah + A surah of your choice
- Examples: Al-Fil, Quraysh, Al-Ma'un, Al-Kawthar, Al-Kafirun, An-Nasr, Al-Ikhlas, Al-Falaq, An-Nas
In sunnah prayers, an additional surah is recited in every rakat.
In the Fard Prayer
- 1st and 2nd Rakats: Al-Fatihah + A surah of medium length
- 3rd and 4th Rakats: Al-Fatihah only
No additional surah is recited in the last two rakats of fard.
Some of the surahs the Prophet (peace be upon him) is reported to have recited in the fard of Dhuhr include: Surah al-Buruj, Surah at-Tariq, Surah al-Layl, Surah al-A'la, and other surahs of similar medium length. It is sunnah to recite a longer surah in the first two rakats and only Surah al-Fatihah in the last two rakats. This practice is accepted as the general rule in four-rakat fard prayers.
Individuals praying Dhuhr alone may recite any surah they know after Surah al-Fatihah. They may also choose short surahs; the prayer is valid in any case. What is important is that the verses recited are pronounced correctly with proper tajweed and reflected upon in meaning. Since the recitation in the Dhuhr prayer is silent, one recites in a whisper that he can hear himself; however, it is preferred that those next to him do not hear.
Dhuhr Adhan Times in Summer and Winter
The Dhuhr adhan time shows less seasonal variation compared to the other prayer times. This is because the Dhuhr time depends on the sun's meridian transit, and this event occurs in a relatively fixed time window throughout the year. Nevertheless, there is still a difference of approximately 30–60 minutes between the summer and winter months. The permanent daylight saving time (UTC+3) applied in Turkey makes this difference more pronounced.
| City | Summer (June) | Winter (December) | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Istanbul | ~13:14 | ~12:12 | ~1 hour |
| Ankara | ~12:58 | ~11:58 | ~1 hour |
| Izmir | ~13:20 | ~12:20 | ~1 hour |
| Antalya | ~13:12 | ~12:15 | ~57 min |
| Trabzon | ~12:42 | ~11:48 | ~54 min |
| Diyarbakir | ~12:32 | ~11:40 | ~52 min |
| Hatay | ~12:48 | ~11:58 | ~50 min |
As can be seen from the table above, the summer–winter difference in Dhuhr adhan time varies between approximately 50 minutes and 1 hour. This difference is much smaller than the 2–3 hour differences seen in the Fajr and Maghrib adhans. In western cities (Istanbul, Izmir) the Dhuhr adhan is recited later, while in eastern cities (Diyarbakir, Trabzon) it is recited earlier. This difference arises from the longitude variation along Turkey's east–west extent.
To keep track of seasonal changes, it is important to regularly check current prayer times. EzanVaktim.com automatically calculates and displays the current Dhuhr adhan time based on your location. By enabling mobile notifications, you can receive reminders before the Dhuhr adhan, so you don't miss seasonal changes. The early entrance of the Dhuhr time, especially in the winter months, is a situation that working Muslims should be attentive to.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many rakats is the Dhuhr prayer?
The Dhuhr prayer is a total of 10 rakats: 4 rakats of first sunnah (muakkad), 4 rakats of fard, and 2 rakats of final sunnah (muakkad). In the first sunnah there is a sitting after every two rakats; that is, at the end of the second rakat Tashahhud (Ettehiyyatu) is recited, then one stands up and prays the third and fourth rakats. In the fard prayer as well, the first sitting is performed at the end of the second rakat. The Dhuhr prayer is one of the prayers with the most rakats among the five daily prayers. On Fridays, the Friday prayer (Jumu'ah) is performed instead of the Dhuhr prayer; in the Friday prayer the fard is 2 rakats, but together with the sunnahs the total again comes to around 10 rakats.
What time is the Dhuhr adhan recited?
The Dhuhr adhan is recited when the sun begins to decline from the zenith (the meridian) toward the west. In Turkey this time generally varies between 12:00 and 13:15. In the summer months it falls at a later hour (in Istanbul around ~13:14), and in the winter months at an earlier hour (in Istanbul around ~12:12). It is recited earlier in the eastern provinces and later in the western provinces. You can follow current Dhuhr adhan times via EzanVaktim.com or the official app of the Presidency of Religious Affairs (Diyanet).
When does the Dhuhr prayer time begin?
The Dhuhr prayer time begins when the sun passes the highest point in the sky (zawal) and begins to decline toward the west. Astronomically, this is a few minutes after the moment the sun crosses the meridian. Since praying exactly at the moment of zawal is makruh, the Presidency of Religious Affairs (Diyanet) sets the Dhuhr prayer time as a few minutes after zawal. The lengthening of an object's shadow from its shortest state is the physical indicator that the Dhuhr time has entered.
When does the last time for Dhuhr prayer end?
The last time for the Dhuhr prayer ends with the entering of the Asr prayer time. According to the Hanafi madhhab, the Asr time begins when the shadow of an object (excluding the zawal shadow) reaches twice its own height. According to the Shafi'i madhhab, the Asr time begins when the shadow reaches the length of one times the object's height. The Presidency of Religious Affairs (Diyanet) bases its calculations on the Hanafi madhhab in Turkey. Once the Asr time enters, the Dhuhr prayer time has ended, and it can only be performed as a makeup (qada) prayer.
Does the Friday prayer take the place of the Dhuhr prayer?
Yes, the Friday prayer (Jumu'ah) takes the place of the Dhuhr prayer. On Fridays, those who are obligated to perform the Friday prayer (adult, free, resident, healthy male Muslims) do not pray the Dhuhr prayer; they pray the Friday prayer instead. Women, travelers, the sick, and those with disabilities are not obligated to perform the Friday prayer, so they pray the Dhuhr prayer. The Friday prayer is a prayer with the condition of the khutbah (sermon) and must be performed in congregation; it cannot be prayed alone.
How is the Dhuhr prayer performed?
The Dhuhr prayer is performed in the following order: First, 4 rakats of first sunnah are prayed; in this sunnah, at the end of the second rakat one sits and recites Tashahhud (Ettehiyyatu) — the first sitting — then stands up to pray the third and fourth rakats. Then 4 rakats of fard are prayed, either in congregation or alone; in the fard the imam recites silently (sirr), and in the third and fourth rakats only Surah al-Fatihah is recited. Finally, 2 rakats of final sunnah are prayed. With a total of 10 rakats, the Dhuhr prayer is completed.
I missed the Dhuhr prayer — what should I do?
A person who has missed the Dhuhr prayer should pray it as a makeup (qada) prayer as soon as he remembers or finds the opportunity. In the makeup prayer, only the 4 rakats of fard are performed; the sunnahs are not made up. The intention should be: "I intend to perform the fard of the last Dhuhr prayer I missed." The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Whoever forgets a prayer or sleeps through it should pray it when he remembers." In cases of regular missing due to work or school, it is necessary to take the necessary precautions and look into the possibility of a masjid.
Is there a karahat time at Dhuhr?
Yes, the moment of istiwa (zawal), when the sun is directly overhead, is karahat time, and prayer is not performed during this period. This duration lasts approximately 5–10 minutes. Istiwa time is the moment when the sun is exactly on the meridian and the shadows are at their shortest. When the sun begins to decline from zawal, karahat ends and the Dhuhr prayer time enters. According to the Hanafi madhhab, neither fard nor voluntary (nafilah) prayer is performed during the zawal karahat. The Dhuhr time published by the Presidency of Religious Affairs (Diyanet) is set as a few minutes after zawal, taking this karahat period into account.
