Janazah (Islamic funeral prayer)

The janazah (more formally Salat al-Janazah) is the Islamic funeral prayer, performed as a communal obligation (fard kifayah) for any Muslim who has died. In the UK it is usually held at the mosque, but it can also take place at the graveside, in a prayer hall, or at a funeral director's premises that has space for it. The prayer is led by an imam standing at the front, facing the qiblah (the direction of Makkah), with the congregation behind in rows.

The structure is distinctive: four takbeers ("Allahu Akbar"), with specific supplications between each, and no bowing, prostration, or sitting. The prayer itself usually runs 10 to 15 minutes; the full funeral gathering at the mosque typically takes 30 to 60 minutes including the body's arrival, the prayer, and the procession to the burial.

Every Muslim who can attend is encouraged to do so. Women may attend; practice on this varies between communities. Non-Muslims are welcome to be present and stand respectfully during the prayer.

→ Muslim funeral customs in the UK · Faith-specific funerals

Last verified: 2 May 2026 against the Muslim Council of Britain guidance.