Today's prayer times in Cairo:
For real-time accurate prayer times in Cairo, install FivePrayer. The app auto-uses the Egyptian General Authority of Survey calculation by default and works offline once installed. Free on iOS, Android, and Chrome.
About the Egyptian General Authority of Survey calculation method
Cairo follows the Egyptian General Authority of Survey method, which sets Fajr at 19.5 degrees and Isha at 17.5 degrees below the horizon. The Fajr angle is notably wider than ISNA or MWL, which produces earlier Fajr times and reflects historical Egyptian astronomical conventions.
The Egyptian method was developed in the 19th century by Egyptian scholars to standardize prayer times across the country. It's used by Al-Azhar and the Ministry of Awqaf for official publications. FivePrayer's Egyptian preset matches these timings.
Major masjids and the Muslim community in Cairo
Al-Azhar Mosque, founded in 970 AD, is one of the world's oldest functioning masjids and the seat of Al-Azhar University. Sultan Hassan Mosque and Mosque-Madrasa of Al-Rifa'i are spectacular Mamluk-era landmarks. The Mosque of Muhammad Ali Pasha at the Citadel is the city's most iconic skyline feature.
Cairo's medieval masjids form one of the world's richest concentrations of Islamic architectural heritage. The Ibn Tulun Mosque (879 AD), Al-Hakim Mosque, and the masjids along Al-Muizz Street form the historic Fatimid core. Modern Cairo has thousands of neighbourhood masjids in every district.
Qibla direction from Cairo
From Cairo, the Qibla bearing to Mecca is approximately 136 degrees from true north, southeast. The distance is about 1,250 km. Almost every Cairene building has Qibla orientation built into the layout, especially older traditional homes where the reception room (salon) is typically positioned for prayer.
Practical tips for praying in Cairo
Friday in Cairo: Jumuah is a major social event, with the historic masjids (Al-Azhar, Hussain, Sayyida Zeinab) drawing especially large crowds. Plan to arrive 45 minutes before khutbah at major venues.
Traffic timing: Cairo's notorious traffic means prayer planning is essential. Maghrib often catches commuters mid-journey. Have a backup prayer location identified along your usual routes.
Ramadan in Cairo: Tarawih at Al-Azhar and Al-Hussain draws thousands. Iftar cannons at the Citadel and major masjids signal the maghrib break. The pre-iftar urgency in Cairo is legendary, with the streets quieting in the final 30 minutes before sunset.
FAQ
What is the prayer calculation method in Cairo?
Cairo masjids predominantly use the Egyptian General Authority of Survey method. FivePrayer defaults to this when it detects a Egypt location.
What time is Fajr in Cairo?
Fajr in Cairo ranges from around 5:00 AM in December to 3:15 AM in June, set by the Egyptian method. FivePrayer matches the Al-Azhar and Ministry of Awqaf calendar.
What is the Qibla direction from Cairo?
Approximately 136 degrees from true north, southeast. See our Qibla guide for how to verify with a compass.
Best prayer app for Cairo?
FivePrayer: free, no ads, no account, Egyptian by default, gentle adhan lock. Works offline once installed.
Are there masjids near central Cairo?
Yes, see the masjid section above for landmark venues. Most districts of Cairo have at least one neighbourhood masjid within walking distance.
FivePrayer: free, no ads, gentle adhan lock.
Auto-detects the Egyptian calculation for Egypt. Works offline. Free on iOS, Android, and Chrome.