Why is the Isha Prayer Time Different in Mecca? (Umm Al-Qura vs ISNA)
If you've ever traveled or checked an international prayer time app, you may have noticed something confusing: The calculation for Isha prayer time in Mecca follows a completely different mathematical rule than what is used in most mosques in the United States and Canada.
This difference primarily comes down to two major Islamic astronomical bodies: The Umm Al-Qura University in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, and the ISNA (Islamic Society of North America).
The Standard ISNA Method (USA & Canada)
In North America, the vast majority of mosques follow the ISNA calculation method. This method is based on the angle of the sun below the horizon.
- Fajr: Calculated when the sun is 15 degrees below the eastern horizon.
- Isha: Calculated when the sun reaches 15 degrees below the western horizon.
Because this method relies on a fixed angle rather than a fixed time, the gap between Maghrib (sunset) and Isha changes dynamically throughout the year. In the winter, Isha might enter just 75 minutes after Maghrib, while in the summer, it could take well over 90 minutes for the twilight to fade to 15 degrees.
Did you know? Our US City Search Tool defaults to the ISNA method, ensuring your prayer times perfectly match the schedule printed at your local American mosque.
The Umm Al-Qura Method (Mecca & Saudi Arabia)
In Saudi Arabia, the Umm Al-Qura University established a different standard for the country, which is what you hear when listening to live broadcasts from the Grand Mosque (Masjid al-Haram) in Mecca.
- Fajr: Calculated when the sun is 18.5 degrees below the eastern horizon (making Fajr slightly earlier than ISNA).
- Isha: Instead of using a solar angle, Umm Al-Qura uses a fixed time gap. Isha is set exactly 90 minutes after Maghrib all year round.
- Ramadan Exception: During the holy month of Ramadan, the gap is extended to exactly 120 minutes to give worshippers ample time to eat Iftar and prepare for Taraweeh prayers.
Which Method Should I Use?
As a general rule in Islamic jurisprudence, it is highly recommended to follow the calculation method adopted by your local community and local mosques to maintain unity in congregation. If you live in the USA or Canada, the ISNA method (15 degrees) is the standard and safest choice.
However, if you are using an app or our website, you always have the option to toggle your calculation method based on your personal or madhhab preferences.