CDP Theme Day: Empty
The first of every month, City Daily Photo members participate in a worldwide theme day. This month’s theme is “Empty.” I chose this photo of an empty mall. In Saudi Arabia, all businesses are required to close during prayers five times a day. Some businesses open and close with each prayer time, and other businesses might be open from 9am-12pm, and then close all afternoon and open up maybe at 5pm, closing again for the sundown prayer and the final evening prayer. Many businesses stay open late into the evening past midnight. Many malls have designated but separate places where men and women can pray, as well as places for them to wash up properly before praying. All shops must close during prayers for about 30 minutes to one hour.
Click here to view thumbnails for all participants
Tags: business, mall, Muslim, prayer, Religion
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July 2, 2009 at 5:29 pm
Shops in Kelantan, Malaysia, also close for afternoon prayer on Fridays. This includes McDonald and other food chains! So please take away if you are having lunch. On other days Muslim workers take turns to pray, isn’t that a better solution?
July 2, 2009 at 7:38 pm
I have often wondered why they couldn’t do the prayers on a rotating basis, instead of closing everything down all at one time. I really do think it would be a better solution.
July 4, 2009 at 8:52 pm
Because offering prayers as early as possible is better.
July 2, 2009 at 2:25 pm
…and you, Susie? Not praying!
Sydney Daily Photo
July 2, 2009 at 9:52 am
Great shot for the theme day!
July 2, 2009 at 8:29 am
Good shot.
Sydney – City and Suburbs
July 1, 2009 at 7:21 pm
very cool image
July 1, 2009 at 6:53 pm
What happens if a shop doesn’t close?
July 1, 2009 at 4:51 pm
You have again combined an excellent photo with fascinating cultural information.
It was great to meet you recently. I hope you enjoy the rest of your trip.
July 1, 2009 at 4:26 pm
Impressive! I think I’ve never seen a mall empty until now!
July 1, 2009 at 3:52 pm
My first thought was that it was a desolate shopping centre until I read the reason. I really should have thought of prayers. A super choice for today and one that talks about your city and life.
July 1, 2009 at 11:25 am
it’s by choice not force Jocob! I pray 5 times a day and i do close my office, though i’m not in KSA!
July 1, 2009 at 9:55 am
Wow.
But I’m glad it’s empty because of prayers and not because of lack of shoppers!
July 1, 2009 at 6:42 am
Great choice! It almost seems a little sad with no shoppers at all.
July 1, 2009 at 5:25 am
Where were all the people, praying I suppose. Nice concept shot.
July 1, 2009 at 2:10 am
Your post is spot on! A forced emptiness, I guess.
July 1, 2009 at 12:57 am
Superb interpretation. Almost ghostly!
July 1, 2009 at 12:54 am
Wow:) Really empty:)