Tarawih Prayer Times 2026
Tarawih (Taraweeh) prayers are special voluntary night prayers offered during Ramadan after Isha. Find mosques offering Tarawih near you, including prayer times, number of rakaat, and imam details.
Frequently Asked Questions about Tarawih
What is Tarawih prayer?
Tarawih (also spelled Taraweeh) are extra voluntary night prayers performed during the month of Ramadan after the Isha prayer. They are a confirmed Sunnah (Sunnah Mu'akkadah) of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). The word "Tarawih" comes from the Arabic word meaning "to rest," as worshippers traditionally take short breaks between sets of rakaat.
How many rakaat are in Tarawih?
There are two main practices: 8 rakaat (plus 3 Witr) and 20 rakaat (plus 3 Witr). Both are valid positions within Islamic scholarship. Many mosques in Australia offer 8 rakaat, while others offer 20. Some mosques offer both options at different times. The Prophet (peace be upon him) prayed the night prayer in sets of two, and scholars differ on the total number he regularly prayed during Ramadan.
When is Tarawih prayed?
Tarawih is prayed after the Isha prayer every night during Ramadan. It begins on the first night of Ramadan (after Maghrib on the eve of the first fasting day) and continues until the last night before Eid al-Fitr. The exact time varies by location as it depends on when Isha is prayed.
Can I pray Tarawih at home?
Yes, Tarawih can be prayed individually at home. However, praying it in congregation (jama'ah) at the mosque is highly recommended and carries greater reward. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Whoever stands (in prayer) with the imam until he finishes, it will be recorded for him as if he prayed the whole night." (Abu Dawud, Tirmidhi)
When does Ramadan 2026 start in Australia?
Ramadan 2026 begins on February 19, 2026, in Australia, based on regional moon sighting. Tarawih prayers begin on the eve of the first day of Ramadan, so the first Tarawih is on the night of February 18-19.
Is Tarawih obligatory (fard)?
No, Tarawih is not obligatory (fard). It is a confirmed Sunnah (Sunnah Mu'akkadah), meaning it is strongly recommended. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Whoever stands (in prayer) during Ramadan with faith and seeking reward, his previous sins will be forgiven." (Bukhari, Muslim)
What is the difference between Tarawih and Tahajjud?
Both are voluntary night prayers, but they differ in timing and context. Tarawih is prayed specifically during Ramadan, typically right after Isha in congregation at the mosque. Tahajjud is prayed year-round, usually in the last third of the night after sleeping, and is more commonly prayed individually. During Ramadan, some mosques hold late-night Tahajjud/Qiyam al-Layl sessions in addition to Tarawih, especially in the last 10 nights.