Saudi worshippers pray for rain at the Grand Mosque in Makkah – in pictures

Saudi Arabia's King Salman directs worshippers to perform Salaat Al Istisqaa

Worshipers perform Istisqaa prayers at the Grand Mosque in Makkah in November, 2020. Courtesy Makkah Province

The prayer for rain is known as Salaat Al Istisqaa. Courtesy Makkah Province

The prayers were requested by Saudi Arabia's King Salman on Tuesday. Courtesy Makkah Province

The prayer represents a good imitation of the deeds of Prophet Mohammed. Courtesy Makkah Province

At this time of year, leaders in the Arabian Gulf often call on the faithful to conduct prayers across the country when the expected rainfall is delayed. Courtesy Makkah Province

Prince Khalid bin Faisal Al Saud, the governor of Makkah Province, joined the prayers at the holy mosque. Courtesy Makkah Province

Prince Khalid bin Faisal Al Saud, the governor of Makkah Province, joined the prayers at the holy mosque. Courtesy Makkah Province

Rain is decided by God as is evidenced in the Quran. “And it is He who sends down the rain after they had despaired and spreads His mercy. And He is the Protector, the Praiseworthy”. (Ash-Shoura: 28). Courtesy Makkah Province

Worshippers performed salaat al istisqaa prayers on Thursday at the Grand Mosque in Makkah.

Prayers for rain were requested by King Salman on Tuesday. Leaders in the Arabian Gulf often direct mosques to perform mass rain prayers at this time of year when expected rainfall is delayed.

Prince Khalid bin Faisal Al Saud, the governor of Makkah Province, joined the faithful at the mosque. Other mosques across Saudi Arabia also performed istisqaa prayers.

The prayer represents a good imitation of the deeds of Prophet Mohammed.