Jinnah Antarctic Research Station, operational since 1991, emerges as likely site of inaugural salah in Antarctica amid Pakistan’s polar scientific missions.
The Jinnah Antarctic Station, Pakistan’s permanent research facility established in 1991, is recognized as the first confirmed location where Islamic prayers (salah) were performed on the Antarctic continent.
Situated in the East Antarctic region, the station has served as a scientific and logistical base for decades.

Operated by Pakistan’s National Institute of Oceanography, the station conducts year-round studies in glaciology, marine biology, and climate science.
Since its inauguration, Muslim members of winter-over teams have maintained prayer routines within designated spaces at the base, despite extreme cold, months-long darkness, and isolation.
While informal worship likely occurred earlier during transient expeditions, documented communal prayers began with the station’s continuous operation.

A small musallah (prayer area) was established inside the main living module, oriented toward Mecca using calculated qibla directions specific to the Antarctic region.
Antarctic Treaty protocols respect all forms of religious observance across research stations. The Government of Pakistan confirmed the station remains active today, with ongoing research and religious accommodation for personnel.
The station is named for Muhammad Ali Jinnah, founder of Pakistan.
Hateem is also known as Hajr Ismail, it has separate prayer timings for both male and female pilgrims.
The Hateem (also known as Hajr Ismail), a sacred area within Masjid al-Haram in Makkah, is considered part of the original Kaaba structure, making it one of the most sought-after spots for worshipers.
Access to this sacred area is carefully regulated to ensure orderly conduct and provide equal opportunities for both men and women to offer prayers.
Men’s Prayer Timings
10:00 PM to 2:00 AM
Men can perform their prayers in the Hateem during the evening hours, from 10:00 PM to 2:00 AM. This time frame allows worshipers to engage in their spiritual practices without the heavy crowds that often gather later in the day.
Women’s Prayer Timings
7:30 AM to 11:00 AM
Women have their designated prayer time in the morning, from 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM.
It is important to note that these timings can vary slightly due to various operational reasons, such as cleaning, maintenance, or other unforeseen circumstance
Duration
10 minutes
Entrance
Western Side
For instance, there have been instances where the Hateem was opened later than the scheduled time, as seen when it opened at 7:30 AM instead of 8:00 AM due to cleaning activities.
The Hateem is believed to be a part of the original Kaaba built by Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham). Praying in the Hateem is considered highly meritorious, and many pilgrims make it a point to include this in their pilgrimage rituals.
For those planning to visit the Hateem, it is advisable to check for any updates on timings to ensure a smooth and fulfilling experience.