Can someone who is not allowed to perform prayer at their workplace pray by making gestures (imā)?

In the Qur'an, it is stated, “Allah does not burden any soul beyond its capacity.” (al-Baqara, 2/286). Based on this verse, the fundamental principle “Obligation is according to ability” (Marghinani, al-Hidaya, 2/83) has been established. The essential rule is that the conditions and pillars of prayer should be fulfilled completely. Performing prayer by gesturing with the head (imā) is only permissible when it is not possible to pray in the normal way. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “If you can prostrate on the ground, then do so. If you cannot prostrate on the ground, then gesture with your head. When gesturing for prostration, lower your head more than you do for bowing.” (Abu Ya‘la, al-Musnad, 3/345-346). Praying by imā is considered a solution only in cases of illness and is discussed in the books of Islamic jurisprudence under the topic of “the prayer of the sick” (Sarakhsi, al-Mabsut, 1/212).

Not being allowed to pray at the workplace does not remove a person’s ability to perform prayer, but rather eliminates the practical opportunity to do so despite having the ability. Not being able to pray due to circumstances, while being physically able, is not among the situations that permit praying by imā. Therefore, a person who is in an environment where prayer is not allowed cannot perform their prayer by imā. It is preferable for someone working in such an environment to seek another job where they can comfortably fulfill their religious duties. If they cannot find such a job and leaving their current job would result in being unable to provide for themselves or those they are responsible for, then, if possible, they may combine their prayers according to the rules. That is, they may combine Dhuhr and ‘Asr by performing ‘Asr early at Dhuhr time or delaying Dhuhr to ‘Asr time; similarly, they may combine Maghrib and ‘Isha by delaying Maghrib to ‘Isha time or performing ‘Isha at Maghrib time. However, it should be remembered that this is an exceptional ruling. If even this is not possible, they may make up the missed prayers at the first available opportunity. Indeed, the Prophet (peace be upon him) also made up prayers he missed due to battle at a later time (Bukhari, Jihad, 98 [2931]).

Source: T.C. Diyanet İşleri Başkanlığı, Din İşleri Yüksek Kurulu