The Festival of Sacrifice – What Eid Al Adha means to Muslims
Curious about Eid Al Adha in Dubai? This major Islamic holiday is just around the corner, and the UAE is already full of festive energy. Celebrated by Muslims worldwide, it holds profound spiritual significance. If you’re new to the UAE, you might be wondering about the meaning of Eid Al Adha and how it’s observed. This guide sheds light on both, offering a glimpse into this meaningful occasion.
WHAT EID MEANS TO MUSLIMS
Also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, Eid Al Adha is a popular UAE public holiday. On this day, Muslims worldwide observe a shared celebration. But before we get into the details, here’s a little history of Eid Al Adha.
To understand the meaning of Eid Al-Adha for Muslims, you must understand the reason behind its celebration. This festival commemorates the historical event when Prophet Ibrahim (PBUH) was willing to sacrifice his son to prove his faith in Allah. Eid Al Adha is celebrated for three days, starting from the 10th until the 12th of Zul Hijjah, the last month in the Islamic Lunar calendar.
At its core, the Eid Al Adha celebration is honoured by Muslims as a day of remembrance of the consent to submit to Allah’s will. It’s celebrated the same way across the world — Muslims sacrifice animals in commemoration of Prophet Ibrahim’s consent to sacrifice his son by following his Lord’s commands. This is the history of Eid Al Adha.
In most Muslim countries, the Eid Al Adha holiday is celebrated by preparing various dishes, visiting friends or relatives and exchanging Eid Mubarak wishes and greetings.
THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT EID AL ADHA PRAYERS
On the first day of Eid, devotees prepare themselves by:
- Performing ablution and offering Fajr – the first of the five obligatory daily prayers.
- Taking extra care of cleanliness.
- Dressing up and wearing new clothing.
Following the regular morning (fajr) prayer, a special Eid prayer is obligatory for Muslim men and women. This is performed in congregation in an open-air enclosure reserved for Eid prayers or mosques. However, you can also perform the Eid prayer at home.
ANIMAL SACRIFICE
After Eid Al Adha prayers are over, Muslims perform an Eid Al Adha sacrifice, which typically involves sacrificing a cow, goat, camel, sheep or buffalo. According to Islamic rules, every financially able adult is expected to perform a sacrifice during this occasion. The animal can be either male or female; however, those conducting the sacrifice must adhere to specific rules.
Remember that the sacrificial animal must be:
- Above a certain age (varies for different animals)
- Free from disability
- In good health
Many people use Qurbani services in Dubai to complete this religious duty.
After the sacrifice, devotees divide the meat into three parts. Families keep one share, another part is distributed amongst close relatives and the remaining is given to those less fortunate.
Charitable donations are a big part of the spirit of Eid Al Adha. When we ask what Eid Al Adha means to Muslims, we can look at all the donation drives carried out during this period.
FAQS ABOUT THE MEANING OF EID AL ADHA
WHEN IS EID AL ADHA CELEBRATED ACROSS THE WORLD?
The observance of Eid Al Adha varies across the globe, since it is subject to the moon’s appearance. Local authorities start the process of moon sightings on the 29th of Dhu al-Qi’dah.
WHEN IS EID AL ADHA IN THE UAE THIS YEAR?
According to religious authorities in the UAE, Eid Al Adha holidays for 2025 will start on Thursday, June 5 and end on Sunday, June 8.
WHAT IS THE IMPORTANCE OF EID AL-ADHA IN ISLAM?
Eid Al-Adha spiritual meaning centres on faith, sacrifice and obedience to God. It marks Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son as an act of devotion. For Muslims, it’s a time to reflect, pray and share blessings with others.
WHAT ARE EID AL ADHA 2025 PRAYER TIMINGS IN THE UAE?
Eid al-Adha prayer times in the UAE can vary slightly by location. This is because the exact timing depends on when sunrise occurs, which differs across cities. Additionally, some communities may base timings on astronomical calculations, while others follow local moon sightings.
Generally, you can expect the Eid al-Adha prayer to take place around 15–20 minutes after sunrise.
ARE THERE OTHER WAYS TO CELEBRATE EID AL ADHA IN THE UAE?
There are various Eid Al Adha activities you can participate in, including visiting malls, enjoying fireworks, attending concerts and more! If you are in the capital city, here’s a list of things to do in Abu Dhabi during Eid Al Adha 2025.
ARE THERE ANY STAYCATION DEALS FOR EID AL ADHA?
One great way to enjoy Eid Al Adha is with a staycation. Check out our review of the best Eid al Adha staycation deals in the UAE to help you decide.
That’s a wrap of things to know about Eid Al Adha. Until next time, Happy Eid al Adha! On this joyous occasion, don’t forget to try traditional Arabic sweets. From the delicate textures of baklava to the creamy richness of Umm Ali, Arabic desserts offer a truly unforgettable experience for any sweet tooth.
Similarly, you can enjoy Eid Al Adha activities in Dubai, including fireworks, staycations, shopping, etc. Additionally, cinephiles can choose their favourite from the top movies to watch this Eid Al Adha in Dubai, whether Hollywood or Bollywood.
