Eid Al Adha in UAE: Unique Festive Highlights Belong to The Emirates

UAE Eid Al Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is one of the most significant and celebrated Islamic holidays in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This joyous occasion holds deep religious and cultural importance for the people of the UAE, reflecting the country's rich Islamic heritage and diverse traditions. 

If you are curious about this special event in the UAE, you've come to the right place, as the UAE Immigration Services will provide you with helpful information about Eid Al Adha in UAE in the article below. Keep reading to see how Eid Al Adha is celebrated in the UAE and what makes this occasion special.

The History Of Eid Al Adha

Eid Al Adha is celebrated by Muslims worldwide to commemorate the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son, Isma'il (Ishmael), as an act of obedience to God's command. According to Islamic tradition, God intervened and provided a ram as a substitute for the sacrifice, signifying the importance of faith and obedience.

The history of Eid Al Adha in Dubai commences from a dream of the Prophet Ibrahim. On a fateful night, Ibrahim dreamed that God Almighty appeared before him, in which God commanded Ibrahim to make the ultimate sacrifice - his beloved son, Ismail, as an act of unwavering obedience and submission. 

To demonstrate his steadfast devotion to God, Ibrahim led Ismail to the summit of Mount Arafah, fully prepared to carry out the divine command. However, just as he was about to perform the sacrifice, the Angel Jibreel (Gabriel) intervened, bringing a ram as a substitute for Ismail. Jibril conveyed that Ibrahim's faith had been vindicated, and the ram was to be sacrificed as a ransom for his son. This profound display of obedience, devotion, and submission by Ibrahim became the cornerstone of Eid Al Adha, a day when Muslims worldwide honor the spirit of sacrifice and reaffirm their faith in God. In the UAE, this historical event is commemorated with deep reverence and remains an integral part of the country's rich tradition.

Eid Al Adha is celebrated by Muslims in the UAE

Time to celebrate Eid Adha

Eid Al Adha in Dubai is often celebrated on the tenth day of the final month of the Muslim lunar calendar. As the lunar calendar is approximately 11 days behind the Gregorian calendar, the exact date of this significant festival varies annually, typically around 70 days after Ramadan. Eid Al Adha spans five days, coinciding with the last three days of the sacred Hajj pilgrimage. During these days, the UAE's streets come alive with vibrant traditions, heartfelt prayers, and acts of generosity as families and communities come together to commemorate the essence of faith and sacrifice.

How Is Eid Al Adha In UAE Celebrated?

Preparation

In the weeks leading up to Eid Al Adha, the UAE is abuzz with activity as families prepare for the festivities. The anticipation is palpable as homes are cleaned, new clothes are bought, and delicious traditional dishes are planned. However, before the grand feast, many Muslims observe the practice of fasting during the first nine days of Dhu al-Hijjah. These fasts are seen as a way to purify the soul and seek God's forgiveness.

Cities such as Dubai become alive than ever during this festive season, with vibrant illuminations adorning the skyline. Shopping malls and cinemas don festive banners, enticing visitors with substantial discounts for Eid. The streets are crowded with communal celebrations as people of all backgrounds join the festivities. Shops, boutiques, and traditional markets eagerly dress up, anticipating the influx of shoppers seeking gifts to exchange on this special occasion.

The Prayers during Eid Al Adha

On the morning of Eid Al Adha in UAE, Muslims gather at mosques across the country for a special prayer known as Salat al-Eid. The largest and most prominent gathering takes place at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, where thousands of worshippers come together to mark the occasion.

The prayer is followed by a sermon delivered by the Imam, who addresses the congregation on the significance of Eid Al Adha and its lessons. The sermon often emphasizes the importance of faith, sacrifice, and charitable acts, encouraging Muslims to reflect on their actions and seek ways to contribute to the well-being of the community.

The Eid Al Adha is featured by the prayers at mosques across the UAE

Celebrating Eid Al Adha in the UAE

One of the central rituals of Eid Al Adha is the sacrifice of an animal, usually a sheep, goat, cow, or camel. This act symbolizes the willingness to give up something valuable for the sake of God. In the UAE, this practice is carried out with great reverence and respect for the animal's life. Licensed slaughterhouses and skilled butchers ensure that the process is conducted in a humane and Islamic manner.

After the sacrifice, the meat is divided into three parts. One-third is given to those in need, ensuring that the less fortunate can also partake in the celebrations. Another third is shared with friends and family, strengthening social bonds and fostering a sense of community. The remaining third is retained for personal consumption or shared with neighbors and acquaintances.

Eid Al Adha is synonymous with feasting, and the UAE is no exception. Traditional dishes such as quzi, chicken machboos, luqaimat, and lamb stew take center stage on the dining table. Families and friends come together to share sumptuous meals and exchange gifts. It's a time of warmth, hospitality, and joyous gatherings, where the rich heritage of the UAE is reflected in the culinary delights.

Muslims do charity and help less fortunate people during Eid Al Adha

Tips for Foreign Travelers Visiting during Eid Al Adha in UAE

Common Wishes and Greetings during Eid

If you travel to the UAE on the occasion of Eid Al Adha, it is advisable to learn some common wishes that Muslims often use during this special event. This is a way to show your interest in UAE Eid Al Adha - the local community and its traditions, ensuring a comfortable experience in a new land.

1. Eid Mubarak - Have a blessed Eid 

2. As-Salaam u Alaikum - May peace be unto you 

3. Kul’ am wa enta bi-khair - May every year find you in good health 

4. Eid Saeed - Happy Eid 

5. Taqabbala Allahu minna wa minkum - May Allah accept from us, and you

Helpful information should be noted for a memorable experience during Eid Al Adha

To fully enjoy Eid Al Adha in Dubai, it's essential to respect and adhere to certain cultural and religious customs. 

• Firstly, during fasting hours, refrain from eating, drinking, or smoking in public spaces, as this is not only a sign of respect for the local customs but also a way to avoid offending the religious sensibilities of the community. 

• Secondly, be mindful of your attire in public places; avoid clothing that reveals too much skin, such as shorts, mini-skirts, or sleeveless tops, as modesty is highly valued during Eid. 

• Thirdly, avoid public displays of affection, as such gestures are considered indecent during the festive season. 

• Lastly, embrace the spirit of giving and helping the needy by offering assistance to those less fortunate. You can contribute to the celebration by donating clothes, food, or funds to charitable organizations supporting the underprivileged and transcending religious differences to make Eid Al Adha a truly memorable and meaningful experience for all.

UAE Eid Al Adha is a celebration that beautifully combines faith, tradition, and community spirit. It’s time to get your “travel ticket to the UAE” and let yourself immerse in the festive atmosphere of the Eid Al Adha. With the convenience of a UAE visa online, you will travel to this captivating country easily and quickly.