Eid Al Adha is one of the most significant Islamic festivals and holds a special place in the hearts of Muslims worldwide. In the UAE, this occasion is celebrated with deep religious devotion, social events, and a charitable spirit. As Eid Al Adha 2025 approaches, residents and visitors alike eagerly prepare to celebrate this sacred festival. Whether you’re living in the Emirates or planning a visit, understanding the meaning behind the festival and how it’s celebrated locally can make your experience even more memorable.
In this blog, Miva Real Estate shares an insightful guide on Eid Al Adha 2025, including its significance, expected dates, traditional celebrations and useful tips for visitors.
What is Eid Al Adha?
Eid Al Adha is a special holiday called the “Festival of Sacrifice.” It remembers the strong faith and obedience of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham). In Islamic tradition, God asked Ibrahim in a dream to sacrifice his son, Ismail (Ishmael) to show his trust. Ibrahim was ready to do it, but God stopped him and gave a ram to sacrifice instead. This story teaches us about charity, sacrifice and faith, which are important parts of Eid Al Adha.
The event takes place on the tenth day of Dhu Al-Hijjah, the final month of the Islamic lunar calendar. It comes after the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca. On this day, Muslims pray together, think about God, and help people in need. One important tradition is called Qurbani, where an animal is sacrificed to remember Ibrahim’s obedience.
The meat from the sacrifice is shared in three portions—one to loved ones, one to friends and relatives and one to those in need. This sharing brings the community together and shows generosity. People greet each other with “Eid Al Adha Mubarak,” spreading happiness and unity everywhere.
In the UAE, Eid Al Adha holds both spiritual and cultural significance. It brings families and communities together, strengthening social bonds and reflecting the core Islamic values of generosity and gratitude.
Eid Al Adha 2025 Expected Dates in UAE
If you’re wondering “when is Eid Al Adha 2025?”, the answer is determined by the viewing of the crescent moon, as the Islamic calendar uses the lunar Hijri system. However, official announcements are made by the UAE’s Moon-Sighting Committee. For Eid Al Adha 2025 –
- Arafat Day – Thursday, June 5, 2025
- Eid Al Adha – Friday, June 6, 2025, to Sunday, June 8, 2025
The UAE has officially declared a four-day public holiday for both public and private sector employees, running from June 5 to June 8, 2025, giving residents a long weekend to celebrate and spend quality time with their families.
How Eid Al Adha is Celebrated in The UAE
During Eid Al Adha, the UAE comes alive with a diverse range of traditions and activities. The celebrations are a beautiful mix of religious devotion, cultural rituals and contemporary entertainment.
1. Eid Al Adha Prayer
The day of Eid Al Adha begins with special eid prayers held in mosques or wide public spaces across the emirates. The prayer is a deep spiritual moment and is followed by a sermon. For example, in Dubai, the prayer usually starts around 5:45 AM. Since Eid Al Adha 2025 falls on a Friday, the UAE Fatwa Council has announced that the Eid prayer and the usual Friday prayer would be performed individually, with their respective sermons.
2. The Sacrifice (Qurbani)
A central ritual of Eid Al Adha is the Qurbani, or sacrifice of animals like sheep, goats, or camels. This act honors Prophet Ibrahim’s obedience to God. The meat is further shared in between three parts. Many people use authorized places or charity groups in the UAE to handle the sacrifice and share the meat safely. This emphasis on giving is a key component of the Eid Al Adha mubarak values to encourage empathy and community support.
3. Family Gatherings and Feasts
Eid Al Adha is a time for families to come together. Residents prepare their homes for visitors by cleaning and decorating them. They prepare large meals with traditional Emirati food and other regional dishes. Guests enjoy special sweets, dates, coffee and tea. It’s an amazing chance to talk, share memories and just relax with loved ones. Children wear new clothes and often get ‘Eidiya,’ which are money gifts from elders. This makes the day even more exciting for them.
4. Exchanging Greetings
The air is filled with Eid Al Adha Mubarak greetings, with everyone wishing each other blessings. People visit relatives, friends, and neighbors, expressing goodwill and sharing the joy of the occasion. It is an occasion to promote peace and forgiveness in the community.
5. Cultural and Entertainment Events
Beyond the religious observances, the UAE transforms into a hub of entertainment during the Eid Al Adha holidays Dubai. Shopping malls, cultural centers and various landmarks hold special events like traditional shows, live music, and firework displays. Dubai, in particular, is known for its dazzling fireworks at places like Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Festival City and La Mer.
6. Acts of Charity
Charity is very important during Eid Al Adha. Besides sharing meat, Muslims are taught to provide donations for anyone in need. This encourages the giving mindset and ensures that everyone, regardless of their circumstances can share in the joy of the holiday.
Additional Tips for Visitors
If you’re visiting the UAE during Eid Al Adha 2025, here are a few tips to enhance your experience:
- Respect Local Customs – While the UAE is a tolerant and welcoming nation, it’s always advisable to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or participating in local gatherings.
- Plan Ahead – As it is a public holiday, popular attractions, restaurants, and transportation might be busier than usual. It’s wise to book tickets, make reservations, and plan your travel in advance.
- Explore Cultural Experiences – This is an excellent time to explore Emirati culture. Visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, the Al Fahidi Historical District in Dubai, or participate in a guided cultural tour.
- Check Prayer Times – If you plan to attend the Eid Al Adha prayer, be sure to verify the exact Eid Al Adha prayer time for your specific location in advance, as timings can vary slightly across emirates.
- Take Advantage of Holiday Sales – Malls in Dubai go all out with Eid Al Adha sales. Whether you are into luxury brands, electronics, or fashion, expect major discounts and promotions during this time.
Celebrate Eid Al Adha with Miva Real Estate
At Miva Real Estate, we understand that holidays like Eid Al Adha are not just about celebration — they’re about community, values, and feeling at home. Whether you’re looking for a new residence, an investment opportunity, or simply want to experience the UAE’s culture to the fullest, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
If you are planning to move or invest in the UAE this festive season, Eid Al Adha 2025 could be the perfect time. With Eid Al Adha holidays in Dubai, you have more time to explore neighborhoods, attend open houses, and experience first-hand what it’s like to live in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.
Let Miva Real Estate help you find a home where your family can build memories and celebrate future Eids together.
Also Read: Eid Al Fitr Holiday in The UAE
