Eid al-Adha 2025 in Dubai: Traditions, Prayer Timings & Celebrations
No sooner do the festivities of Eid-ul-Fitr end than hearts start to yearn for the second Eid of the year. Yes, every year this happens with Eid al-Adha.
Just a little over two months apart, Eid al-Adha is one of the two most significant festivals for Muslims around the globe. But when it comes to Dubai, the “Festival of Sacrifice” meets a different level of vibrancy and zeal.
In addition to those celebrating, the entire country looks forward to a long public holiday across the Emirate. It is a 4-day festival that begins on the day of Arafat (9th day of the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah), followed by Eid al-Adha on the 10th, 11th, and 12th.
Whether you’re planning a grand feast, qurbani, or want to send Eid al-Adha gifts online to loved ones in Dubai, the excitement is already in the air.
Eid al-Adha is all set to be on Friday, June 6. So, with much ado, let’s get into knowing everything about the celebration, from prayer timings, qurbani rituals, and various activities held across the country.
Eid al-Adha Prayer Timings in Dubai (2025)
Mosques conduct a special Eid al-Adha prayer in congregation on the first day of Eid (i.e., 10th of Dhul-Hijjah). It is a delightful sight when Dubai mosques are filled with thousands of attendees.
People begin their day with an early morning prayer. It is usually for 15-20 minutes after sunrise. In Dubai, the time would commence from 5:45 am. However, you must note that every mosque will have a different timing.
Traditional Eid al-Adha Customs in Dubai
Eid al-Adha is an honor to the devotion of Prophet Ibrahim (Peace be upon him). It was his willingness to sacrifice his son in order to serve and obey Almighty Allah.
The moment Prophet Ibrahim was about to sacrifice, God replaced his son with a ram. Thus, it was only a test, and he was rewarded with mercy for his faith. This is why Muslims across the world perform Qurbani (sacrifice). Besides commemorating, qurbani has deeper spiritual symbolism. The Qur’an says in Surah Al-Hajj (22:37):
“It is neither their meat nor their blood that reaches Allah, but it is your piety that reaches Him.”
Thus, the verse shows that real value lies in intention (niyyah) and taqwa (God-consciousness).
So, maintaining the true spirit of the festival, here’s how the traditional Eid al-Adha customs are observed within the Emirates:
Morning Prayer and Sermon:
The day begins with prayers in mosques or large prayer grounds. The sound of takbeer (praises to Allah) echoes and creates a pleasing spiritual environment. The prayer is followed by the imam delivering the sermons on the values of faith, generosity, and gratitude.
Qurbani (Ritual Sacrifice):
It carries the core values of the occasion— mercy, faith, and devotion to God. People in Dubai arrange animals like lambs or goats mostly through licensed slaughterhouses. The meat is distributed among relatives and the needy.
Family Gatherings and Meals:
It is a festival that brings families together for a hearty gathering and festive meals. The Emiratis indulge in traditional feasts like Ouzi, Machboos, and Luqaimat.
Charity:
Charity is central to the occasion of Eid Al Adha. Individuals in Dubai offer meat to the poor or contribute through charities and organizations. They distribute other items as well, including clothes, food, or financial aid.
Where & How to Perform Qurbani in Dubai
In Dubai, people opt for Qurbani services compliant with Shariah. In 2025, the government has also been encouraging online platforms for Qurbani arrangements to avoid overcrowding in the slaughterhouses.
Be it through a slaughterhouse or an app, here is what you need to keep in mind.
Before Qurbani, you must make an intention for yourself or on behalf of others. It is to be performed from 10th to 12th Dhul Hijjah.
The meat is usually delivered to your home, or you can choose to have it donated directly to the poor. It is a must to understand that the meat is to be divided into 3 parts: 1/3 for family, 1/3 for relatives/friends and 1/3 for the needy. Some services offer delivery of your share of the Qurbani meat. You can select options such as full delivery (all 3 portions to you) or partial delivery (you receive 1/3 or 2/3, the rest is donated).
Celebrating Eid al-Adha in Dubai: Events, Activities & Attractions
The festival brings a golden opportunity for the people of Dubai. They experience festivities. You can go to events and activities like:
Public Events:
Dubai hosts a plethora of events like live performances, cultural shows, and traditional music. These events are expected to take place at entertainment avenues or shopping malls.
Fireworks:
There is nothing like the Dubai fireworks. You can witness the best ones on Eid al-Adha. The city will organize fireworks shows at major landmarks like Bluewaters Island, Burj Khalifa, or Dubai Festival City.
Eid Shopping:
UAE shopping malls would be buzzing with people before the main day. Major malls like Ibn Batuta, Mall of Emirates, and the Dubai Mall offer a lot of Eid sales and offers. The closing hours are extended. What’s best? You can enjoy discounts of up to 75%.
So, get ready for the celebrations and have a nice time!
