Eid Al Adha: Celebration of Faith, Unity, and Generosity

By Desmond Nleya, Daily Times
Next week Muslims across the world will commemorate one of the most significant occasions in the Islamic calendar — Eid Al Adha, also known as the “Festival of Sacrifice.”
This holy holiday brings together families, communities, and the nation in a celebration that is as spiritual as it is social especially those living in the UAE.
The background
Eid Al Adha finds its roots in the timeless story of the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham in Judeo-Christian traditions), who was commanded by Allah (God) to sacrifice his son Ismail (Ishmael) as a test of faith. As the narrative goes, just as Ibrahim was about to carry out the divine command, Allah intervened and provided a ram to be sacrificed instead. This profound act of obedience and devotion is honored annually by Muslims around the world through ritual sacrifice and prayers.
In the UAE, celebration of Eid Al Adha is the blend of deep religious tradition with the country’s multicultural, modern character.
The public holiday typically spans three to four days, during which government offices, schools, and many businesses close. This allows families to spend quality time together, attend prayers, and perform charitable acts — key components of the Eid ethos.
In the early morning hours of Eid, Muslims gather at mosques and open prayer grounds across the UAE for the Eid Salah (prayer). These congregational prayers are a powerful symbol of Islamic unity, bringing together Emiratis and expatriates from diverse national backgrounds in shared devotion.
A central ritual of Eid Al Adha is the Qurbani — the slaughtering of an animal such as a sheep, goat, or cow — in remembrance of Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son. In the UAE, strict hygiene and ethical guidelines are followed, with government-approved slaughterhouses ensuring the process adheres to Islamic and public health standards.
The meat from the sacrifice is distributed in three parts: one-third for the family, one-third for relatives and friends, and one-third for the poor and needy.
In the UAE, charitable organizations and mosques often organize large-scale distributions to ensure that no one is left behind during the celebrations.
Eid Al Adha is more than just a festival — it’s a reaffirmation of faith, empathy, and social responsibility.
Through community prayers, family gatherings, and acts of charity, Eid Al Adha plays a vital role in nurturing a strong, values-driven society. It encourages introspection and inspires individuals to extend kindness beyond their immediate circles, reinforcing the bonds that hold the nation together.
Eid Mubarak to all celebrating in the UAE and around the world. May this blessed occasion bring peace, joy, and unity to every heart and home.