ISLAMABAD (PEN) : Muslims across the Gulf and Middle East came together on Friday to celebrate Eid Al Adha, marking the occasion with grand congregational prayers, the ritual sacrifice, and acts of charity and reflection.
From the pre-dawn hours, worshippers filled mosques and open prayer spaces in cities including Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Doha, Kuwait City, Amman, Istanbul, Baghdad, and Muscat. Eid Al Adha — the Festival of Sacrifice — honors the devotion of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), who was willing to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah’s command.
Massive Turnout at Islam’s Holiest Sites
In Saudi Arabia, millions participated in Eid congregations at the two holiest mosques — Masjid al-Haram in Makkah and Masjid an-Nabawi in Madinah. The gatherings followed the conclusion of Hajj’s central rituals, with over 1.6 million pilgrims having performed Wuquf-e-Arafah on Thursday.
Pilgrims spent the night under the open skies in Muzdalifah before proceeding to Mina for the symbolic stoning of the devil at Jamarat. The day also involved the sacrifice of animals and the shaving of heads, completing key rites of Hajj.
Special prayers offered during Hajj included calls for global harmony, with particular focus on the plight of Palestinians and peace across conflict-affected regions.
Festivities in the UAE and Beyond
In the United Arab Emirates, the atmosphere was one of spiritual reverence and communal joy. At locations such as the Bur Dubai Eid Mosque, worshippers stood shoulder to shoulder in prayer, exchanging greetings and embracing the values of generosity, family, and compassion.
Similar scenes unfolded in Qatar, Kuwait, Turkey, Syria, Jordan, Iraq, and Oman, as well as in Muslim communities around the world — including the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, and Australia.
Eid Observed by Pakistan’s Bohra Community
In Pakistan, members of the Bohra community celebrated Eid ul Adha on Friday as well. Special prayers were held in Bohra mosques across Karachi, including Saddar, Hyderi, Pakistan Chowk, and Baloch Colony.
Following the prayers, traditional Qurbani rituals were performed, with livestock such as goats, sheep, and camels sacrificed. The meat was distributed among family members, friends, and the underprivileged — reflecting the central Islamic principles of charity and empathy.
A Time of Faith, Sacrifice, and Unity
As Eid ul Adha celebrations continue through the weekend, Muslims worldwide are engaging in moments of personal reflection, communal solidarity, and renewed commitment to their faith. The festival serves not only as a religious obligation but also as a reminder of compassion, selflessness, and gratitude.
With prayers echoing across continents and millions united in faith, Eid Al Adha once again stands as a powerful symbol of unity among Muslims globally.
