As the joyous celebrations of Eid-ul-Fitr come to a close, Muslims around the world, including those in Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), are eagerly anticipating the next major Islamic holiday: Eid-ul-Adha. This significant festival, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is expected to be celebrated on June 6 and June 7, 2025, depending on local moon sightings.
Eid-ul-Adha is commemorated on the tenth day of Dhu al-Hijjah and honors the profound faith of Prophet Ibrahim, who was willing to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah’s command. The festival is marked by special prayers, the ritual of Qurbani (animal sacrifice), acts of charity, and family gatherings, all emphasizing themes of generosity and community.
In Pakistan, experts predict that Eid-ul-Adha will be celebrated on Saturday, June 7, 2025, with festivities extending through Monday, June 9, 2025. These dates are preliminary and based on lunar calculations; the final dates will be confirmed by local moon sightings. The anticipation among the youth, in particular, is palpable as they look forward to the celebrations.
Meanwhile, in the UAE, the Emirates Astronomy Society has projected that Eid-ul-Adha will likely occur on Friday, June 6, 2025. According to their calculations, the crescent moon marking the start of Dhu al-Hijjah is expected to be visible on the evening of May 27, which means May 28 will be the first day of the Islamic month. Ibrahim Al Jarwan, Chairman of the Emirates Astronomy Society, confirmed that the moon is anticipated to appear at 7:02 AM UAE time and remain visible for about 38 minutes after sunset, enhancing the likelihood of its sighting.
If confirmed, the holiday in the UAE will span four days, from Thursday, June 5, to Sunday, June 8, 2025. This includes Arafat Day, which is observed on June 5. UAE residents are looking forward to an extended weekend, with Thursday and Friday designated as official holidays, followed by the regular weekend on Saturday and Sunday.
As Eid-ul-Adha approaches, it is essential to acknowledge its cultural significance. The festival is not just a time for celebration but also a moment for spiritual reflection and community bonding. It involves special prayers known as Eid Salah, the ritual of Qurbani, and acts of charity, often shared with those in need. Families gather to enjoy traditional meals and participate in community celebrations, reinforcing the values of faith and compassion.
However, the festive season also brings challenges. In Dubai, police have recently announced the arrest of 222 beggars during Ramadan and Eid-ul-Fitr, highlighting a concerning trend where individuals exploit the charitable spirit of these holidays. The 'Fight Begging' campaign, a collaborative effort among various authorities, aims to combat this issue by raising public awareness and urging citizens to donate only through official channels to ensure that aid reaches those in genuine need. In the UAE, begging is considered a crime and is punishable by fines and imprisonment.
As the holiday draws near, residents are reminded to embrace the spirit of giving and community that defines Eid-ul-Adha. It is a time to reflect on the values of sacrifice and devotion, just as Prophet Ibrahim exemplified. Understanding the significance of this holiday helps to appreciate the rich cultural heritage and traditions that it represents.
For those looking forward to the festivities, it is advisable to stay updated on official announcements regarding the confirmed dates for Eid-ul-Adha. As always, the exact date may vary depending on local moon sightings, which can lead to slight differences in observance across different regions.
Overall, Eid-ul-Adha is a cornerstone of the Islamic calendar, bringing together families and communities in a shared celebration of faith, sacrifice, and generosity. As preparations begin, the excitement is palpable, and the spirit of the holiday is felt throughout the Muslim world.
