Riyadh: Saudi Arabia is celebrating Eidul Azha today (Friday), marking the second of the two major Islamic festivals observed by Muslims worldwide. The occasion commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to Allah, a moment that was divinely replaced with a ram.
The Eid prayers were held early in the morning across the Kingdom, with tens of thousands of worshippers gathering in mosques and open grounds, including the Grand Mosque in Makkah and the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah. Special arrangements were made for pilgrims, many of whom are performing Hajj and have reached the plains of Mina for the ritual of animal sacrifice.
The day also marks the third day of the annual Hajj pilgrimage. More than 1.8 million pilgrims from around the world are participating this year, according to Saudi authorities. Following the standing at Arafat and the symbolic stoning of the devil at Jamarat, the pilgrims now continue with the animal sacrifice, an essential rite of Hajj and Eidul Azha.
Saudi authorities have enforced strict measures to ensure smooth and safe celebrations. Health and security personnel have been deployed in large numbers, especially in the holy sites, to assist pilgrims and manage the vast crowds.
Eidul Azha, also known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” involves the ritual slaughter of animals such as goats, sheep, cows, or camels. The meat is divided into three parts: one-third for the family, one-third for relatives and friends, and one-third for the poor and needy.
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman extended Eid greetings to citizens, residents, and Muslims worldwide, emphasizing the values of unity, compassion, and faith.
Meanwhile, other countries including Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and Indonesia will celebrate Eidul Azha on Saturday, June 7, following the lunar calendar and local moon sightings.
Festivities in the Kingdom are expected to continue over the next three days, with families coming together to offer sacrifices, share meals, and engage in acts of charity in the spirit of Eid.
