عيد الأضحى في 🇸🇦 المملكة العربية السعودية

Eid al-Adha in Saudi Arabia, known as Eid al-Kabir or the Greater Eid, holds unique significance as it coincides with the Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca. The four-day celebration begins on the 10th of Dhul Hijjah, when over two million pilgrims from around the world perform the ritual sacrifice at Mina, while Muslims throughout the kingdom sacrifice sheep, goats, or camels in commemoration of Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son.

The day begins with the Eid prayer in mosques and open musallas across the kingdom, followed by the sacrifice, or udhiyah. The meat is divided into three parts: one-third for the family, one-third for relatives and neighbors, and one-third for the poor. Saudi Arabia operates massive abattoirs during Eid to handle the millions of animals sacrificed, with modern facilities ensuring hygienic processing and rapid distribution.

Families gather for feasts featuring the freshly sacrificed meat prepared as kabsa, mandi, or grilled on open fires. Ma'amoul cookies, dates, and Saudi coffee are served to guests. Children receive new clothes and Eidiyah, and families visit each other across the extended holiday.

For Saudi families with loved ones performing Hajj, the holiday carries special emotional weight. They follow the pilgrims' progress via television broadcasts and phone calls, sharing in the spiritual journey from afar. The Eid public holiday extends up to ten days for government employees, making it the longest vacation period in the Saudi calendar.

One of the two holiest Islamic festivals, commemorating Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son as commanded by God, marked by animal sacrifice, communal prayers, and sharing meat with the poor.