Eid al-Adha is the most significant celebration in the Islamic calendar. It is a time of deep faith, immense generosity, and community unity. Also known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” it honors the legacy of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and serves as a spiritual renewal for Muslims worldwide.
What is Eid al-Adha?
At its heart, this holiday is about absolute devotion to God. Eid al-Adha commemorates the trial of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), when Allah commanded him in a dream to sacrifice his beloved son. Both father and son showed complete submission to God’s will. Before the sacrifice could take place, Allah replaced the son with a ram, honoring their sincerity.
The Quranic Basis:
The story is preserved in the Holy Quran, where Prophet Ibrahim (AS) says to his son:
“O my dear son! I have seen in a dream that I must sacrifice you.” He replied, “O my dear father! Do as you are commanded. Allah willing, you will find me steadfast.”
(Surah As-Saaffat | 37:102)
When is Eid al-Adha observed?
The Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle, meaning dates shift about 11 days earlier each year.
For 2026: Eid al-Adha is expected to begin on Wednesday, May 27th, following the sighting of the new crescent moon.
How do Muslims Observe Eid al-Adha: Sunnah & Rituals
Following the example of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) adds immense reward to the day.
- Purification (Ghusl): It is highly recommended to perform a ritual bath and wear your best, cleanest clothes.
- The Eid Prayer: This is a congregational prayer held shortly after sunrise.
- The Travel Route: A beautiful tradition is to take one path to the prayer ground and return home using a different route.
“On the Day of Eid, the Prophet (PBUH) used to return after offering the Eid prayer through a way different from that by which he went.”
(Hadith | Sahih al-Bukhari)
4. Fasting until Prayer: Unlike Eid al-Fitr, for this Eid, the Sunnah is to delay eating until after the prayer has finished.
Understanding Qurbani (The Sacrifice)
Qurbani is the ritual sacrifice of a livestock animal (sheep, goat, cow, or camel). It is a physical act of worship that directly supports the poor.
The Purpose of Sacrifice:
The Quran says the ritual is about your intention, not the meat.
“Their meat will not reach Allah, nor will their blood, but what reaches Him is piety from you.”
(Surah Al-Haj | 22:37)
Sharing the Blessings:
The Prophet (PBUH) instructed that the sacrifice should benefit as many people as possible:
“Eat some, store some, and give some to charity.”
(Hadith | An-Nasa’i)
Hajj 2026 and the Connection
Eid al-Adha marks the climax of Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Makkah. In May 2026, millions will stand on the plains of Arafah (May 26th) in prayer. The following day, they celebrate Eid. This connection reminds us that whether we are in Makkah or at home, we are one global community united by the same faith and history.
The Quran explains the purpose of the moon’s phases for this very reason:
“They ask you [O Prophet] about the phases of the moon. Say, ‘They are a means for people to determine time and pilgrimage.'”
(Surah al-Baqarah | 2:189)
Dhul Hijjah 2026 Important Dates
Below is the calendar for the sacred month of Dhul Hijjah 1447 AH (May/June 2026). The most blessed days are highlighted.
- May 18: The first day of Dhul Hijjah, marking the beginning of the best 10 days.
- May 25: Hajj Begins (Yawm at-Tarwiyah).
- May 26: Day of Arafah (The peak of Hajj; highly recommended to fast for non-pilgrims).
- May 27: Eid al-Adha & Qurbani begin.
- May 28–30: Days of Tashriq (celebration and Qurbani continue).
Travel Gate USA: Your Partner in Makkah
For many, organizing a sacrifice in the Holy City of Makkah is the ultimate way to connect with this history.
Travel Gate USA is a company deeply rooted in Islamic tradition. For the past 32 years, they have provided reliable Eid Qurbani services in Makkah. They specialize in assisting Hajjis with their ritual sacrifices and helping those abroad ensure their Qurbani is performed in the most sacred land on earth, following the highest standards of Islamic welfare and tradition.
Book Your Qurbani for 2026 in Makkah for your Loved ones or for yourself.
