What is Eid ul-Adha? Eid ul-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is one of the most important events that take place within the Islamic calendar. It is an occasion where Muslims from around the world come together to worship, pray, and reflect on the message behind the celebration, along with giving generously to their communities. As we approach Eid ul-Adha 2026, it’s important to understand the history of the event and why it’s so significant to Muslims to help you prepare for the holy day.
Understanding the reasons for why do we celebrate Eid ul-Adha helps Muslims reconnect with the values of faith, patience, and sacrifice, which all play a key part in Islam.
At Muslim Aid, we always aim to help you understand acts of worship and events so you can correctly observe them, which is why we want you to understand how Eid ul-Adha began. When we think of Eid ul-Adha, the initial thought that springs to mind is how festive it is, but have you ever stopped to wonder why is Eid ul-Adha celebrated? It all began with the Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his devotion to Allah.
Thousands of years ago, Prophet Ibrahim (AS), also known as Abraham and as Khalilullah (The friend of Allah), was living in what we now know as Iraq. He and his wife at the time (Sarah) were childless for several years, but later, by the will of Allah (SWT), he was blessed with a son (Ismail), after his second marriage to wife Hajar (Hagar).
Allah (SWT) had tested his faith through a dream he encountered one night. The dream commanded Ibrahim (AS) to sacrifice his beloved son, Ismail (AS), to show his love and devotion for Allah. Ibrahim (AS) had this dream for three consecutive nights, which is how he knew it was a command from Allah (SWT).
Allah (SWT) mentions this in The Holy Quran saying, "Then when (the son) reached the age to work with him, he said, 'O my son, indeed I have seen in a dream that I [must] sacrifice you. So see what you think.' He said, 'O my father, do as you are commanded. You will find me, if Allah wills, of the steadfast.'" [Quran 37:102]
One can only imagine how grand of a test this was for both father and son. Prophet Ibrahim (AS) was commanded to sacrifice the child he longed for, and Ismail (AS), being so young, accepted this command, showing immense faith by remaining steadfast. With this knowledge, they both set off to what Muslims believe was near Mina, a mountain located in Saudi Arabia. Ibrahim (AS) tied his son up and laid him down. As he prepared to carry out the sacrifice, he had a knife in his hands and a heart filled with sorrow, yet so much trust in his Lord. In that moment, something changed.
Allah called out to him with the following verses mentioned in the Quran "We called out to him, 'O Ibrahim! You have fulfilled the vision.' Indeed, We thus reward the doers of good. This was truly a revealing test. And We ransomed him with a great sacrifice." [Quran 37:104-107]
Instead of his son Ismail, Prophet Ibrahim (AS) found a ram in his place. This was a sign of acceptance, and the focus was not on the sacrifice itself but the submission to the will of Allah.
To this day, Muslims celebrate this event and get involved in the sacrifice of the animal in the name of Allah. This sacred act of sacrifice is what forms the heart of the Eid ul-Adha celebration across the world.
Eid ul-Adha 2026 is expected to begin on the evening of Wednesday, May 27, 2026, and end on the evening of Saturday, May 30, 2026. The exact date is dependent on the sighting of the moon in different parts of the world, as Islamic months follow the lunar calendar.
This sacred festival takes place on the 10th day of Dhul-Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic calendar, and coincides with the completion of Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Makkah. For those unable to perform Hajj, celebrating Eid ul-Adha at home or within their communities still carries immense spiritual significance.
The day typically begins with a morning congregational prayer, held in mosques and open fields. Before attending the prayer, it is Sunnah to recite the Takbir and wear one's finest clothes.
After the prayer, the central ritual of Qurbani (sacrifice) takes place. Muslims who are financially able offer the sacrifice of a livestock animal, usually a goat, sheep, cow, or camel, which is an act of obedience and remembrance of Ibrahim’s test. The meat is divided into three parts: one-third for the family, one-third for friends and neighbours, and one-third for those in need.
Many families also use this occasion to give Sadaqah (charity), visit relatives, and share meals. Children are often given gifts and new clothes, and communities come together in celebration. In essence, Eid ul-Adha strengthens bonds, both spiritual and social.
On this blessed occasion, Muslims are encouraged to increase their remembrance of Allah and make heartfelt supplications. A common dua for Eid ul-Adha includes:
"Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, La ilaha illallahu Wallahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar wa lillahil-hamd." This Takbir is recited starting from the Fajr of the 9th of Dhul-Hijjah until the Asr of the 13th, glorifying Allah and expressing gratitude for His mercy and blessings.
In addition to the Takbir, Muslims also make personal duas, asking for forgiveness, guidance, and peace for themselves and the entire Ummah.
So, why do we celebrate Eid ul-Adha? The day of Eid ul-Adha is more than just a tradition; it’s a confirmation of faith. The celebration reminds us of the values of trust in Allah, sacrifice for a greater cause, and the importance of sharing our blessings with those who are less fortunate.
For many, it’s also an opportunity to revive the Prophetic tradition of caring for the poor. The meat from Qurbani helps to feed millions of hungry people around the world. This act of kindness not only fulfils a religious duty but also uplifts entire communities.
Muslim Aid has been at the forefront of this mission, delivering Qurbani meat to those in desperate need across the globe. With your support, we can continue spreading hope, one sacrifice at a time.
Celebrate the spirit of Eid ul-Adha by giving your Qurbani with Muslim Aid. Together, we can bring smiles to families who need it most.
As we approach Eid ul-Adha 2026, let us prepare to reflect on the values of this day and think of those in need by donating your Qurbani and giving charity. Whether it’s through Qurbani, Dua, or acts of kindness, may this Eid be a source of blessings, unity, and spiritual growth for all.
Eid Mubarak from all of us at Muslim Aid!
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