Performing Eid Al Adha prayers is a significant act of worship. This guide provides simple, step-by-step instructions and cultural context for expats and residents in Dubai to participate respectfully and correctly.

Key Takeaways

Understand the significance of Eid Al Adha.
Learn the correct timing for Eid prayers.
Follow the steps for congregational prayer.
Practice the accompanying takbeerat.
Know the etiquette for attending prayers.

| Event | Approximate Time (Dhu Al Hijjah 10th) | Notes |
| :———————— | :———————————— | :———————————————————————————————————————————— |
| Sunrise | Varies daily | Check local Dubai timings for the specific day. |
| Eid Prayer Start | ~20 minutes after sunrise | Recommended to arrive a bit earlier to secure a good spot. |
| Prayer Time Ends (Midday) | Before Dhuhr (noon) prayer time | It is permissible to pray until zawal (when the sun is at its highest point). |
| Sacrifice (Qurbani) | After Eid prayer | It is recommended to perform the sacrifice after the Eid prayer. |
| Eid Al Adha Feast | Throughout the day | Celebrations and family gatherings occur after the main religious observances. |

It is highly recommended to perform ghusl (a full ritual bath) before attending Eid prayers. This is an act of purification and shows reverence for the occasion.

Engage in supplications (du’a) and remembrance of Allah (dhikr) before leaving for the prayer. This can be done at home.

Eid Al Adha prayer is different from the daily prayers. It is performed in congregation and comprises two rak’ahs (units of prayer) with additional takbeerat (exclamations of “Allahu Akbar” – Allah is the Greatest).

Many Muslims in Dubai head to large open grounds (musallahs) or their local mosques for the Eid prayer. It’s customary to walk to the prayer place if possible, and to take different routes when going and returning, as per the Sunnah. This allows one to greet more people and spread the blessings. You will see many families and individuals heading to major prayer sites like the Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum Mosque or other designated Eid grounds across Dubai.

Before the prayer begins, the Imam (prayer leader) will lead the congregation in reciting the Takbeerat al-Tashreeq. These are recited multiple times before and after the prayer.

The prayer itself consists of two rak’ahs.

1. Intention (Niyyah): Make the intention in your heart to pray the Eid Al Adha prayer.
2. Opening Takbeer (Takbeerat al-Ihram): The Imam will say “Allahu Akbar” and raise his hands to his ears. You should also raise your hands to your ears and say “Allahu Akbar.” This signifies the start of the prayer.
3. Recitation: The Imam will recite Surah Al Fatihah and another chapter or verses from the Quran. You should listen attentively.
4. Additional Takbeerat: After the recitation, the Imam will say “Allahu Akbar” three more times, raising his hands each time. You should follow suit. After the third takbeer, the Imam will bow into Ruku’ (bowing).
5. Ruku’: Bow down in Ruku’ and say “Subhana Rabbiyal Adheem” (Glory be to my Lord, the Most Magnificent) three times.
6. Rising from Ruku’: When the Imam rises from Ruku’ saying “Sami’Allahu liman hamidah” (Allah hears those who praise Him), you should also rise and say “Rabbana walakal Hamd” (Our Lord, and to You is all praise).
7. Prostration (Sujud): The Imam will then lead you into Sujud (prostration). Prostrate and say “Subhana Rabbiyal A’laa” (Glory be to my Lord, the Most High) three times.
8. Sitting between Prostrations: Rise from Sujud and sit briefly.
9. Second Prostration: Perform the second Sujud.

1. Standing Up: Rise from the second Sujud to begin the second rak’ah.
2. Recitation: The Imam will recite Surah Al Fatihah and another chapter from the Quran. Listen attentively.
3. Additional Takbeerat: After the recitation, the Imam will say “Allahu Akbar” five times, raising his hands each time. You should follow suit.
4. Ruku’: After the fifth takbeer, the Imam will bow into Ruku’. You should also bow.
5. Rising from Ruku’: Rise from Ruku’.
6. Prostration (Sujud): The Imam will lead you into two Sujuds.
7. Sitting for Tashahhud: After the second Sujud, sit for Tashahhud (the final sitting).

1. Tashahhud: Recite the Tashahhud in a sitting posture. This is a declaration of faith and supplication.
2. Salawat: Recite the Salawat (blessings upon the Prophet Muhammad PBUH).
3. Du’a: You can make personal supplications (du’a) in your own words.
4. Tasleem: The prayer concludes with Tasleem, where the Imam turns his head to the right and says “Assalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullah” (Peace and blessings of Allah be upon you), and then to the left, repeating the same. You should follow the Imam in this.

After the Tasleem, the Imam will again lead the congregation in reciting the Takbeerat al-Tashreeq. These are often recited once more after the prayer, reminding everyone of Allah’s greatness and the spirit of Eid.

After the prayer, the Imam typically delivers a Khutbah (a sermon). This sermon usually focuses on the significance of Eid Al Adha, the lessons from Prophet Ibrahim’s story, the importance of sacrifice, charity, family ties, and community harmony. Listening to the Khutbah is an integral part of the Eid prayer observance.

The act of sacrificing an animal (qurbani or udhiyah) is a central ritual of Eid Al Adha. This is ideally performed after the Eid prayer. The meat is traditionally divided into three parts: one for the family, one for relatives and friends, and one for the poor and needy. Many residents in Dubai arrange their sacrifices through official channels or charities that handle the process ethically and distribute the meat accordingly, ensuring that the spirit of giving is upheld.

Arrive at the prayer location early to find a good spot, pray any available Sunnah prayers (though there are no specific Sunnah prayers before the Eid prayer, only after), and listen to the Takbeerat.

While the Takbeerat are recited loudly, maintain a respectful demeanor otherwise.

Transportation: Public transport in Dubai, including the Dubai Metro and buses, can be very crowded on Eid day. Plan your travel well in advance and consider ride-sharing services or taxis, though expect potential delays. Many mosques are well-served by public transport.
Mosque Etiquette: Be aware of the specific dress codes for mosques in Dubai. While generally modest, some stricter mosques might have more specific requirements.
Community Events: Look out for community events organized by various cultural groups and by Dubai Municipality. These often offer opportunities to experience the spirit of Eid.
Respect Local Customs: While Dubai is a cosmopolitan city, remember that Eid Al Adha is a religious holiday. Be mindful of any restrictions or special timings that may be in place during the official prayer and sermon periods.

A1: The Eid prayer is considered a Wajib or Sunnah Mu’akkadah (highly recommended practice) for adult Muslims who are able to attend. It is not considered obligatory in the same way as the five daily prayers, but is strongly encouraged.

A3: There are no specific Sunnah prayers to be offered before the Eid Al Adha prayer. However, it is recommended to pray two rak’ahs after the Eid prayer, similar to the Sunnah after the Eid Al Fitr prayer, especially if praying in a mosque that does not have a regular prayer schedule.

A4: If you miss the Eid Al Adha prayer with the congregation, you can pray two rak’ahs individually. Some scholars also suggest praying four rak’ahs* in the manner of the Dhuhr (noon) prayer. It’s advisable to seek guidance from a local scholar for specific situations.

Q5: How is the sacrifice (Qurbani) done in Dubai?

A5: In Dubai, many residents arrange their sacrifice through licensed vendors, butchers approved by Dubai Municipality, or designated charities. These services ensure the sacrifice is performed according to Islamic guidelines and often handle the distribution of meat to the needy. You can also find information on official Dubai government portals or through your local mosque.

Q6: Is it permissible to perform Eid prayer at home alone?

A6: While the Eid prayer is best performed in congregation, if one cannot attend due to valid reasons (like illness or travel), performing it individually is permissible. However, the community aspect is highly valued.

Q7: What is the role of Dubai Police during Eid Al Adha?

A7: Dubai Police play a vital role in ensuring public safety and smooth traffic flow during Eid Al Adha. They increase patrols, manage crowds at prayer sites and public gathering areas, and ensure that festivities are celebrated in a safe and orderly manner, befitting Dubai’s reputation for public security and efficient public service.

Conclusion

Performing your Eid Al Adha prayers is a rewarding experience that connects you to a global community and a profound spiritual tradition. By understanding the timing, preparation, steps involved, and the underlying significance, you can participate with confidence and devotion. Dubai’s inclusive environment allows residents and visitors to immerse themselves in such rich cultural and religious observances. May your Eid Al Adha be filled with peace, blessings, and a deep sense of community. Eid Mubarak!