The Ministry of Public Service and Labour has declared that Wednesday, May 27, 2026, will be a public holiday in celebration of Eid al‑Adha.
In its statement released on May 25, 2026, the Ministry informed all employers and employees in both public and private sectors that the day would be observed nationwide.
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Significance of Eid al‑Adha
Eid al‑Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, commemorates the time when Abraham was prepared to sacrifice his son Ishmael, but God provided a ram instead.
It is celebrated during the month of Dhul Hijjah, the twelfth and final month of the Islamic calendar. The holiday coincides with the beginning of the Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, which lasts for five days.
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Religious Practices and Traditions
Eid al‑Adha is the second most celebrated holiday in Islam after Eid al‑Fitr. The day begins with early morning prayers at sunrise, bringing together large gatherings of worshippers. Muslims then perform the ritual slaughter of animals such as sheep, goats, cows, or camels, in fulfilment of the pillar of sacrifice.
The meat is shared among family, friends, and especially the poor, ensuring that everyone partakes in the celebration. Islamic law stipulates that only mature animals are eligible: goats must be at least one year old, sheep six months, cows two years, and camels five years.
Acts of Kindness and Community Spirit
Beyond prayer and sacrifice, Eid al‑Adha emphasises acts of kindness, charity, and reconciliation. Families and friends exchange good wishes, visit one another, resolve conflicts, and share meals.
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Traditional dishes include sheep, beef, and goat meat, with portions distributed to the needy. The celebration highlights unity, compassion, and the importance of helping others, reinforcing the values at the heart of the Islamic faith.
