Eid celebrated with prayers, traditional greetings

The UAE celebrates Eid Al Adha today with religious solemnity, and the day's celebration begins early in the morning with prayers in various locations where members of the Ruling Families, along with the public, will offer prayers at Eid mussalahs nationwide. Eid Al Adha, one of the most significant occasions in Islam, comes a day after the Haj (pilgrimage).

The day's prayer is followed by sacrificing of sheep, goat or cows, as a mark of respect to prophet Ibrahim. This marks the second largest festival in Islam, after Eid Al Fitr. Muslims pay visits to their relatives, especially the elderly, neighbours and friends, and exchange greetings.

This year's Eid Al Adha comes during the Dubai Shopping Festival, which has created a festive atmosphere in the city. However, members of all communities are expected to take this opportunity to enjoy the entertainment programmes.

The biggest crowd is expected at the Global Village, Al Riqqa Street and its adjoining Murraqabat Street, and Al Diyafah Street, where families will gather to enjoy the rides, taste traditional food and dine out. Municipalities in all seven emirates have made special arrangements to sacrifice animals at the abattoirs.