Across the region, millions of Muslims gathered early in the morning to offer Eid prayers, as the air filled with spiritual joy and the sound of Takbeer (Allahu Akbar).
In Makkah’s Grand Mosque (Masjid al-Haram) and the Prophet’s Mosque (Masjid an-Nabawi) in Medina, massive congregations took place. Pilgrims from all over the world, as well as local worshippers, participated in these emotional and powerful prayer gatherings. The scene was breathtaking — with rows of worshippers, united in faith, standing shoulder to shoulder.
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During the Eid sermons, imams reminded the Muslim world of the importance of unity, sacrifice, and the historic story of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his son Prophet Ismail (Ishmael). The message was clear: live with brotherhood, show patience, and embrace the true meaning of sacrifice.
Inside and outside the Grand Mosque, every inch was filled with worshippers. Special security arrangements were made to manage the massive crowd peacefully.
At the same time, millions of pilgrims performing Hajj are reaching the most emotional part of their journey. After spending the night in Muzdalifah and making a heartfelt stop at Arafat, the pilgrims are now in Mina.
Today, they will throw pebbles at Jamarat (symbolizing the rejection of evil), specifically at Jamarat al-Aqaba, also called the ‘Big Satan’. This tradition follows what Prophet Ibrahim did when he resisted Satan’s temptation.
After this ritual, pilgrims will sacrifice animals, shave or trim their hair, and remove their Ihram (white pilgrimage clothes) — marking a powerful spiritual transformation.
Later, they will return to Makkah to complete Tawaf (circling the Kaaba) and Sa’i (walking between the hills of Safa and Marwah) — final steps in their Hajj journey.
Saudi officials have confirmed that everything is going smoothly, thanks to thousands of staff, medical teams, and volunteers on constant alert. Emergency teams are on standby to assist at any moment, and all key rituals are progressing peacefully.
While the Gulf countries are celebrating today, Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and other South Asian countries will observe Eid al-Adha tomorrow (Saturday). Preparations are underway as families get ready to offer their sacrifices and join in prayers.
Across the Gulf today, Muslims are sacrificing animals in remembrance of Prophet Ibrahim’s obedience to Allah and engaging in extra prayers and charity, keeping alive the soul of Eid.
This moment in the Islamic calendar brings together the spiritual essence of obedience, unity, and selflessness. The pilgrimage to Mecca during Hajj and the celebration of Eid al-Adha worldwide serve as reminders of faith in action. From the deserts of Mina to city streets across the Gulf, the atmosphere is full of gratitude, remembrance, and powerful human connection.
The world sees not just a religious holiday, but a movement of millions showing devotion and peace. With pilgrims gathered in one of the largest peaceful human gatherings on Earth, and Muslims worldwide sharing in the same ritual of sacrifice, this truly reflects a global spiritual unity.
