WATCH: All you need to know about Eid Al Adha 2021 in Qatar
Qatar today marks one of the most special occasions in the Islamic calendar, Eid Al Adha, referred to as “The Feast of Sacrifice.”
With the country currently in phase 3 of the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions, the special occasion is likely to see families make the most of their Eid holiday by getting together in small groups or heading to Qatar’s scenic parks and beaches.
With children under the age of 12 now allowed at certain public venues, families may also use the opportunity to indulge in some enjoyable time at the cinemas, souqs or malls. However, health authorities have urged everyone to continue adhering to preventive and precautionary measures against COVID-19 to enjoy a safe and healthy Eid.
There is an array of fantastic offers at hotels across the country, specially designed for Eid Al Adha 2021 that citizens and residents can avail of.
Wondering what Eid Al Adha in Qatar is all about? Here’s everything you need to know:
Eid Al Adha
Eid Al Adha also called “The Feast of Sacrifice” or “The Greater Eid,” is Islam’s holiest festival.
Although it is not obligatory on all Muslims, most offer a sacrifice to gain the pleasure of Allah the Almighty on the occasion of Eid Al Adha. Families and friends don their best clothes and visit each other and exchange food or gifts.
Eid Al Adha is also a significant time for charity. To those who can afford it, it is recommended to make an effort to reach out to those who are less fortunate.
As you celebrate the blessed occasion this year, be sure to follow the Ministry of Public Health's guidelines regarding the number of individuals at gatherings and maintaining social distancing.
Eid Holidays
According to the announcement, the Eid Al Adha holidays for all these entities begin Sunday, July 18, 2021, and end on, Sunday, July 25, 2021. Employees will go back to work on Monday, July 26, 2021.
Qatar Central Bank (QCB) has also announced that Eid holidays for all financial institutions in the country, including banks, currency exchanges, insurance companies, finance, investment, and financial consultants, will commence on Sunday, July 18, 2021, and end on Saturday, July 24, 2021.
All financial institutions return to work before the public on Sunday, July 25, 2021,
While for employees in the private sector, the number of days off varies between companies.
The first day of Eid Al Adha 2021 will likely fall on July 20. However, the Ministry of Endowments (Awqaf) and Islamic Affairs will make the official announcement.
Eid Prayers
As Qatar is currently in phase 3 of the lifting of restrictions, mosques have remained open to worshippers, with all preventive and precautionary measures in place.
The Ministry of Awqaf issued a list of over 900 mosques where worshippers were able to offer Eid prayers.
The time for the Eid prayers held today morning was 5.10 am.
Eid offers at Hotels
This Eid Al Adha, get together with your loved ones over delightful dining and staycation offers at hotels in Qatar.
All visitors are asked to abide by the safety measures in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Keep a check on our guide to Eid Al Adha 2021 offers at hotels.
Events taking place during the Eid holiday
While there may not be much going on at the moment, here are some events that you can consider participating in over the Eid holiday.
Fresh Local Dates Festival 2021
Are you a fan of the date fruit? Here's your chance to try the finest dates produced locally. Over 80 farms are taking part in this edition of the festival featuring a range of fresh local dates, including Khalas, Al Shishi, Al Khanizi, Barhi, Iraqi, Silji, Sufri, Nabt Saif, Al Sawafi, and Khurdi, which are available at very attractive prices until July 30, 2021.
Venue: Souq Waqif
Time: 4 pm to 10 pm
Mall of Qatar
Mall of Qatar (MoQ) is hosting a range of activations in a festive yet spiritual ambience this Eid Al Adha.
MoQ will host Al-Rayyan TV for a special Eid program with a roaming crew, giving visitors the chance to win a range of gifts and prizes. The show will be for four days from 1 pm to 2 pm.
Families and children can also enjoy special moments with several mascots greeting people, who can take photos for a memorable souvenir.
MoQ also offers an eye-catching ambience, in addition to a spectacular mall façade lighting and indoor decorations, which assure Instagrammable moments this Eid al-Adha.
At the photo booth in the Oasis area, all visitors can take their own photos that reflect the spirit of Eid and post them on MoQ social media pages to get the chance to win prizes.
Qatar Museums
Qatar Museums has launched several events and activities catering to a wide array of interests and artistic passions, to be hosted across its cultural institutions throughout July.
Art Lessons at Mathaf with Ismael Azzam
Every Wednesday and Thursday from 4 pm - 7 pm
Adults are invited to join artist Ismael Azzam for a new season of Art Lessons at Mathaf and learn techniques in portraiture drawing using pencil, charcoal and paint. Lessons are offered free of charge to people with basic to intermediate sketching and drawing skills. To sign up, please visit: https://www.mathaf.org.qa/en/
Planet Kids Club
July 29, 10 am – 11.30 am
Children between 5 and 11 years of age are invited to join Planet Kids Club, an online monthly storytime, discussion and activity relating the museum to protecting the planet. Each story is related to a monthly theme. Children will participate in crafting and learn more about museum objects. Tips on how to preserve the environment will also be shared.
To book, please email [email protected]
Islam’s Influence on Qatar Cultural Heritage
July 27 (English) and July 29 (Arabic) from 12 pm to 1 pm
Join this virtual journey which focuses on the arrival of Islam to Qatar and its influence on the Qatari cultural heritage. This influence appears in many social practices, customs and traditions that are passed down through generations, and has a great impact on traditional architecture. Participants will learn about the routes, necessary preparations, the duration of the pilgrimage journey (Hajj) and the celebrations after they return.
For more information, please email [email protected]
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Eid mubarak