June 5, 2025 — Muslims across the globe are celebrating Eid al-Adha, one of the most sacred festivals in the Islamic calendar, with traditional prayers, charitable giving, and animal sacrifices symbolizing the spirit of devotion and sacrifice. The joyous occasion, known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” honors the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son in obedience to God.
Despite the festive spirit around the world, this year’s Eid al-Adha is marked by a significant downturn in Hajj pilgrimage attendance, which has fallen to its lowest level in three decades, excluding the COVID-19 pandemic years. According to Saudi officials, only around 850,000 pilgrims attended the Hajj in 2025, a sharp decline from the pre-pandemic norm of over 2.5 million pilgrims.
Religious analysts attribute the drop in numbers to a combination of rising travel costs, strict visa policies, and geopolitical tensions in parts of the Muslim world. Economic challenges and ongoing regional conflicts have also affected many Muslims’ ability to perform the pilgrimage, which is one of the five pillars of Islam.
READ MORE: 5 Best Recipes to Try This Eid ul Azha
Meanwhile, in cities from Jakarta to Istanbul and Cairo to New York, Muslims gathered early Thursday morning in open fields, mosques, and community centers to offer Eid prayers. Families later celebrated with festive meals, the distribution of sacrificial meat to the poor, and community outreach events.
Leaders from various nations extended Eid greetings and called for unity, peace, and compassion during these turbulent times.
While the spiritual significance of Eid al-Adha remains undiminished, the record-low Hajj participation is prompting many to reflect on global inequalities in access to religious rites and the impact of economic and political barriers on Islamic traditions.
1 Comment
Pingback: Over 7 Million animals sacrificed in Pakistan amid soaring prices, economic strain - Media Bites