Eid al-Adha 2026

What Eid al-Adha Is

Eid al-Adha, the Festival of Sacrifice, is one of the two major Islamic holidays observed across Egypt and the wider Muslim world. It falls on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijja, the final month of the Islamic lunar calendar, coinciding with the climax of the annual Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca. In 2026, the dates are expected to run approximately 6-9 June, though exact dates are confirmed by moon sighting and can shift by a day.

The holiday commemorates Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God, and the ram that was provided as a substitute. Families who can afford it sacrifice an animal - usually a sheep or cow - and distribute the meat among family, neighbours, and those in need.

What to Expect in Egypt

Eid al-Adha is a full public holiday across Egypt, typically lasting three to four days. Banks, government offices, and the majority of businesses close. Most local restaurants and cafes close on the first morning, reopening from the afternoon of the first day onwards.

Tourist sites and museums at Luxor, Cairo, Aswan, and the Red Sea resorts generally remain open during Eid, though hours may be reduced on the first day. Entry fees and transport operate normally. We recommend verifying opening times with specific sites the day before.

Street life changes noticeably during Eid. Early morning prayers draw large crowds to mosques and outdoor prayer grounds across the country. After prayers, families gather for meals and visiting. The festive atmosphere is warm and welcoming; many Egyptians will greet travellers with “Eid Mubarak.”

Tips for Travelling Over Eid

Book accommodation early. Egyptians travelling domestically for Eid push up demand at resort destinations, particularly Hurghada, Sharm el-Sheikh, and Alexandria. Room prices increase and availability tightens in the week before.

Expect quieter days. The first day of Eid sees the fewest people out and about in markets and souks. By the second and third day, the streets are busy and festive.

Grocery shopping. If you are self-catering, stock up the day before the holiday begins. Supermarkets in tourist areas tend to stay open but with reduced stock.

Transport. Trains and intercity buses run on holiday schedules. Book intercity travel in advance if you plan to move between cities during the holiday period.

Eid al-Adha is one of the more interesting times to be in Egypt as a visitor. The sense of collective celebration across the country is distinctive, and the hospitality extended to travellers during the holiday is notable. See our Egypt etiquette guide for more on navigating local customs.