I've always found Hari Raya Haji (also known as Eid al-Adha, Eid ul Adha, or the Festival of Sacrifice) to be one of the most meaningful Islamic holidays. This Greater Eid, also called Bakrid Eid or Eid al Kabir in some regions, commemorates Prophet Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah. Thankfully, a ram was divinely substituted at the last moment.

Unlike Hari Raya Puasa (Eid al-Fitr), which marks the end of Ramadan, Eid al Adha reflects themes of sacrifice, community giving, and spiritual devotion. Also known as the Adha Feast or Al Adha, it aligns with the culmination of the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca, making it a sacred time for Muslims around the globe.

In 2025, Hari Raya Haji is expected to fall on Friday, 6 June, though the actual date might vary slightly depending on the moon sighting. As a public holiday in Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and Brunei, it offers families time to gather, worship, and celebrate together.

I find the story behind Eid al-Adha particularly powerful. It traces back to the Quranic narrative of Prophet Ibrahim, who received a divine command through a dream to sacrifice his son Ismail as a test of faith. When Ibrahim prepared to fulfill this command with complete submission, Allah intervened at the last moment, replacing Ismail with a ram and rewarding Ibrahim's unwavering devotion.

This demonstration of faith establishes the foundation for Qurban (or Korban), the ritual sacrifice of livestock animals that I've participated in several times. Following Islamic tradition, the meat from sacrificed animals is divided into three portions: one for the family, one for relatives and friends, and one for the less fortunate, embodying the principles of charity and community support that I believe are fundamental to Islamic teachings.

The holiday begins with special morning prayers (Solat Eid) at mosques, followed by sermons that emphasize sacrifice, faith, and charitable giving. I've always been moved by these communal gatherings that strengthen religious bonds while reinforcing core Islamic values: submission to Allah, compassion for others, and gratitude for divine blessings.

I've spent several Eid al-Adha celebrations in Malaysia, and they're truly special. The celebrations begin with dawn prayers at local mosques, after which families gather for the korban ritual. Livestock—typically cows, goats, or sheep—are sacrificed according to Islamic principles, with the meat distributed among family, neighbors, and those in need.

I love seeing Malaysians in their finest traditional attire, with men in Baju Melayu (tunic with matching pants) and women in colorful Baju Kurung or Kebaya. Extended families gather for feasts featuring signature dishes like rendang, ketupat, and lemang. The tradition of "open house" (rumah terbuka) has allowed me to experience Malaysian hospitality firsthand, as homes welcome visitors throughout the day, fostering community bonds across different backgrounds.

During my travels through Indonesia, I've been amazed by the diversity of Eid ul Adha traditions across the archipelago. As home to the world's largest Muslim population, Indonesia displays remarkably varied celebrations. In Java, I witnessed elaborate ceremonies with decorated livestock processions before sacrifice.

Traditional gamelan music and cultural performances enrich these celebrations, while in cities like Jakarta and Surabaya, I've joined mass prayers at grand mosques that bring together thousands of worshippers. I've noticed that urban families often combine religious observations with modern shopping mall visits and dining experiences, while rural communities maintain more traditional, communal celebrations centered around the village mosque.

Singapore holds a special place in my heart for Eid al Kabir celebrations. The city-state's cosmopolitan environment shapes unique observations that blend tradition with modern convenience. I've attended morning prayers at iconic mosques like Sultan Mosque in Kampong Glam and Masjid Jamae in Chinatown, before participating in korban rituals organized by the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS).

Many of my Singaporean friends opt for charitable monetary donations in lieu of physical sacrifice, contributing to humanitarian causes worldwide. What I appreciate most is how the holiday provides an opportunity for Singapore's multicultural society to experience Islamic traditions, with cultural exhibitions and food bazaars attracting visitors of all backgrounds.

Though I've only visited Brunei once during Eid ul Bakra, I was impressed by how, in this nation where Islam is the official state religion, celebrations feature more formal ceremonial elements alongside family traditions.

The Sultan leads public prayers and participates in national celebrations, while communities organize extensive korban rituals. Bruneian families maintain elaborate traditional customs, with multiple days dedicated to visiting relatives and hosting gatherings featuring distinctive local cuisines that I found absolutely delicious.

During my visit to Saudi Arabia, I experienced how Eid al-Adha (locally called Id Adha) represents the culmination of the Hajj pilgrimage. I was overwhelmed by the sight of millions of pilgrims gathering at Mina to perform their individual sacrifices, while cities throughout the region observe multi-day celebrations with elaborate feasts and family gatherings. I noticed that government offices and businesses close for several days, allowing extended family reunions that fill homes with warmth and connection.

My time in Turkey during Eid Bakrid (as the holiday is known there) showed me how the celebration typically spans four days. I joined families who rise early for prayer, followed by the sacrifice ritual performed by trained butchers. I was particularly charmed by Turkish traditions including special sweets preparation, gift-giving to children, and visiting elderly relatives. Walking through Istanbul, I was moved by the sight of historic mosques becoming centers of community gathering, their courtyards filled with worshippers for the special morning prayers.

In my travels through Morocco and Egypt, I've experienced vibrant Al Eid Adha celebrations with regional specialties. I've enjoyed Moroccan mechoui (slow-roasted lamb) served with traditional mint tea, while street celebrations featured music and dance that I couldn't help but join. In Egypt, I've accompanied families to public parks and entertainment venues after religious obligations, experiencing the festive atmosphere that extends beyond religious communities.

My visits to Pakistan, Bangladesh, and India during El Aid Adha revealed celebrations incorporating distinctive cultural elements including mehndi (henna) ceremonies, new clothes, and elaborate biryani feasts that I still dream about. I was welcomed into extended family gatherings spanning several days, with traditional gift-giving and special attention to charitable actions that demonstrated the true spirit of the holiday.

Eid ul Zuha creates distinctive travel patterns across Muslim-majority countries and regions with significant Muslim populations. Three primary travel trends emerge during this period:

If you're traveling during this period, be prepared for:

For a smoother journey, consider traveling on the actual day of Raya Adha when many locals are engaged in prayers and family gatherings, resulting in less crowded transportation. Also, download the Traveloka app to access real-time flight updates, hotel availability, and exclusive holiday promotions.

While not during the actual Hajj season, many Muslims take this opportunity to plan future Umrah journeys or explore domestic sites of religious significance:

Read More about What to Do During Hari Raya Haji Here

Eid al Qurban culinary traditions center around the sacrificial meat shared among family, friends, and those in need. This focus on meat distinguishes it from Hari Raya Puasa's broader range of sweet and savory dishes.

For me, choosing the right attire for Bakrid Eid is both a spiritual practice and a celebration of culture. The holiday calls for modest yet festive clothing that balances religious requirements with celebratory spirit. I typically wear the Baju Melayu (a loose tunic with matching pants) paired with a samping (decorative waist cloth) and songkok (black cap) for morning prayers. My female family members don the elegant Baju Kurung (a loose-fitting, full-length blouse and skirt combination) or Kebaya (a more fitted blouse paired with a sarong) in bright colors or subtle pastels.

I've noticed among my younger cousins a trend of blending traditional elements with modern styles—pairing traditional tops with jeans or incorporating traditional patterns into contemporary designs. One year, my nephew combined a traditional top with slim-fit pants and modern accessories that looked both respectful and fashionable. I've even seen modest fashion designers creating collections specifically for Raya Haji 2024, featuring modern interpretations of traditional garments with innovative fabrics and styling.

Regardless of style preference, modesty remains my central principle, particularly for mosque attendance, with covering appropriate body parts according to Islamic guidelines.

For the sacrificial ritual that gives the Festival of Sacrifice its name, I've developed a process over the years:

Beyond personal preparations, my family considers:

The exchange of warm greetings forms an important part of Id Ul Adha celebrations, whether through physical cards, digital messages, or social media posts. Thoughtful wishes reflect the festival's emphasis on sacrifice, faith, and community.

Whether you prefer something traditional or more modern, these Eid ul Adha greetings and Hari Raya Haji wishes can help you express joy, reflection, and connection during this sacred time. Let your message carry not only words, but also warmth. Explore more complete Hari Raya Haji greetings here.

When Eid Kabir falls near a weekend, it creates a valuable opportunity to enjoy a longer, more fulfilling break. With thoughtful planning and the right tools, you can transform this public holiday into a memorable experience that blends rest, adventure, and cultural appreciation.

Take advantage of Traveloka's travel features to get more value from your bookings:

Eid al-Adha Feast of Sacrifice is a significant day for Muslims, marked by morning prayers and family gatherings. Plan your travel in a way that respects and aligns with this cultural rhythm:

If you're traveling to areas with cultural or religious significance, dress modestly and be mindful of your surroundings. Some mosques welcome respectful visitors for educational tours outside of prayer times, just ask ahead.

Non-Muslim travelers are absolutely welcome to travel during Hari Raya Haji 2023 or 2024. It's a festive period where cultural performances, open houses, and bazaars are often held—providing a rich experience for all visitors. You may even be invited to join a local celebration—feel free to participate respectfully.

Public holidays often mean higher travel volumes and more potential for delays or disruptions. Traveloka's travel insurance offers coverage for:

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With just a bit of advance planning and the smart use of travel tools, Eid Ul Adha can be more than just a public holiday—it can be a meaningful, culturally rich, and deeply enjoyable long weekend.

Hari Raya Haji embodies the beautiful intersection of faith, community, and reflection. Whether you're observing religious traditions, reuniting with family, exploring cultural expressions across different regions, or simply enjoying the Eid Ul Adha Mubarak celebrations, this occasion invites everyone to welcome the values of sacrifice, generosity, and gratitude.

The holiday offers unique travel opportunities—from spiritual journeys to family adventures and cultural explorations. Each destination provides its own perspective on this important celebration while maintaining the core elements of prayer, sacrifice, and community.

Ready to immerse yourself in the sacred and festive atmosphere of Hari Raya Hajj 2025? Book your flights, hotels, and travel activities through Traveloka for a seamless and memorable journey. Our special holiday promotions, flexible booking options, and comprehensive travel guides ensure you'll experience this meaningful occasion exactly as you envision it.