Eid al-Adha Prayer Times in Various Regions

Eid prayer grounds, also known as Eidgahs, are open-air spaces designated for the Muslim community to perform the special congregational prayers held during the two major Islamic festivals, Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. This tradition dates back to the time of the Prophet Muhammad, who would lead prayers outside the city to accommodate large gatherings. Typically, these grounds are located on the outskirts of towns or cities and are used specifically for the Eid prayers, emphasizing the unity and communal aspect of the celebrations.

Mosques are places of worship for followers of Islam, one of the world’s major religions. The first mosque was the house of the Prophet Muhammad in Medina, built in the 7th century, which not only served as a place for prayer but also as a community center for Muslims. Architecturally, mosques have evolved over the centuries, incorporating local styles and innovations, but they traditionally include features such as a mihrab (a niche indicating the direction of Mecca), minarets (towers from which the call to prayer is announced), and large halls for congregational prayers.

The Umm al-Qura calendar is an Islamic lunar calendar used primarily in Saudi Arabia for civil purposes. It was officially adopted by the Kingdom in 1957 and is based on astronomical calculations rather than actual moon sightings, which differentiates it from the traditional Islamic calendar. The calendar plays a crucial role in determining the dates of religious observances such as Ramadan, Hajj, and other Islamic events within Saudi Arabia.

Mecca, located in the Hejazi region of Saudi Arabia, is the holiest city in Islam and the birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad. Central to the city is the Masjid al-Haram, the largest mosque in the world, which houses the Kaaba, a cuboid building that Muslims face during their daily prayers. Every year, millions of Muslims from around the world participate in the Hajj, a pilgrimage to Mecca that is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, required of all able-bodied Muslims once in their lifetime.

The Medina refers to the old part of many cities in North African countries, particularly noted in places like Marrakesh and Fez in Morocco. Characterized by narrow, maze-like streets and bustling with traders and market stalls, these historic areas are often surrounded by walls and function as the cultural and historical heart of the city. The medinas in Morocco, for example, date back to the founding of their respective cities, with Fez’s Medina, established in the 9th century, being one of the world’s largest urban pedestrian zones and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Riyadh, the capital city of Saudi Arabia, is a modern metropolis that has rapidly grown from a small, isolated desert town in the early 20th century to one of the wealthiest cities in the Middle East. The city’s history dates back to the pre-Islamic era, but it became prominently recognized in 1902 when Abdulaziz Ibn Saud captured Riyadh, marking the first step towards the consolidation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Today, Riyadh stands as a political, economic, and cultural center, characterized by its blend of ancient heritage sites and cutting-edge skyscrapers.

Dammam is the capital city of the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia and is known for being one of the country’s major administrative centers for the Saudi oil industry. Founded in 1923, the city has grown significantly due to its strategic position on the Persian Gulf, contributing to its economic and urban development. Today, Dammam is a key economic hub in the region, featuring the King Abdulaziz Sea Port, one of the largest on the Persian Gulf, and is connected by major railroads and highways to other parts of the country and the Arabian Peninsula.

Abha is a city in southwestern Saudi Arabia, serving as the capital of the Asir province. Located at an elevation of about 2,270 meters (7,450 feet), Abha is known for its mild climate and scenic beauty, making it a popular summer destination. The city has a rich history, influenced by its strategic location on a plateau in the mountains, and features attractions such as the Abha Dam, Al-Soudah Park, and the cultural heritage of the Asir region, highlighted in its architecture and local crafts.

Buraidah is a city located in the Qassim Province of Saudi Arabia and serves as the province’s capital. Known for its rich agricultural heritage, Buraidah hosts a significant date fruit market which is considered the largest in the world, drawing traders and visitors from across the region. The city has a history that dates back over 5,000 years, with its growth influenced by its position on the ancient caravan routes that facilitated trade across the Arabian Peninsula.

Hail is a city located in north-central Saudi Arabia, known for its rich history and cultural heritage. It served as an important stop on the caravan routes across the Arabian Peninsula, linking the region to the rest of the Middle East and facilitating trade and cultural exchanges. Today, Hail is celebrated for its preservation of Najdi architecture and traditional crafts, and it hosts the annual Hail International Rally, attracting motorsport enthusiasts from around the globe.