Eid al-Adha 2026 in Egypt will begin on Tuesday, 26th May, and end on Saturday, 30th May. The main day of the festival is on Wednesday, 27th May, when Eid celebrations include communal Fajr prayers and Qurbani, followed by family gatherings over delicious meals. Eid festivities are also expected to take place at famous sites around Egypt from the Pyramids of the Giza Plateau to resorts on the Red Sea coast. 

Egypt during Eid Al-Adha is one of a kind throughout the world. The smell of BBQ wafts from every street while the chanting of “Takbeer! Takbeer! Takbeer!” echoes as families don their finest attire streaming out from mosques after the morning prayers. For tourists, especially those from the UAE, this is an exhilarating experience to behold that displays the rich culture of the Arab world. 

As an Egypt travel guide by a travel agency in Dubai that provides affordable Egypt tour packages, in this blog we’ll discuss everything there is to know about one of the biggest celebrations in Egypt, from the date on which Al-Eid Al-Kabir is celebrated to traditions and customs of this occasion; top travel destinations for your trip to Egypt during Eid; the traditional foods that are served to family and friends during the occasion; and travel tips to make your trip to Egypt a fun and memorable one. 

Eid Al-Adha 2026 Egypt Dates? 

Eid Al-Adha this year will be on the 10th of Dhu al-Hijjah in the Islamic calendar, a major Muslim celebration, announced Egypt’s Dar al-Ifta, the country’s top body tasked with moon sighting. Here are the 2026 dates for the occasion: 

Arafat Day (Yawm Arafah): Tuesday, 26 May 2026 — the holiest day of Hajj, observed with fasting 

• Eid Al-Adha — Day 1: Wednesday, 27 May 2026 — main Eid prayer, Qurbani (sacrifice), family gatherings 
• Public Holiday Day 2: Thursday, 28 May 2026 
• Public Holiday Day 3: Friday, 29 May 2026 
• Public Holiday Day 4: Saturday, 30 May 2026 

Important Note: Islamic holiday dates can shift by one day depending on official moon sighting announcements by Dar al-Ifta. Please check dar-alifta website close to the holiday for the final date. 

Egypt’s 4-day public holiday — plus the weekend — offers domestic travelers their biggest window of time off from work all year. We advise booking flights and hotel reservations at least 2-3 months in advance. 

Why Visit Egypt During Eid Al-Adha 2026? 

Eid Al-Adha feels truly authentic in Egypt. Here’s why it’s a must-experience for visitors. 

• Automatic pick-up from the airport or your hotel in the city & direct transfer to the hotel for check-in. 
• Schedule a spiritual visit to Fajr prayers at the world’s oldest mosques. 
• Attend the traditional night buffet at the unique mosque area. 
• Experience Egyptian hospitality like there's no tomorrow—more than usual, Egyptians invite strangers to join their huge Eid feast. 
• Enjoy seasonal foods that are available only during the period of the Eid celebration, such as Fattah and Hawawshi, served fresh from the oven and ground to order. 
• Holiday parties and special events surround guests while visiting classic sites like the Pyramids and Luxor temples and relaxing at a premier Red Sea resort. 
• Experience a vibrant, living Islamic tradition dating back over 1,400 years. 

Tip: The most popular places will be sold out well in advance. Plan now to make the trip fantastic.  

Eid Traditions in Egypt? 

Eid Al-Adha or the Festival of Sacrifice is celebrated keep the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah. This is how Egyptians celebrate this holy occasion. 

The Eid Prayer (Salat al-Eid) 
People wear their new clothes or the best of their wardrobe on Eid morning. Traditionally, men wear galabeyyas and women don elegant abayas. After the morning prayer accompanied by communal prayer at a nearby mosque, a sermon is delivered, or khutbah as it is traditionally known. In Cairo alone hundreds of Thousands crowd outdoor spaces, including Al-Azhar Park and at the intersection of the junction of Almashareea and Tharir squares in Nasr City. 

The Qurbani (Sacrifice) 
After morning prayers, families gather to perform their Qurbani, the ritual slaughter of an animal, be it a sheep, goat, cow, or camel. The meat is then divided equally and shared amongst family and relatives, friends, and the poor. During Eid, it is common for animal sacrifice to occur in the street or on the grounds of homes. 

Family Gatherings & Gift-Giving 

Eid Al-Adha is a family-based occasion. Egyptians travel far and wide across the country to be with family on this day. Children receive Eidiyya (money); candies like Kahk (a shortbread ring often sprinkled with sugar and stuffed with nuts or Turkish delight); and new clothes to brighten up the occasion that is full of love and excitement. 

Street Decorations & Public Festivities 

The streets will be gleaming, full of lights and crescent and star shapes. You could hear "takbeer"—Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, La ilaha illallah—blasting from the speakers of the many mosques throughout the cities. Parks and cultural centers all over offered free entertainment and activities for all ages throughout the celebration. 

Best Places to Visit During Eid Al-Adha in Egypt 

Here is a quick comparison of all eight destinations included in this travel guide. You can use this comparison to find which destinations are the best fit for your style of travel and your budget. 

 
Let us know more about each of them in detail!

1. Pyramids in Cairo 

Visiting the Pyramids of Giza, the only surviving wonder of the ancient world, is a must-do destination for any traveller. Even more spectacular were the Pyramids at night during Eid Al-Fitr but even in the height of the summer during Eid Al-Adha 2026, the main pyramid will be surrounded by groups of happy Egyptian families celebrating together with the usual tourists. It added a fascinating human dimension to what is already an incredible sight. 

Eid 2026 will be in late May, which means it will be during summertime so try 6 – 9 am or after 5 pm for better photos. Entry tickets to the Giza complex currently cost approximately AED 30 for foreigners. Please check the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism website for the most up-to-date information before your trip. 

Things to do:  

• Visit the Great Pyramid of Khufu (the largest at 138 meters tall). 
• The Great Sphinx is 73 m long and carved out of one ridge of limestone. 
• Take a camel or horse ride around the plateau; negotiate the price before you get on it. 
• Attend the nightly Sound and Light Show (please check for Eid timings beforehand).
• See the sunrise and sunset (both are amazing on the plateau). 
  

2. A Walk in the Cairo City 

As the Eid Al-Adha approaches, Cairo transforms into a festive fairytale. Markets bustle and many iconic spots turn into “Eid shopping hotspots”. We recommend exploring different parts of Cairo to experience the festivities in their purest form and here’s how you can spend a fun filled day across three neighbourhoods. 

Things to Do: 

• Egyptian Museum (Tahrir Square): This museum houses an encyclopaedic collection of over 120,000 objects and mummys. It includes the treasures of Tutankhamun’s tomb with over 3,000 objects on display. 3–4 hours required to visit the museum and its back stores.  
• Khan El Khalili Bazaar: This is the biggest and best-known market in Cairo, selling spices, gold, handcrafted copper, perfume and lots of souvenirs. It’s even more exciting on Eid evenings when the stalls stay open late and the crowds come out. 
• City of Islamic Cairo (Al-Muizz Street): Visit the UNESCO-protected site where you can see impressive mosques and historical Mamluk architecture all along the road. The biggest and most beautiful mosque in Cairo, Al-Azhar, is found here. The streets are very small and complex, so you’ll use rickshaws and local cabs to get around. 
• Cairo Nile dinner cruise—Choose to travel by felucca (traditional local sailboat) or by cruise boat on an overnight or dinner cruise on the River Nile. This is a unique and relaxing way to experience the ever-changing panorama of Cairo’s skyline at night. 
  

3. Open-Air Museum, Luxor 

While Cairo may be in full swing celebrating Eid, Luxor seems just the opposite. Between exploring the many temples and tombs here, a useful rule of thumb for travelers to Luxor is to remember that the city exists on both banks of the Nile and that both have their own charms. The so-called “East Bank” (Living Temples) and the West Bank (Tombs of the Dead) complement each other. 

Things to Do: 

• The Karnak Temple Complex is one of the largest ancient religious complexes in the world, with the impressive hypostyle hall with 134 monumental sandstone pillars and considered to be one of the most photographed places on Earth. 
• The Valley of the Kings is the final resting place of Ramesses II, Tutankhamun, and over 60 pharaohs in painted and well-preserved tombs. 
• Luxor balloon rides at dawn are something like seeing the mists roll up over the West Bank at sunrise—one of those things that everyone’s supposed to do before they die—and are usually relieved to have gotten through without too much trouble.  
• Luxor Temple is beautifully lit at night and is open to visit in the evening, offering a much less crowded, more atmospheric experience than in the day. 
• A Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan or vice versa, including both cities on a 3–4-day cruise, is arguably one of the highlights of traveling in Egypt. 
  

4. Relax in Aswan

Aswan, the southernmost of Egypt’s major cities, is also the most relaxed. Although there is little that remains quiet during Eid Al-Adha, Aswan is the best place to find a peaceful oasis in which to celebrate. 

Things to Do: 

• Philae Temple: After a short boat ride, visit the beautifully preserved temple of Isis. One of the world’s most incredible architectural saves, the temple was moved stone by stone to its present location to prevent its destruction by the construction of Lake Nasser. 
• Abu Simbel Temples: These incredible temples are a couple of hours' drive south (or short flight) from Aswan. The two seated statues of Ramesses are an amazing 20 meters high. 
• Take a Felucca ride on the Nile: Enjoy the ultimate in relaxation as you cruise past Elephantine Island on a simple wooden sailboat while watching the sun set over the desert; it is amongst the most peaceful experiences that Egypt has to offer. 
• Nubian villages: We cross to the West Bank to visit some Nubian villages where you can see beautifully decorated houses. You can experience a completely different culture from that found in mainstream Egypt. 
  

 5. Beauty of Alexandria 

While it is Egypt’s second city, there’s something about Alexandria that feels distinct from the rest of the country. Perhaps it’s the cool sea air, the cosmopolitan vibe of the residents or the feeling of history and heritage embodied in the remnants of the Greco-Roman city from centuries ago. The capital’s residents are known to enjoy here for Eid, so book ahead for accommodation. 

Things to Do: 

• Bibliotheca Alexandrina: The modern rebuild of the ancient Library of Alexandria in a stunning architectural development housing millions of books and several museums and exhibitions. 
• Qaitbay Citadel: A 15th-century fort built on the site of the famous Lighthouse of Alexandria (one of the Seven Wonders of the World). Beautiful views of the sea from the fort walls. 
• Stanley Beach & Corniche: Go for a 26km walk along the seafront, have a swim at Stanley Beach or enjoy some refreshing sea food over a cold beer at one of the many seafront cafes. 
• Seafood: Alexandria’s many fish restaurants, many located right on the corniche, serve up some of Egypt’s freshest seafood. Look for offerings of grilled Red Sea fish, calamari, and shrimp at places like the listed recommendations. 
  

 6. Enjoy in Sharm El Sheikh

Sharm El Sheikh is the go-to destination for a beach holiday in Egypt. Its world-class coral reefs, first-rate luxury hotels, and sunshine lured tourists year-round. Due to the Eid Al-Adha vacations, Sharm El-Sheikh is crowded with affluent local tourists and GCC visitors. It is therefore wise to book hotels early; rates are high and usually booked three months in advance. 

Things to Do: 

• Snorkelling & scuba diving: Explore the world’s richest coral reefs at the Straits of Tiran and Ras Mohammed National Park with visibility of over 30 meters. 
• Ras Mohammed National Park: It's where Egypt's first national park began—on the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula. This former park now serves as a protected marine reserve featuring several of the region’s best dive sites. 
• Pool and beach areas of luxury resorts and hotels: Many 5-star resorts along Naama Bay offer special festive Eid dinners and hold family entertainment programs during Eid. 
• Desert Safari: Go on a desert safari by Jeep or quad bike on the Sinai sands with a local Bedouin guide, far removed from the usual activities of a beach holiday. Venture deep into the desert to witness one dramatic, sandy, dune-filled landscape after another while listening to Bedouin tales and learning secrets hidden in this arid world. An evening desert safari ends with entertainment by local performers. 
  

7. Peace at Hurghada 

Hurghada offers a similar Red Sea holiday experience to Sharm El Sheikh at much lower prices and is our top family and budget holiday destination in Egypt for Eid Al-Adha.  

Things to Do: 

• Giftun Island: Take a day boat to this beautiful day-outing area. Giftun Island is a protected nature reserve with fabulous white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise water that is considered one of the best beaches in Egypt. 
• Glass-bottom boat: Suitable for any non-swimmers who wish to see the stunning coral reef and marine life. 
• Snorkelling & diving: Snorkelling and diving from Hurghada's beaches is easy and within reach. The house reefs can be reached directly from the beach or by a short boat trip. 
• Marina: Many dine out in various restaurants, go to shisha cafés, shop in the many retail outlets for all manner of clothes and accessories and take in a movie in this hub of late-night activity during Eid. 
  

8. Family Friendly Place, Siwa Oasis 

Siwa, Egypt’s remotest desert oasis in the Western Desert, some 560 km from Cairo, is the country’s most peaceful vacation destination; it’s also the least visited during Eid. Siwa’s unique Siwan Berber culture is vastly different from all other cultures in Egypt. 

Things to Do: 

• Salt lakes (Birket Siwa): Get to enjoy floating in the incredibly relaxing and surreal experience of the salt lakes of Birket Siwa. 
• Shali Fortress: The 13th-century mud-brick city of Siwa, at the heart of the oasis, with lovely spots for photography at dawn and dusk. 
• Cleopatra's Spring (Ain Guba): A natural spot for locals to have a bath, where you can also cool off in the desert season. 
• Traditional cultures and food: Siwa has its own music, cuisine, and crafts; deeply traditional people are very open to tourists if respectful. 
  

Traditional Eid Foods in Egypt 2026 

Eid al-Adha may be a time of reflection and sacrifice for many Egyptians, but food certainly takes center stage, especially as Qurbani provides a big influx of fresh meat at a time of the year when they don’t normally get to eat these types of foods. Here are a few of them; you must try this Eid. 

1. Fattah 

Fattah is Egypt’s ultimate Eid Al-Adha dish, usually served on the first day of the celebration. In some places, it’s served on the fourth day too, but the first day is the most common and preferred. It’s essentially four layers: first there’s toasted bread. followed by layers of rice, stewed meat (beef or lamb), and then finally a tangy sauce. 

Made with layers of crunchy bread and soft rice, mixed with chunks of meat, and covered in a distinctive sauce that is often sharp-tasting, served mainly during special occasions, it is typically served in huge quantities and consumed from a big platter while sitting on the floor surrounded by family and friends. Some restaurants like Koshary El Tahrir also offer Eid specials.

2. Hawawshi 

Hawawshi is beef or lamb, ground and spiced with onions, peppers, parsley, and more. It is stuffed into Egyptian bread and baked or grilled until the exterior is crispy and blistered.  

Fresh Qurbani meat is used to make the specialty version of Hawawshi that tastes different from the normal dish served for the rest of the year. It is sold by street vendors and local bakeries throughout Cairo, Alexandria, and other cities.

3. Kebab 

As the fresh meat from the Qurbani is distributed to the families in the community, once again the barbecues are lit as the kebabs (skewers of seasoned meat) are grilled along with the Kofta’s (minced meat mixed with a variety of spices and herbs, formed and skewered on bamboo sticks) and shared amongst the neighborhood, often on a rooftop terrace or in the street.

For the restaurant versions in Cairo, you can try kofta and kebab restaurants based in Dokki and Mohandiseen.  

4. Molokhia 

Molokhia is a dish made of finely chopped jute leaves cooked in a very tasty chicken or rabbit broth together with garlic and coriander, served with rice or bread. It has a rather unusual consistency and not everyone is familiar with it but to the Egyptians, it is very tasty and very comforting. 

It is often served alongside heavier meat dishes and is a favorite lighter to serve at Egyptian meals. It is commonly served at Egyptian homes during the Eid period. And every Egyptian family has their own recipe so the version you get to try at an Egyptian home would be the authentic one. 

5. Special Sweet - Kahk 

No Eid in Egypt is complete without trying Kahk. There’s something special about shortbread-like biscuits stuffed with delicious agameya paste, rolled-out sweet goodness, and smothered in a pinch of Turkish delight or simple powdered sugar. 

You’ll find these yummy bites all over the place weeks before Eid hits and everyone runs around, distributing them to neighbors and friends with their little kids.

Travel Tips During Eid in Egypt 2026 

• Book your accommodation 2 – 3 months prior to Eid: Every summer holiday destinations such as the Red Sea resorts (Sharm and Hurghada) as well as Alexandria are fully booked, while Cairo hotels have slightly more space because local people generally leave the city for these holidays. Sharm and Hurgherta tend to be more expensive than Cairo or Alexandria. 
• Midweek flights: Fly out on the Tuesday/Wednesday before Eid and return on a Monday to get the best deals. Flying out on peak days like Thursday and Friday will increase your flight costs drastically. 
• Arrive at opening time: The Giza Pyramids, Karnak and the Valley of the Kings are far less busy before 9 AM. Many sites in Egypt open before 6 AM during the summer months. 
• What to wear: For travel outside beach destinations, make sure to dressing modestly, and remember to cover shoulders and knees. Dress even more modestly when visiting mosques, local markets, shopping malls, video rental shops, grocery stores and residential neighborhoods during Eid (a religious holiday). 
• Some places will be closed: Government offices and banks will be closed for 4-5 days. The tourist attractions will be open, but on reduced hours. Check the individual tourist attraction’s website for updated hours or check with the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism website. 
• Carry some cash with you: A lot of smaller restaurants, street food vendors and market stalls don’t accept cards. Also, be aware that while there are ATMs all over cities, they can run out of cash on public holidays. 
• Respect the Qurbani: Animal sacrifice takes place in streets and courtyards across the country. Guests traveling to ground -floor rooms in residential areas may find this distressing.  

Al-Eid Al-Kabir Mubarak 

With Eid Al-Adha 2026 falling on the 26th to the 30th of May, it will be one of the best times to visit this rich history-filled country. Watching the Eid prayer taking place outside the main mosque Al-Azhar while thousands of people chant together, dining with an Egyptian family over a delicious Fattah dinner, snorkeling or diving the crystal-clear coral reefs of the Red Sea, or sharing an early-morning hot air balloon ride gently drifting above the tombs of the Valley of the Kings to marvel at an enormous number of ancient carvings up close in perfect morning light. 

Where you go on holiday is important. How early you book your flights, accommodation, and guided tours is equally as vital—especially during school holidays and special occasions like Eid.  

For UAE residents looking for a tailor-made trip to Egypt, Next Holidays can help plan a holiday during this period with a private guide and independent tours, as well as arrange flights and hotels, and will apply for the Egypt visa for UAE residents and airport transfers. 

Want to book this tour? Check out Egypt tour packages. Alternatively, contact us to create a custom-made tour package for the Eid break. Eid Mubarak! 

See more:
Celebrating Eid Al-Adha in Sharjah 2026
Guide to Eid Al Adha Holiday Packages 2026