What is Eid al-Adha?
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Eid al-Adha, or the “Festival of Sacrifice,” is one of the most significant Islamic holidays.
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It occurs on the 10th day of the 12th month in the Islamic lunar calendar.
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It honors Prophet Abraham/Ibrahim’s (peace be upon him) sacrificial act and celebrates the culmination of the annual Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca.
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It’s a time of prayer, charity, family, and reflection.
Common Practices
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Morning prayer at the mosque
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Animal sacrifice or charitable donations to feed and provide provisions to the less fortunate
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Gathering with family and friends
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Wearing traditional attire
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Sharing meals and sweets
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Exchanging gifts
Most Muslims will take time off to observe religious and cultural traditions.
Eid Accommodations
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Be Flexible
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Allow PTO or unpaid time for observance.
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Ask your team proactively if they need flexibility.
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Respect that religious observance is deeply personal and may not look the same for everyone.
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Avoid Scheduling Conflicts
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Try not to plan key meetings, deadlines, or events during Eid.
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If unsure, ask your team or check in on scheduling preferences in advance.
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Be Thoughtful, Not Tokenizing
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Wish your colleagues well: “Eid Mubarak!” meaning “Blessed Eid!”
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Don’t assume everyone celebrates the same way, or celebrates at all.
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Give space for colleagues to share – if they want to.
Create Inclusive Work Culture Year-Round
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Learn about holidays and practices across cultures.
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Listen to employees about what matters to them.
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Celebrate diversity with intention, not obligation.
Festivity promotes diversity; use this time to gather and celebrate the unique qualities/traits of the staff which build helps to build bridges of commonality and increases staff morale.