As Eid al-Adha 2025 approaches, online searches increase for Eid prayer times.
Eid al-Adha prayer is a major Islamic ritual that concludes the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah and spreads a unique spiritual and joyful atmosphere among Muslims.
When Is Eid al-Adha Prayer Time in Somalia?
Eid al-Adha prayer in Somalia is expected to begin about 15 to 20 minutes after sunrise and remains valid until just before the noon (Dhuhr) prayer.
It is held in mosques or open prayer grounds. Somali men traditionally wear a special outfit for Eid known as the qamees or dishdasha along with a wizar (wrap).
A notable aspect of Eid celebrations in Somalia is the widespread chanting of takbeerat in mosques, which often concludes with melodious prophetic praises performed by local vocal groups, creating a deeply spiritual ambiance.
How to Perform Eid al-Adha Prayer
Eid prayer consists of two rak’ahs (units of prayer):
- In the first rak’ah, the worshiper recites seven takbeerat (excluding the opening takbeer), then recites Surat Al-Fatiha followed by Surat Al-A’la or Surat Qaf.
- In the second rak’ah, five takbeerat are recited (excluding the takbeer to stand up), followed by Surat Al-Ghashiyah or Surat Al-Qamar.
- After the prayer, the imam delivers a sermon reminding the community of the significance of the day and the rulings related to the sacrifice (Qurbani).
As narrated in Bukhari and Muslim from Abu Sa’id Al-Khudri:
“The Prophet ﷺ used to go out on the day of Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha to the prayer ground.
The first thing he would start with was the prayer.
After that, he would stand facing the people while they remained seated in rows and would preach to them, advise them, and give them commands.”
Traditions After Eid Prayer in Somalia
After Eid al-Adha prayer, Somali families return home to begin their joyful traditions.
Coffee beans are roasted in sesame oil and served alongside a dessert called Anabulo — triangular pastries filled with rice, raisins, and nuts, fried until golden.
Another staple is the Anjero, a type of spongy flatbread.
Food Traditions in Somalia at Eid al-Adha
For lunch, families usually enjoy grilled meat with spiced rice and vegetables, shared in a warm and festive atmosphere.
In the afternoon, families and their children head out to public squares and amusement areas, where the Eid spirit continues.
Children play and buy sweets and toys.
One beloved tradition includes organizing large performance areas where local youth showcase talents such as acrobatics and sleight of hand, drawing crowds from across the city.
