Doha, Qatar: Qatar is set to celebrate Eid Al Adha today with thousands of worshippers expected to gather for Eid prayers at mosques and prayer grounds across the country, while a packed calendar of family-friendly events and cultural activities promises a festive atmosphere throughout the holiday.
The Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs has completed preparations for Eid prayers by designating 733 mosques and open-air prayer grounds across the country to accommodate worshippers for one of the most significant occasions in the Islamic calendar.
Eid prayers are scheduled to begin at 5am, with venues distributed across municipalities to ensure easy access for residents and citizens. Preparations have included arrangements to facilitate crowd movement and ensure worshippers can perform prayers in a safe and comfortable environment.
The ministry has encouraged worshippers to head to nearby designated prayer grounds and arrive early, particularly as large crowds are expected at major mosques and Eid musallas in Doha and surrounding municipalities.
The spiritual observance of Eid Al Adha, known as the Festival of Sacrifice, will see families gathering after prayers to exchange greetings, share festive meals and perform charitable acts, while many residents are expected to take advantage of the long holiday to enjoy entertainment and tourism activities around the country.
Adding to the festive spirit, several destinations across Qatar have unveiled special Eid programmes featuring live performances, cultural activities and children’s entertainment.
At the Education City Stadium, Eid prayers will be followed by family-oriented activities organised by the Minaretein Center, creating a community atmosphere for worshippers and visitors. Families attending the prayers will be able to enjoy post-prayer gatherings and activities aimed at celebrating the occasion in an engaging environment.
Meanwhile, Old Doha Port will host four days of Eid Al Adha festivities, offering visitors traditional performances, family entertainment and activities celebrating Qatar’s maritime heritage. The Mina District will come alive with cultural experiences, including traditional music, hospitality experiences, interactive performances and giveaways for families and children.
The celebrations will also include community-focused activities and entertainment aimed at attracting residents and tourists seeking festive outdoor experiences during the holiday.
For families looking to spend time by the waterfront, 974 Beach will host an Eid family festival featuring live shows, children’s performances and interactive activities.
Visitors can expect puppet shows, circus acts, magic performances, face painting, henna activities, beach games and family entertainment designed to appeal to all age groups.
Shopping malls and leisure destinations are also expected to join the celebrations with Eid-themed promotions, extended entertainment programmes and activities for children, adding to the celebratory atmosphere across the country.
The Workers Support and Insurance Fund is also organising a vibrant Eid Al Adha Celebrations 2026 for communities at Asian Town, Al Khor Workers Sports Complex, and Kreeq Sports behind Barwa Village.
The Eid Gah at the cricket stadium parking in Asian Town, prepared in collaboration with the Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs, will accommodate 5,000 worshippers, opening at 4:30am today for 5am prayers.
Festivities from 5 pm to 10/11 pm will feature Pakistani artists’ musical concerts, cultural shows, raffle draws with valuable prizes, safety awareness programmes, film shows, and free health check-ups. Entry is free for all.
Meanwhile, the Qatar Meteorology Department has forecast hot to very hot weather during the first two days of Eid, urging residents to plan outdoor activities accordingly.
Temperatures on the first day are expected to range between 31°C and 43°C, accompanied by southwesterly to northwesterly winds of 5-15 knots, with gusts reaching 24 knots during daytime. On the second day, hot weather will continue, alongside a warning for high offshore waves.
Despite the summer heat, Eid Al Adha remains one of the most anticipated periods of the year in Qatar, bringing together families, communities and visitors in celebration of faith, generosity and togetherness.
