Eid al-Adha 2025: Top travel spots, cultural festivities, and visa tips for families

Economy ME

5 days ago

At Eid al-Adha, one of the most important Islamic holidays, people come together to celebrate with families and friends across many parts of the world. It is predicted that the Eid in 2025 will coincide with Hajj and the opening of summer travels. This year, people are traveling more for both pleasure and spiritual reasons and places throughout the Middle East, Europe and Asia are organizing special events and offers for Eid visitors.
In this piece, we explore the best Eid al-Adha 2025 holiday destinations, the latest travel updates, visa regulations, trending experiences to help you plan a memorable and hassle-free Eid getaway.
Key Eid al-Adha destinations for 2025
Dubai, UAE: Urban luxury and family fun
From fireworks at Dubai Festival City at night to headline concerts at Coca-Cola Arena and lavish Eid brunches at its 5-star hotels, Dubai is once again a regional favorite destination. Experience themed festivities in Al Fahidi Historic District to get a taste of Emirati heritage. Flights to Dubai are often in high demand, so planners are encouraged to book quickly to secure their travel.
Abha, Saudi Arabia: Mountain retreat with festive flair
Eid al-Adha 2025 will see many people choose Abha, located in Asir, Saudi Arabia. The summer heat can be avoided in the cool mountain climate and during Eid, Heritage Village is the place to visit, with its fireworks, traditional shows, craft areas and tours of Jabal Souda and Asir National Park. Airfares to Abha are generally accessible, making this city welcoming for families and travelers of all kinds.
Abha, Saudi Arabia
Istanbul, Türkiye: Spiritual heritage and vibrant bazaars
The Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia in Istanbul host grand Eid prayers and crowds gather to celebrate in Istanbul's Grand Bazaar. For Eid visitors, cruise the Bosphorus, visit Topkapı Palace (open during Eid except on the first day) and see a bit of calligraphy. With the recent easing of rules for Türkiye's mosques, it has become an appealing spiritual and leisure destination, with flight prices starting at a reasonable rate.
Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt: Beachside festivities
Eid brings live music, dancing and seaside feasts to Naama Bay, Sharm El-Sheikh. Families and those who like to have new adventures will appreciate the nearby Ras Mohammed National Park, where visitors can go snorkeling (or simply have a quick nature escape).
Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt
Trending Eid al-Adha destinations: Regional and international
Egypt: Ancient wonders and festive gatherings
Cairo:
In Cairo, one of Egypt's biggest Eid prayers is held inside the Al-Azhar Mosque, while Islamic Cairo fills with decorations, vendors and traditional sweets. Festive shopping and local crafts are to be found in the Khan El-Khalili bazaar.
Read more | Eid al-Adha 2025: UAE leads global innovation with AI-powered moon sighting
Cairo, Egypt
Giza:
Families come to the Pyramids for picnics and celebrations and combine ancient history with a modern feel.
Alexandria:
Corniche, Montazah Palace Gardens: Seaside picnics, fireworks and cultural performances are the order of the day on the Corniche and in Montazah Palace Gardens.
Luxor & Aswan:
Eid in Luxor is about reflection, among the temples and Eid in Aswan is about warm hospitality in the Nubian villages and Nile cruises.
Siwa Oasis & Abu Simbel:
At Siwa oasis or Abu Simbel's temples: A real Emirati from Siwa or the initiation of
the Abu Simbel Surises temples
to witness a religious Eid.
Al-Azhar Mosque
Saudi Arabia: Festivities beyond the holy cities
AlUla:
The Banyan Tree AlUla Resort offers luxury desert escapes, hot air balloon rides and Bedouin style dining to enjoy, all in AlUla.
Jeddah & Riyadh:
Coastal and urban adventures abound in Jeddah & Riyadh: Snorkeling in the Red Sea, city festivals and culinary tours.
Adventure Activities:
These include ziplining at Al Baha, dune buggy safaris near Riyadh, hiking in Tanomah or camping at the Edge of the World where adrenaline is alive and kicking.
UAE: Staycations and regional escapes
Dubai & Abu Dhabi:
Besides city festivities, luxury resorts and desert retreats including exclusive Eid packages in Dubai & Abu Dhabi.
Domestic Travel:
Staycations are gaining traction, with children's school breaks overlapping and increasing international costs meaning a plethora of families opting for local resorts or family-friendly attractions.
Abu Dhabi
Europe & Asia: Bucket-list Eid escapes
Switzerland, France, Italy, Latvia, Budapest:
Leading European destinations, like Switzerland, France, Italy, Latvia, Budapest: All these are trending European destinations for their cooler climate, iconic drawing power and multi city itineraries specifically for travellers choosing to stay in the UAE for longer time, more experience rich holidays.
Paris, France
Japan:
For cultural depth and content – and the adventure that comes with it – Japan is a top pick and they have immersive itineraries that will cater to an Eid.
Japan
Thailand, Bali, Malaysia, Singapore:
For shorter breaks, 3 – 5 days, Thailand, Bali, Malaysia and Singapore are family favorites – easy short flights, kid friendly things to do and good value.
The Colosseum, Italy
Latest travel updates & visa regulations
Saudi Arabia: Hajj and Eid al-Adha visa rules
Hajj Visa:
Only available through approved agencies; mandatory biometric verification and digital applications required.
Umrah visa suspension:
Temporarily paused from April 13, 2025, to prioritize Hajj pilgrims. As the Hajj season approaches, Saudi Arabia is implementing measures to regulate the flow of travelers and ensure safety during this busy period. The country has announced a temporary suspension of short-term visas for nationals from 14 countries, effective Sunday, April 13th. This suspension affects nationals from Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Libya, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sudan, Tunisia, and Yemen. All types of short-term visas will be temporarily halted, including Business Visit Visas (both single and multiple entry), E-Tourist Visas, and Family Visit Visas.
Suspension of affected visas will begin on Sunday, April 13, 2025. Visitors with a valid short-term visa can enter Saudi Arabia until April 13, 2025, but must ensure they exit before April 29, 2025. Umrah visas resume after Hajj ends in mid-July.
Tourist visas:
Entry to Makkah and parts of Madinah is restricted during Hajj; tourists are encouraged to visit other cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, or Abha.
Planning Tips:
Apply early, use only government-approved agencies, and prepare all required documents, including medical and vaccination records.
UAE: Early bookings and group travel trends
Booking patterns:
60 percent of UAE travelers confirm plans at least three weeks in advance to avoid soaring airfare costs, according to a recent report from
Musafir.com
.
Group travel:
Family bookings make up 60 percent of the total, with a notable rise in women-only and solo trips.
Travel budgets:
Average between AED3,500–5,500 per person, with strong demand for both affordable luxury and cultural depth.
Eid al-Adha 2025: Top experiences & activities
Cultural festivals and fireworks
Abha, Saudi Arabia:
Heritage Village fireworks, traditional dances, and craft workshops.
Dubai, UAE:
Nightly fireworks at Dubai Festival City, concerts, and Global Village festivities.
Alexandria, Egypt:
Seaside fireworks and cultural performances along the Corniche.
Adventure and nature escapes
Saudi Arabia:
Ziplining, dune buggy safaris, hiking, camping, boat rides, and Red Sea snorkeling.
Sharm El-Sheikh:
Snorkeling and picnics at Ras Mohammed National Park.
Giftun Island National Park, Egypt:
Snorkeling, swimming, and beach picnics for a tranquil Eid.
Spiritual journeys
Makkah & Madinah:
Reserved for Hajj pilgrims with strict entry rules.
Cairo:
Al-Azhar Mosque's grand Eid prayers and Islamic Cairo's historic ambiance.
Istanbul:
Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia Eid prayers, followed by traditional Turkish celebrations.
Luxury retreats and wellness
Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Santorini, Greece:
Private beaches, spas, and leisure sports for a rejuvenating Eid escape.
Banyan Tree AlUla, Saudi Arabia:
Opulent villas, private pools, and wellness retreats in the desert.
AlUla, Saudi Arabia
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Eid al-Adha 2025 Travel
When is Eid al-Adha 2025?
Dhu al Hijjah starts on Wednesday, May 28, the UAE Presidential Court confirmed, as the crescent moon was sighted in the UAE and Saudi Arabia and Oman on May 27. Keeping this in mind Eid Al Adha will take place on Friday, June 6 or the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah.
Switzerland
Which destinations are trending for Eid al-Adha 2025?
Popular destinations include Abha, Saudi Arabia; Dubai (UAE); Türkiye's Istanbul; Egypt's Sharm El Sheikh; Saudi Arabia's Al Ula; and destination cities in Europe such as Switzerland, France and Italy.
Istanbul, Türkiye
Are there any travel restrictions during Eid al-Adha 2025?
Yes. Saudi Arabia has issued strict visa regulations during Hajj and Eid which entails a temporary suspension of the issuance of Umrah visa and restricting entry to Makkah and Madinah to non Hajj pilgrims, it said. Entry requirements may vary, for other countries, so check with official sources before booking.
What are the best family-friendly Eid destinations?
Families love Dubai, Sharm El Sheik, Cairo and Bali, where they can find activities and cultural events suitable for kids, suitable for their needs and the kids not to mention the convenience of traveling.
How should I plan my Eid holiday to avoid high costs?
Booking flights and accommodations early, opting for travel group or family packages and even taking domestic staycations or regional escapes if necessary.
What adventure activities are available during Eid in Saudi Arabia?
You can zipline, go on dune buggy safaris, hiking, camping in the desert, boat rides or snorkel in the Red Sea. Quite a few are aimed at families, but always check age and safety requirements.
Can tourists visit Makkah or Madinah during Eid al-Adha?
No. During the Hajj period only Hajj pilgrims with approved visas may enter Makkah or parts of Madinah. During this time tourists must visit other Saudi cities.
What to carry when making a trip to Eid?
Pack comfortable clothing, sturdy footwear so that you won't have any kind of trouble in trekking or walking around, sunscreen, hats and water bottles. In case of activities specific gear is also required. Please make sure to always check local weather and activity requirements.
Tips for a smooth Eid al-Adha 2025 holiday
Book early:
Secure flights, hotels, and activities at least three weeks in advance to avoid price hikes and limited availability.
Check visa requirements:
Ensure you have the correct visa, especially for Saudi Arabia during Hajj and Eid.
Plan for crowds:
Popular destinations will be busy; plan itineraries to include both major attractions and quieter local experiences.
Embrace local traditions:
Participate in community events, try traditional foods, and explore local crafts for an authentic Eid experience.
Stay updated:
Follow official tourism and government websites for the latest travel advisories, festival schedules, and visa updates.
Final word
The coming Eid al Adha in 2025 will be a fortnight filled with holy pilgrimage, happy reunion with family and friends and one of the best experiences of your life. From the cool mountains of Abha to the cosmopolitan buzz of Dubai, Egypt's ancient wonders or bucket list escapes in Europe and Asia, Eid this year gives something to every traveller. Staying aware of the latest travel trends, showcasing envelopes with visa rules and seeing what's new at the destination will mean your Eid al-Adha holiday will be safe, fun and memorable.