Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – The announcement of Friday, June 6, as the first day of Eid Al Adha has sparked excitement among Muslims worldwide. This deeply personal and meaningful celebration holds a special place in the hearts of many believers.
For 26-year-old Aniza Saidil Daimon, a Filipina Muslim born in Puerto Princesa and raised in Cavite, the upcoming Eid Al Adha marks her first time celebrating this important holiday in a Muslim country. Living in the UAE has brought her closer to the rich Islamic traditions she has long admired.
Experiencing Eid Al Adha in a New Home
Daimon shared that waking up to the adhan, the call to prayer, on Eid Al Adha is more than just a holiday; it’s the fulfillment of a lifelong dream. “I’m honestly so excited. There’s this new kind of energy building up in me, knowing I’ll finally experience Eid in a country that truly lives and breathes it. I’ve always imagined what it’s like to see the streets filled with the spirit of Eid, the prayers, the lights, the togetherness and now, Subhanallah (Glory be to God), I’m here,” she expressed.
Eid Al Adha, also called the Festival of Sacrifice, is one of the two main Islamic holidays, the other being Eid Al Fitr. It honors Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail as an act of obedience to Allah. Just before the sacrifice, Allah provided a ram to be sacrificed instead.
New Beginnings in the UAE
Since arriving in the UAE on March 11, 2025, Daimon has embraced a life filled with hope, faith, and discovery. She currently works as a classroom assistant in Fujairah Emirate, about three hours from Abu Dhabi.
“What brought me here was a mix of hope, faith, and the desire to grow personally and spiritually. I’ve always dreamed of living where I could freely practice my faith and be surrounded by people who understand it. Now that I’m here, it still feels surreal,” she said.
Meaning of Eid Al Adha and Qurbani Ritual
For Daimon, Eid Al Adha is more than a festive occasion; it symbolizes trust and surrender to Allah. As she prepares spiritually, she focuses on prayers, reflection, and striving to improve not just during Eid but daily.
Though she misses her family back home, she looks forward to celebrating Eid with relatives and friends in Abu Dhabi. A highlight for her is the Qurbani, the ritual animal sacrifice performed to honor Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion.
Qurbani means sacrifice in Arabic and involves slaughtering specific animals such as goats, sheep, cows, or camels following Islamic law. The meat is then divided equally: one-third for the family, one-third for friends and relatives, and one-third for those in need.
“The Qurbani, or animal sacrifice, is also very powerful. It’s a reminder that sacrifice isn’t just about giving up something but also about sharing and caring for others, especially those in need. It teaches me to be more generous and thankful for what I have,” Daimon explained.
Feeling at Home Despite the Distance
Reflecting on the difference between celebrating Eid in the Philippines and the UAE, Daimon feels a deep sense of belonging. “In the Philippines, it’s simpler and more intimate. But here, you can feel the spirit of Eid everywhere—in the mosques, the streets, and even in strangers’ smiles. It’s beautiful in a different way,” she said.
Her cousin, who is active in the Filipino Muslim community in Abu Dhabi, shared how they’ve helped make her feel welcome. “Celebrating her first Eid Al Adha away from home is a big adjustment, and I wanted to make sure she didn’t feel alone or out of place. From the moment she arrived, we tried to make her feel that even though she’s far from the Philippines, she’s still surrounded by family,” he said.
They shared stories, cooked familiar dishes, and introduced her to local community traditions. “It’s heartwarming to see her slowly finding her rhythm and embracing life in the UAE,” he added.
He emphasized that Eid is about togetherness and reflection, and celebrating it with a loved one far from home adds a deeper meaning. “We may be miles away from home, but we make our own version of home together,” he said.
For more news and updates on Eid Al Adha, visit Filipinokami.com.