Feast of the Sacrifice (Eid al-Adha) in Western Sahara

A religious holiday in Sahrawi law

Article 142 of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic’s constitution includes Eid al-Adha among the religious holidays. Morocco’s official holiday page also places Eid al-Adha on the 10th of al-Hijja.[1][2]

Western Sahara’s political and administrative situation is unresolved, and Sahrawi people live in different settings, including refugee camps. The holiday’s practical arrangements depend on the local authority and place. Check locally with the relevant authority about leave, substitute days and public-service arrangements.[4]

Meaning and observance

Eid al-Adha is associated with the Hajj period and the religious rite of sacrifice. In a statement carried by Sahara Press Service, the Sahrawi Ministry of Religious Affairs and Original Education describes the sacrifice as a practice of worship and a way to show compassion and support within the community, including care for people in need.[2][3]

Sahrawi celebrations

Sahrawi reporting documents Eid prayers at a designated prayer ground, with a sermon and greetings among worshippers. Accounts also describe family visits and efforts to mend relationships as part of the celebration. These reports show practices observed in particular Sahrawi communities; they do not establish that every family celebrates in the same way.[5]

In the refugee camps, a reported Eid-season initiative distributed sacrificial animals to families described as needy and to orphans. The ministry has emphasized moderation in spending and helping poorer households.[3][6]

What to expect locally

Eid al-Adha is listed as a two-day public holiday in Western Sahara, with no substitute day shown. The constitutional text confirms its religious-holiday designation.[1]

Check locally for opening hours or closures for offices, banks, shops, schools and transport, particularly where services are managed by different authorities.[4]