Eid al-Adha, the Festival of Sacrifice, is one of the most significant occasions in the Islamic calendar, observed worldwide with prayer, community and tradition. Here is what to know about welcoming and celebrating Eid al-Adha 2027 in Morocco.
Eid al-Adha 2027 expected date
Eid al-Adha 2027 is expected to fall around Sunday, 16 May 2027 in Morocco, with Monday, 17 May 2027 as a likely alternate. This date is an estimate only and remains subject to the official moon sighting.
Morocco conducts its own independent crescent sighting through the Ministry of Habous and Islamic Affairs, so its date can differ by a day from Saudi Arabia and other countries. The official date will not be confirmed until the moon is sighted closer to the time.
How the Eid al-Adha date is determined
Eid al-Adha begins on the 10th day of Dhū al-Ḥijjah, the twelfth and final month of the Islamic lunar calendar, following the culmination of the Hajj pilgrimage. As with Eid al-Fitr, the timing hinges on the sighting of the new crescent moon.
In Morocco, the date is established by physical moon sighting rather than astronomical calculation. The Ministry of Habous and Islamic Affairs gathers testimony from observers across the kingdom before officially announcing the start of Dhū al-Ḥijjah and the day of Eid.
Eid al-Adha public holiday in Morocco
In Morocco, Eid al-Adha is typically recognised as a public holiday, with most schools and businesses closed. The official 2027 holiday dates have not yet been announced and will follow the confirmed moon sighting.
If you are planning to travel around the holiday, it is worth booking early, as demand tends to rise. You can compare flights to Casablanca and flights to Marrakech, and browse hotels in Marrakech and hotels in Casablanca on Wego.
How is Eid al-Adha celebrated in Morocco?
The morning begins with the Takbir, a proclamation of the greatness of God observed by Muslims during Eid. Families rise early, donning the traditional Moroccan attire of the “Jellaba” and “al-Balgha” for the special Eid prayer, typically held in mosques or open spaces.
After the prayer, greetings of “Eid Mubarak” are exchanged and families return home for a breakfast of traditional Moroccan pastries and mint tea. Preparations for the animal sacrifice then begin, conducted in accordance with Islamic ritual.
The meat is traditionally divided into three parts: one for the family, one for friends and neighbours, and one for those in need. Some choose to donate the entire animal to the less fortunate.
The sacrifice becomes the focal point of Eid al-Adha feasts, with an array of traditional Moroccan dishes served across the three-day celebration:
- Boulfaf, tkelia and brain in spiced tomato sauce
- Grilled shoulder meat marinated in chermoula
- Mrouzia, a sweet and savoury lamb dish
- Mechoui, slow-roasted lamb or goat, often the centrepiece
- Side dishes such as zaalouk, salad and marinated olives, served with bread and tea
Eid al-Adha prayer time in Morocco
The Eid al-Adha prayer is typically observed in open fields where Muslims congregate to mark the Day of Sacrifice. It is usually held around 10 to 15 minutes after sunrise, with the exact time announced locally closer to the day.
Travellers can keep an eye on arrivals and departures around the holiday using Wego’s flight tracking tool.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Eid al-Adha 2027 in Morocco?
It is expected to fall around Sunday, 16 May 2027, with Monday, 17 May as a likely alternate. The date is an estimate and remains subject to Morocco’s official moon sighting.
Why might Morocco’s Eid date differ from Saudi Arabia’s?
Morocco conducts its own independent crescent moon sighting. The Ministry of Habous and Islamic Affairs uses physical observation, so the date can differ by a day from other countries.
Is Eid al-Adha a public holiday in Morocco?
Yes, it is typically a public holiday. Most schools and businesses close, though the official 2027 dates have not yet been announced.
What foods are eaten during Eid al-Adha in Morocco?
Dishes centre on the sacrifice meat. Popular options include mechoui (slow-roasted lamb), mrouzia, chermoula-marinated grilled meat, and sides such as zaalouk and marinated olives.
Sources
- Ministry of Habous and Islamic Affairs — Official moon sighting authority
- Maghreb Arabe Presse (MAP) — Official Moroccan news agency
- Hespress — Morocco moon sighting and Eid coverage
Disclaimer: Wego strives to ensure all information presented in this article is accurate and up to date at the time of publication. Travel policies, prices, visa requirements, and conditions can change rapidly. We strongly recommend verifying critical details with official sources before making travel decisions. Wego does not accept liability for any inaccuracies, oversights, or changes that may occur after publication.
