His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Bahrain’s Crown Prince and Prime Minister, has issued a circular concerning the Arafah and Eid al-Adha holidays.
According to the circular, all ministries and public institutions in the Kingdom will be closed on the day of Arafah, as well as on Eid al-Adha, which falls on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from June 5 to June 8. Since the official holidays occur on a Friday and Saturday, they will be compensated with additional days off on Monday and Tuesday, June 9 and 10.
Eid al-Adha traditions in Bahrain are vibrant and community-focused. Prayers are held at prominent mosques, such as Al Fateh Grand Mosque in Manama and the Ahmed Al Fateh Islamic Centre. A key aspect of the celebration is Qurbani (sacrifice), where families distribute meat to those in need, often organized through charities like the Royal Charity Organization or Beit Al Quran.
Festive feasts feature traditional dishes, including machboos, a spiced rice dish with meat, hiris, a wheat and meat porridge, and sweets like halwa.
The occasion is also marked by the exchange of Eidiya, which are monetary gifts given to children, alongside family visits.
Read more | Eid al-Adha 2025: Top travel spots, cultural festivities, and visa tips for families
Family-friendly activities
During Eid 2025, Bahrain offers numerous places to visit. Cultural and historical sites include Qal’at al-Bahrain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that will have Eid-themed night tours, and the Bahrain National Museum, which showcases Islamic history and hosts seasonal workshops.
The Tree of Life, a mysterious 400-year-old tree in the desert, is perfect for sunset visits, while Bab Al Bahrain serves as an iconic gateway to Manama Souq, bustling with Eid markets and traditional crafts.
For family-friendly attractions, WahooO! Waterpark will feature Eid discounts and special night sessions, and Al Areen Wildlife Park offers various family activities and wildlife encounters.
The Dolphin Resort will celebrate with beachside events and firework displays.
Spiritual sites such as Al Khamis Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in the Gulf, will provide historical tours, and the Baital Quran Museum will exhibit rare Qurans and Islamic artifacts.
Eid al-Adha 2025 will also feature a range of events and activities, including fireworks displays expected at Bahrain Bay and Marina Corniche from June 5 to 7.
Eid markets will be held at Manama Souq, showcasing traditional sweets, henna artists, and handicrafts, while Moda Mall will offer luxury shopping and Eid-themed pop-ups. Cultural festivals like the Spring of Culture Festival are likely to coincide with Eid, featuring music and art, and the Bahrain International Garden Show will include floral displays and family workshops.
Additionally, charity drives will invite volunteers to assist with organizations such as Bahrain Red Crescent for Qurbani distributions.
