The Board of Qadis of the Caucasus Muslims Office (CMO) has issued an official fatwa regarding the upcoming Eid al-Adha (Qurban Bayram) celebrations. According to the Operative Information Center-OMM, calculations by the Shamakhi Astrophysical Observatory of the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences indicate that the crescent moon will be visible on the horizon of Azerbaijan, marking the start of Eid al-Adha on May 27 according to the Gregorian calendar.
In accordance with Islamic Sharia law, the ritual slaughter of sacrificial animals can begin on May 27 and continue for three days. Festive Eid prayers will be performed in mosques across Azerbaijan on the morning of May 27. The fatwa emphasizes that while sheep are traditionally preferred for sacrifice, goats, cows, and camels are also acceptable. The meat should be distributed freely, and the ritual must be performed under strict hygienic and sanitary conditions in designated areas. According to Sharia rules, the sacrificial animal must be healthy and free of physical defects; sick, thin, or injured animals are not permitted. Specific age limits apply: sheep and goats must be at least one year old, cattle must be over two years old, and camels must be at least five years old. The animal must face the Qibla, and the sacrifice must be performed in the name of God. The meat is traditionally divided into three parts: one for the family, one for the underprivileged, and one as gifts for relatives.
Eid al-Adha is one of the most significant holidays in the Islamic world, symbolizing devotion, charity, and solidarity. In Azerbaijan, the holiday is celebrated at the state level, reflecting the country's commitment to its multicultural and religious traditions. This year, the holiday coincides with Independence Day on May 28. Under the Labor Code of the Republic of Azerbaijan, since the holidays overlap, an additional day off has been granted on May 29. Consequently, for those on a five-day work week, May 27, 28, 29, 30, and 31 will be non-working days, providing a five-day holiday period in the capital Baku and across the regions.
