MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, SAUDI ARABIA – For many Indonesian students in Saudi Arabia, Eid al-Adha is a quieter and more personal occasion. According to Chairperson of the Muhammadiyah Special Branch (PCIM) of Saudi Arabia, Hanif Asaduddin, the holiday often falls during the students’ long academic break that many of them return to Indonesia.
“During this time, universities provide return tickets for up to three months, so most students go home,” said Hanif on Wednesday, June 4.
This situation affects how PCIM members celebrate the holiday. Those who stay are mostly in Mecca, while a few others in Medina observe it privately or in small groups.
“We don’t have large gatherings because many members are also assigned to help Indonesian Hajj pilgrims in Mecca,” added Hanif.
A Different Atmosphere and Strict Rules
Hanif also noted that Eid al-Adha in Saudi Arabia is culturally different from the lively celebrations in Indonesia. In Saudi Arabia, the focus is more on personal worship rather than community events.
“Communal Eid takbir only happens briefly after dawn and before the Eid prayer. In Medina, our members typically perform the Eid prayer at al-Masjid al-Nabawi (the Prophet’s Mosque) rather than organizing a separate prayer with other PCIM members,” explained Hanif.
Besides, Saudi regulations also shape how the holiday is observed, especially regarding animal sacrifice. Unlike in Indonesia, where slaughtering is done at mosques and shared among neighbors, Saudi law only allows it at certified slaughterhouses.
“Animal sacrifice can’t be performed privately here. It must be carried out by certified personnel at a licensed slaughterhouse. Most people choose an animal, have it slaughtered at the facility, and bring the meat home,” said Hanif.
Public celebrations following the Eid prayer are rare. Most families observe the holiday privately, and international students often find few organized community events.
“The Saudi government doesn’t permit large public gatherings unless they’re officially sanctioned or hosted by universities,” said Hanif.
