Eid al-Adha in Saudi Arabia is marked by many traditions and festive activities that reflect Saudi culture and religious values. The occasion coincides with the Hajj pilgrimage in Makkah, where Muslims from around the world gather to perform the fifth pillar of Islam.

If you live in Saudi Arabia, you are in for a memorable Eid al-Adha holiday thanks to the many events taking place across the Kingdom's regions. Here is what is on offer.

The Saudi Supreme Court announced on Sunday evening that the Day of Arafah would fall on Tuesday, June 27, and that Wednesday would be the first day of Eid al-Adha.

With the holiday under way, people have started looking for places to spend time and enjoy themselves with family and friends.

Here are some events and places in Saudi Arabia to brighten your holiday.

Celebrating Eid al-Adha in Saudi Arabia
After the Hajj rites, people in Saudi Arabia celebrate the days of Eid with a range of events and activities. The highlight is the Eid prayer, held in large mosques and designated open spaces in cities across the Kingdom. Crowds gather to pray together, and the imam delivers an Eid sermon full of lessons and religious guidance.

Visiting relatives and friends is a common custom during Eid al-Adha, as people exchange greetings, give gifts and share meals. People also distribute the meat of sacrificial animals to families in need, the poor and the most disadvantaged communities.

In addition, many shopping centers, parks and amusement parks organize special Eid al-Adha events, including entertainment shows, traditional games, competitions and musical and cultural performances. These events aim to add joy to the festive atmosphere and encourage families and children to enjoy this happy season.

Eid al-Adha 2023 Events in Saudi Arabia
Fireworks

Fireworks displays are held in various regions of Saudi Arabia, adding to the celebrations and setting the stage for the many other events that accompany residents throughout the Eid al-Adha holiday.

Diplomatic Quarter Garden Parties
Garden parties are held in the Diplomatic Quarter in Riyadh throughout the days of Eid.

Eid Entertainment Carnival
During the Eid al-Adha holiday, the Eid Entertainment Carnival in Riyadh features marine shows, live performances and folk troupes.

Open Day
One of the best-known events held in the capital, Riyadh, during Eid al-Adha.

Aseel Abu Bakr Concert
June 26 at the King Khalid University theater.

Hadi Valentine Play
June 29 and July 1 in Abha.

Mimo Play
June 30 and July 2 in Hail.

Gamers8 Season, Riyadh
Look out for Rabeh Saqr's concert at Gamers8 2023, the opening concert of the eagerly awaited season.

The Journey of Writing and Calligraphy Exhibition
The exhibition highlights the spiritual dimension of calligraphy in Arab-Islamic civilization through a collection of historical, classical and contemporary works of art.

Places and Entertainment Activities in Saudi Arabia
Boulevard Riyadh City, Riyadh

One of the most visited areas for tourists, with nine zones full of activities and events, shops and restaurants. It caters to all tastes and ages.

AlUla

A stunning region where mountains are surrounded by sand dunes glowing in the sunlight. It attracts lovers of hiking, climbing and camping. Its landmarks include:

Elephant Rock, surrounded by golden sands in the middle of the AlUla desert, is an ideal spot for desert sports and mountain climbing, and visitors can enjoy the area's breathtaking scenery. AlUla also hosts several activities, such as a cyclists' gathering, rappelling from mountain peaks, the Hidden Valley trail, the Via Ferrata experience and the Valley Hammock.

Al-Ahsa

Its Arabic name refers to the sound of water flowing underground. It is the largest oasis region in the world and a UNESCO-recognized heritage site, with many destinations where visitors can spend their time, including:

Al Qaisariya Souk

It includes several towers, palaces and mosques, as well as more than 422 shops.

King Abdullah Environmental Park

It hosts many activities throughout the year, including fountain shows, football pitches, mazes and theaters.

Al-Ahsa National Museum

Located in Hofuf, the museum houses a diverse collection of artifacts dating back to the Stone Age and the Babylonian and Assyrian eras.

Al Qarah Mountain

An ideal spot for outings and camping, where visitors can explore the mountain's remarkable caves.

Al Uqair Beach

Visitors can try many water activities, such as water skiing, surfing, sailing and fishing. Horse riding is also available, and many competitions are held on the beach.

Jeddah, Bride of the Red Sea

Jeddah has many places worth visiting. The city is famous for its beautiful Red Sea beaches and the seaside promenade, where visitors can watch stunning sunsets, as well as many family-friendly spots.

King Fahd Fountain

Also known as the Jeddah Fountain, it sits on the coast and reaches a height of 1,024 feet. It can be seen from most parts of Jeddah and is lit by hundreds of lights at night.

The Floating Mosque

Also known as the Fatima Al-Zahra Mosque, it is built on pillars set under the water, giving it the appearance of floating on the sea. Visitors may tour it while respecting the sanctity of the place and not disturbing worshippers.

Desert Safari Trips

Among the most popular activities in Jeddah for young people are desert safaris, camel and horse rides and camping in the desert among the sand dunes and mountains.

Al Shiraa Island, Jeddah

Suitable for families and children, the island has a dedicated sand play area and a PlayStation zone, and visitors can also play sports such as hockey and billiards.

Diving

The Red Sea is one of the richest seas in coral reefs and diverse marine life. Do not miss the chance to dive and see this remarkable world.

Jeddah Souk

Jeddah Souk lies directly south of King Fahd Road, and each street in the market specializes in selling a particular kind of goods.

Atallah Happy Land Park

Ice inside and hot weather outside: the park offers a great skating experience, along with many stage shows, shopping and a choice of restaurants.