QURBANI FAQS

What is Qurbani?

Qurbani means sacrifice. Qurbani is the act of sacrificing a suitable animal in the days of Eid ul-Adha. By performing Qurbani, believers commemorate the ultimate sacrifice of the Prophet Ibrahim (AS), who was willing to offer the sacrifice of his beloved son. Qurbani underlines the spirit of complete submission to Allah (SWT).

The Benefits of Giving Qurbani

Qurbani is a means of attaining closeness to Allah (SWT). The act of sacrifice is an expression of obedience and piety, which is valued highly by Allah (SWT). In words of the Quran:

“Their meat will not reach Allah, nor will their blood, but what reaches Him is piety from you. Thus have We subjected them to you that you may glorify Allah for that [to] which He has guided you; and give good tidings to the doers of good.” [22:37] 

In addition to spiritual benefits, Qurbani brings joy to those going through poverty. Some poor families only get to eat meat once a year and that is at the time of Eid ul-Adha.

Who Has to Give Qurbani? 

Qurbani is expected of those who meet the following criteria: 

• The individual must be an adult Muslim; 
• should be sane and of sound mind; 
• and their disposable income should exceed their essential needs. 

Can I Give Qurbani on Behalf of Someone Else?

Yes! It is permissible to give Qurbani on behalf of family members and loved ones. Although it is not obligatory, it is also possible to give Qurbani on behalf of someone who has passed away.

When to Give Qurbani?

Qurbani should be offered within a specific period of time for it to be valid. The time for Qurbani starts after Eid prayer on the 10th of Dhul Hijjah, the first day of Eid, and lasts until the12th of Dhul Hijjah. Eid Salah (prayers) should be performed before the slaughter.

This year, Qurbani in the UK is expected to take place on or near 16 or 17 June, depending on the sighting of the moon. It is important to make the necessary arrangements for your Qurbani to be offered at the correct time. Give your Qurbani in 2025 to UKIM and help feed those going through poverty this year.

Qurbani Animal Rules

Halal animals that are eligible for Qurbani are as follows:

• Goats (a minimum of one-year-old)
• Sheep (a minimum of one-year-old)
• Bulls, cows, and buffalo (a minimum of two-years-old)
• Camels (a minimum of five-years-old)

Animals for Qurbani must also be healthy and must not:

• Be blind or missing an eye.
• Be missing a third or more of their tail.
• Be missing a third or more of either ear.
• Have broken or damaged horns.
• Be lame or weak.
• Be missing the majority of their teeth.
• Have any broken bones.

How Many Shares Does Each Animal Have?

Each Qurbani animal has a set number of shares; each Muslim only needs one share to fulfil their obligation. The shares are as follows:

• Small animals - Sheep and goats (one share)
• Large animals - Bulls, cows, buffalo, and camels (seven shares)

How Much Qurbani Should I Give?

Qurbani prices fluctuate between countries. The cost is also affected by the type of animal you choose for your Qurbani and the number of shares you have. If you're unsure, you can contact us regarding Qurbani prices closer to the time.

How is Qurbani Distributed?

Qurbani meat should be distributed in three equal parts, as outlined below:

• One part for the Muslim performing Qurbani.
• A second part for their loved ones (family, close friends, and neighbours).
• The third and final part is for those in need.
• It is also permitted for a Muslim to give the full Qurbani meat in charity to the people who need it most.

What Time is Qurbani Performed?

Qurbani must be performed at the prescribed time, which begins after Eid prayer on the first day of Eid and lasts until the third day. Valid sacrifices are made during the 10th, 11th, or 12th day of Dhul Hijjah.

Can You Give Qurbani Online?

Yes. Many Muslims in the UK choose to give their Qurbani online. By donating your Qurbani to UK Islamic Mission, you can give the less fortunate Muslims the joy of Eid and a chance to have a nutritious meal. Learn more about how you can give Qurbani online here.

Can You Cut Your Hair Before Eid Prayer?

Those who give Qurbani should abstain from cutting their nails and hair in the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah until the slaughter has been done. According to a hadith:

“When the 10 days (of Dhul Hijjah) commence, and a person has a sacrificial animal, which he intends to slaughter, then let him not cut his hair or pare his nails.” (Muslim)

What is Eid ul-Adha?

Eid ul-Adha is the celebration that marks the completion of the Hajj pilgrimage. The festival is a time not just for celebration but also for thankfulness, remembrance, and worship. Through the act of Qurbani, believers extend their generosity and compassion to those in need around the world.

When is Qurbani in 2025?

Eid ul-Adha 2025 is expected to fall on or around 6 June. The actual dates will be determined by moon sighting nearer the time. Ask your local Imam if you need more information about Eid ul-Adha dates or moonsighting.

Eid ul-Adha Around the World

Different countries celebrate Eid ul-Adha according to their customs and traditions. Eid ul-Adha is usually a three-day event filled with festivities, prayers, and worship. After morning prayers and Qurbani, friends and family wish each other Eid Mubarak and exchange gifts. The believers dress in smart and traditional clothes to celebrate the day. While Muslim countries witness national holidays, the UK sees family events and funfairs arranged in some places for the joyous occasion.

You can find out more about Qurbani here. Give your Qurbani to UKIM and help provide vital food to vulnerable individuals across the world this Eid.