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"It is the Sunnah of your father Ibrahim (AS). For every hair of the Qurbani you receive a reward from Allah (SWT)."
The Prophet (PBUH) - (Hadith - Trimidhi)
We’re aware that Qurbani is an act of worship in Islam, and that it is carried out during the time of Eid al-Adha. However, what exactly is Qurbani, and why is it so important to Muslims around the world? With Qurbani Eid 2026 quickly approaching, this Qurbani Guide by UK Islamic Mission aims to help you understand what Qurbani is, why it’s important, and how UKIM can help you fulfil this duty.
So what is Qurbani? In simple terms, Qurbani is the sacrifice of an animal during the time of Eid al-Adha. It is important to note that Qurbani in itself is more than just a ritual. It is a reminder of obedience and devotion, and ultimately the test of faith and trust in Allah. It is carried out for the sake of Allah, and in remembrance of the devotion of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), who was willing to sacrifice his son in submission to Allah.
Through Qurbani, believers are able to show their willingness to give up something for the sake of Allah, along with supporting those in need by sharing the meat of the sacrificed animal.
It is best to plan ahead with your Qurbani so that your duty is fulfilled in a timely manner. To begin with, it’s key to note when Qurbani Eid 2026 is. In the UK, Eid al-Adha 2026 is expected to begin on the evening of 27 May 2026; however, this can only be confirmed upon the sighting of the moon.
Qurbani begins to take place after the morning Eid prayer and can be performed over the following three days. Any sacrifice before or after this period is deemed invalid.
So why is Qurbani important? Qurbani is a means to connect with our faith. It teaches sincerity along with compassion for others and reminds us of the story of Ibrahim (AS) and the submission he made to the command of Allah.
It has been narrated that the Messenger of Allah (Peace be Upon Him) said:
“It is the Sunnah of your father Ibrahim.”
The intention behind your Qurbani is what matters most. Allah says in the Quran:
“It is neither their meat nor their blood that reaches Allah, but it is your piety that reaches Him.” [Quran 22:37]
Many questions arise around who needs to pay for Qurbani. The sacrifice is required to be given by every adult Muslim who is sane and financially able. The Hanafi School of thought deems it obligatory upon those who meet a certain level of wealth, whereas other Schools of Thought say it’s a highly recommended Sunnah to give Qurbani. Each person who is eligible must give their own individual Qurbani. People may wish to complete a Qurbani on behalf of their loved ones, such as their children or someone who isn’t able to give it. Doing this is absolutely fine as long as their own individual Qurbani is given first.
The Qurbani price depends on the country in which the sacrifice will take place and the animal chosen for sacrifice. UK Islamic Mission carry out the sacrifice on behalf of those who donate, also giving the option to donors on the location and animal they’d like to go for. Upon sacrifice, UKIM then distribute the meat of the animal to those in need in the area that’s been selected.
By giving Qurbani, you are fulfilling an important act of worship, along with helping families and communities who may not have access to meat throughout the year. For most of these vulnerable families, Eid al-Adha is the only time they have the opportunity to enjoy a nutritious meal together.
Your Qurbani has the chance to bring joy and dignity, and relief to those who are most in need.
The time and method of Qurbani are crucial. Qurbani can only take place between a certain period of time, which is after the morning Eid prayer (10th Dhul Hijjah) and the evening of the 13th Dhul Hijjah. Anything before or after that time is deemed invalid. It has been narrated that the Prophet (Peace be Upon Him) has also clearly instructed that any sacrifice done before the Eid prayer does not count as Qurbani and must be repeated.
Donate your Qurbani today through UK Islamic Mission and fulfil the duty of sacrifice in the name of Allah.
Yes, you can give Qurbani on behalf of another person, including deceased loved ones, after giving your individual one first.
No, you do not have to carry out the sacrifice yourself. You can donate to a charity such as UK Islamic Mission who can perform it on your behalf.
The meat is divided and distributed to those in need, making sure that vulnerable families can benefit from your donation and celebrate the day of Eid with dignity.
Qurbani is an act of worship which requires the sacrifice of an animal. Giving money alone does not replace it. You can donate money through a charity with the intention of Qurbani so that the charity can carry out the Qurbani on your behalf, but a simple Sadaqah donation will not be accepted.
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