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Rabat – The Moroccan government has announced an exceptional public holiday for public administrations and local authorities on Friday, 29 May, following Eid Al Adha celebrations this year. Eid Al Adha will be observed on Wednesday, 27 May, with Thursday also a public holiday.
This kind of decision is not unusual in Morocco. When Eid Al Adha falls close to the weekend, the government often adds an extra day off to create a longer break. The aim is to allow citizens more time to travel, visit family members, and spend the holiday in better conditions, especially for those who live far from their hometowns.
This extended break also helps reduce pressure on transport and gives families more flexibility to celebrate together.
Eid Al Adha, also known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” is one of the most important religious celebrations in Islam. It commemorates the story of Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God.
Muslim families around the world mark the occasion by performing the ritual sacrifice of a sheep or other livestock, sharing the meat with family, neighbors, and people in need. The holiday is also a major social event in Morocco, where family gatherings, visits, and shared meals play a central role.
However, this year’s celebrations come amid growing concern among many Moroccans over the high cost of livestock. Prices of sheep, in particular, have increased significantly, which makes it difficult for some families to afford the traditional sacrifice.
Many citizens have expressed frustration on social media and in public discussions, saying the cost has become a heavy burden compared to previous years and that government policies have proven ineffective.
