As Eid Al Adha 2025 nears, Muslim families across the Arab world are grappling with surging sheep prices, making traditional sacrificial rituals difficult for many. From Sudan to the UAE, economic pressures, inflation, and regional conflicts are forcing families to adapt or scale back celebrations.
In Sudan and Yemen, sacrificial sheep remain the most affordable, averaging $200–$220. Despite economic hardships, strong livestock supply in these countries keeps prices relatively stable. However, in places like Palestine and Algeria, costs have skyrocketed. In the West Bank, sheep now average $850—a 25% rise from last year—due to war, unemployment, and livestock shortages. Algeria faces similar challenges, with prices around $755, despite government efforts to import sheep.
In Libya, prices range between $530–$640, driven by high feed costs and currency shortages. In Gulf countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia, prices hover between $460–$490, mainly due to high demand and reliance on imports. Qatar is an exception, keeping costs near $356 with subsidies.
Egypt, Jordan, and Iraq see mid-range pricing, averaging between $302 and $381. In Syria and Mauritania, prices remain lower—around $235 and $278—but fragile economies and drought are raising concerns. As a result, many families are turning to alternatives like shared sacrifices, NGO-run meat distributions, and symbolic offerings to preserve the spiritual significance of the festival. Despite the changing landscape, the essence of Eid Al Adha remains alive, reflecting faith and resilience across the region.