MAKKAH, April 1, 2025 – The Grand Mosque is filled with an atmosphere of love, diversity, and joy as pilgrims from all over the world gather to celebrate Eid in this unique spiritual setting.
The first day of Eid began with dawn prayers at the mosque, where large crowds of worshippers in white ihram garments—representing unity and renunciation of worldly concerns—came together in devotion.
Pilgrims exchanged heartfelt congratulations and prayers, asking Allah to accept their worship and bless them in the year ahead.
After the Eid prayer, celebrations spread across Makkah’s streets, as pilgrims expressed their joy with prayers and greetings in many languages, reflecting the cultural diversity of the Grand Mosque and fostering an atmosphere of deep spiritual peace.
Many pilgrims took the opportunity to complete their Umrah rituals or perform Tawaf (circumambulation) around the Kaaba.
The festivities blended both religious practices and social activities. After prayers and circumambulation, some pilgrims visited sacred sites such as Jabal Al-Noor (Mountain of Light) and the Cave of Hira, while others explored Makkah’s lively markets to buy gifts and souvenirs.
The markets buzzed with activity as worshippers purchased prayer beads, Qur’ans, oud, and traditional Makkah sweets.
Nasser Bukhari, a clothing merchant in the central district, noted that pilgrims proudly wore attire from their home countries, turning the Grand Mosque into a vibrant display of Islamic diversity.