What is Qurbani (Udhiyah)? — Eid ul-Adha 2026
Qurbani is the act of sacrificing an animal during Eid al-Adha (the Festival of Sacrifice) to honor the legacy of Prophet Ibrahim (AS). Allah says in the Quran: "So pray to your Lord and sacrifice [to Him alone]." (Surah Al-Kawthar, 108:2)
It is performed on the 10th, 11th, or 12th of Dhul Hijjah, after the Eid prayer. In 2026, Eid ul-Adha is expected on May 27, 2026. The meat is distributed among family, friends, and the poor.
Who Must Perform Qurbani?
The obligation of Qurbani depends on the Islamic school of thought you follow:
- Hanafi: Qurbani is Wajib (obligatory) upon every sane, adult Muslim who possesses wealth equal to or above the Nisab on the days of Eid. Each eligible person in the household must perform their own Qurbani.
- Shafi'i, Maliki, Hanbali: urbani is Sunnah Muakkadah (strongly recommended). One sacrifice per household is sufficient.
- Jafari (Shia / Ehl-e-Tashi): Qurbani is Mustahab (highly recommended) but not Wajib for those who are not performing Hajj. For pilgrims on Hajj, it is obligatory.
Which Animals Can Be Sacrificed?
| Animal | Minimum Age | Shares |
|---|---|---|
| Goat | 1 year | 1 person |
| Sheep / Ram | 6 months (Jadha'ah) | 1 person |
| Cow / Bull | 2 years | Up to 7 people |
| Buffalo | 2 years | Up to 7 people |
| Camel | 5 years | Up to 7 people |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I share a cow with 7 people?▼
Yes. A cow, buffalo, or camel can be shared among up to 7 people, where each person's share counts as one complete Qurbani. All 7 people must have the intention of Qurbani (not just meat).
Can I perform Qurbani for deceased relatives?▼
Yes, it is permissible to perform Qurbani on behalf of deceased relatives. The reward will reach them. If it is a voluntary gift (Nafl), the family can consume the meat. If it is from a will (Wasiyyah), the meat must be distributed to the poor.
What should I do with the Qurbani meat?▼
The Sunnah is to divide the meat into three parts: one-third for your family, one-third as gifts for relatives and friends, and one-third for the poor and needy. You may also give all of it in charity.
What are the Qurbani rules for Overseas Pakistanis?▼
Overseas Pakistanis can validly send money to charities or family to perform Qurbani in Pakistan on their behalf. The slaughter must occur during the Eid days (10th-12th Dhul Hijjah) according to the local time in Pakistan, not the donor's country.
How is meat divided when sharing a cow (Hanafi)?▼
When up to 7 people share a cow, the meat must be divided equally by weight, not just by estimation. Once divided, each shareholder can distribute their portion according to the Sunnah.
Fiqh Disclaimer & References
Fiqh rulings can be nuanced depending on personal circumstances. While this information is thoroughly researched based on major Sunni (Hanafi, Shafi'i) and Shia (Jafari) schools, we strongly advise consulting with a local scholar or your specific Marja' for complex fatwas. References include: Radd al-Muhtar (Hanafi), Sistani.org (Jafari).