Eid-ul-Fitr, one of the most significant festivals for Muslims worldwide, will be celebrated across Russia tomorrow, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan. This joyous occasion, also known as the “Festival of Breaking the Fast,” brings together millions of Muslims living across various regions of Russia, from Moscow and Saint Petersburg to Kazan, Dagestan, and the Volga-Ural regions.
Despite Russia being a predominantly Christian-majority country, Islam is the second-largest religion, and Eid is widely celebrated with both enthusiasm and cultural richness.
When is Eid-ul-Fitr 2025 in Russia?
This year, Eid-ul-Fitr 2025 in Russia falls on March 30, 2025 (Sunday). The exact date was confirmed after the official moon sighting in several parts of Russia and neighboring countries.
Eid Prayer Time in Russia
The Eid prayer, also called Salat al-Eid, is traditionally offered shortly after sunrise. In major cities like Moscow, Kazan, Ufa, and Makhachkala, official Islamic centers and mosques have announced the following tentative timings:
Moscow: 7:00 AM to 7:30 AM
Kazan: 7:00 AM
Saint Petersburg: 7:15 AM
Ufa: 6:45 AM
Makhachkala: 6:30 AM
It is advised to reach your local mosque at least 30 to 45 minutes early due to large gatherings and security arrangements. Many mosques also organize multiple prayer sessions to accommodate the crowd.
Check with your local mosque or Islamic center for the exact timing in your city.
How is Eid Celebrated in Russia?
Eid celebrations in Russia beautifully blend Islamic traditions with local customs. Here is how Russian Muslims typically celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr:
1. Special Eid Prayers
Muslims gather in large congregations at mosques, prayer grounds, and public parks. Iconic mosques like the Moscow Cathedral Mosque, one of the largest mosques in Europe, host thousands of worshippers. The prayers are followed by the Eid Khutbah (sermon), where imams emphasize unity, gratitude, and charity.
2. Zakat al-Fitr (Charity Before Eid Prayer)
Before performing the Eid prayer, Muslims are required to give Zakat al-Fitr, a charitable donation meant to ensure that even the less fortunate can celebrate Eid with dignity. In Russia, various Islamic organizations organize donation drives during Ramadan, which continue until the Eid prayer.
3. Festive Meals and Gatherings
After a month of fasting, Russian Muslims prepare elaborate feasts featuring traditional dishes such as plov (pilaf), samsa, manty, halal kebabs, chak-chak (Tatar sweet), and beshbarmak. Families and friends gather to enjoy meals, exchange gifts, and greet each other with Eid Mubarak.
4. Visiting Loved Ones and Cemeteries
It is customary to visit the graves of deceased relatives and offer prayers. Many also take time to visit elders, neighbors, and friends to exchange greetings and food.
5. Cultural Programs and Community Events
In cities like Kazan, Ufa, and Grozny, Eid is often marked by cultural fairs, traditional folk performances, children’s activities, and community gatherings. Local governments sometimes arrange Eid bazaars, food festivals, and open-air concerts to make the festival more vibrant.
6. Dressing in Traditional and Festive Attire
Wearing new or traditional clothes is an essential part of Eid in Russia. Men often wear jubba or kurta, while women adorn themselves with beautiful hijabs, dresses, and traditional jewelry. Some regions like Tatarstan and Dagestan also showcase distinctive regional costumes.
7. Eid Greetings in Russia
Muslims in Russia commonly greet each other by saying:
Eid Mubarak! (Blessed Eid)
S prazdnikom Uraza-Bayram! (Russian for Happy Eid)
Bayram belän! (In Tatar language)
Significance of Eid in Russia
Eid in Russia is not just a religious festival but also a display of the country’s cultural diversity and religious harmony. The celebration brings together people from various ethnic backgrounds such as Tatars, Bashkirs, Chechens, Dagestanis, and other Muslim communities.
The Russian government, in many regions, also recognizes Eid as a public holiday, especially in Muslim-majority republics like Tatarstan, Bashkortostan, Chechnya, and Dagestan.
Tips for Non-Muslims
If you are a non-Muslim living in Russia, feel free to greet your Muslim friends with Eid Mubarak and, if invited, join them for their festive meals. It is seen as a kind and respectful gesture.
