With Eid Al Adha approaching, cattle markets in Dubai and Sharjah are bustling with activity as traders respond to the rising demand for sacrificial animals. Goats, sheep, and cows from countries like Australia, India, Pakistan, and Somalia are being sold at higher prices than usual due to the festive season.
Prices for these animals vary significantly. Goats, for instance, are being sold for anywhere between Dh500 to Dh1,400. “Somalian goats weighing 7 kg are priced at approximately Dh500, with larger goats of the same breed weighing up to 15 kg and costing around Dh800,” said Mohammed Ateeq from Al Khammas Livestock Trading in Al Qusais. He added that Indian goats start at Dh800 for an 8kg goat, with prices reaching up to Dh1,200 for larger sizes.
Eid Al Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, honors the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to Allah. In this spirit, Muslims around the world sacrifice a goat, sheep, ox, or camel, distributing the meat among family, friends, and those in need.
Market Dynamics and Future Price Predictions
Currently, Dubai markets have received the first batch of sacrificial animals, with more expected early next month. Traders anticipate that prices might drop once the additional batches arrive. “We received the first batch last week and expect another in two weeks. By June 10, we will have the final batch, which may lead to a price drop depending on demand and supply,” said Irshad Ahmed of Al Ittihad Livestock Trading.
At present, only Indian and Somalian goats are available, with the Pakistani breed expected next week. There is also a notable demand for oxen, as people are seeking larger quantities of meat. “Prices for goats and oxen have increased,” said Ismail Sheikh, an oxen trader in Al Qusais Livestock Market. “Oxen prices start at Dh4,000 for those weighing over 150 kg, reaching up to Dh8,000 for the larger ones.”