With less than a week to go for Eid Al Adha, residents in the UAE are visiting the Sharjah livestock market early to compare prices, breeds and sacrificial procedures ahead of the expected festive rush.
Traders said demand has picked up, with goat prices varying based on breed, origin and weight. Prices currently range from about Dh800 to Dh2,200, while Somali goats are selling between Dh1,000 and Dh2,000. Indian goats, which remain in high demand, are priced from around Dh900 to Dh1,600 and above.
Traders also said Indian livestock is now being imported by air cargo due to shipping disruptions, replacing earlier sea shipments that took several days and contributing to slightly higher prices this year. Most families are budgeting around Dh1,000 to Dh1,500 per goat, according to market estimates.
Market activity is expected to peak on Arafat Day and the first day of Eid, when thousands of residents typically visit. Officials said residents living in apartments can pre-book animals, which can be kept in market pens for one to two days before slaughter.
After sacrifice, the process—from slaughtering to cleaning and packaging—usually takes about 20 to 25 minutes, though waiting times are expected to rise during peak hours.
Sharjah market authorities said preparations have been completed in coordination with Sharjah Police and Sharjah Municipality. New measures include a tracking system for orders, dedicated walkways, expanded waiting areas, and increased staff to manage hygiene and congestion. The market will remain open after Eid prayers on the first day until 10pm.