How many rak'ahs is Eid prayer?

Eid prayer is 2 rak'ahs. There are no fard rak'ahs before or after Eid prayer itself — unlike Jummah. The imam recites aloud in both rak'ahs with extra takbeers (Allahu Akbar) before the recitation.

How many extra takbeers in Eid prayer?

In the Hanafi school: 3 extra takbeers in the first rak'ah (before recitation) and 3 in the second (after rising from ruku, before recitation) — 7 total beyond the opening takbir. Shafi'i/Maliki/Hanbali: 7 in the first rak'ah and 5 in the second. Follow your imam in congregation.

Is Eid prayer obligatory?

Eid prayer is Wajib (obligatory) according to the Hanafi school and strongly emphasised Sunnah Mu'akkadah according to the other three schools. All agree it should not be missed without excuse. Women, children, and travellers may attend.

🎉 Eid guide

How to Pray Eid

Eid al-Fitr (after Ramadan) and Eid al-Adha (during Hajj season) each have a special 2-rak'ah prayer with extra takbeers. This guide covers the prayer, Sunnah acts, and common questions.

Eid al-Fitr

Celebrated on 1 Shawwal after Ramadan. Pay Zakat al-Fitr before the prayer. Eat dates before leaving home (Sunnah).

Eid al-Adha

Celebrated on 10 Dhul Hijjah during Hajj. Sacrifice (udhiyah/qurbani) is Wajib for those who can afford it. Do not eat before prayer if you will sacrifice.

Eid Prayer Structure

Part	Details
Total rak'ahs	2 only — no sunnah before or after the Eid prayer itself
Recitation	Imam recites aloud in both rak'ahs
Extra takbeers (Hanafi)	3 in 1st rak'ah before recitation; 3 in 2nd after ruku before recitation
Extra takbeers (Shafi'i/Maliki/Hanbali)	7 in 1st rak'ah; 5 in 2nd rak'ah
Khutbah	After the prayer (opposite of Jummah)
Time	After sunrise until before Dhuhr — typically prayed around 8–10 AM

Step-by-Step (Hanafi Method)

Opening takbir (Takbir al-Ihram)

Say "Allahu Akbar" and raise hands to begin the prayer.

Three extra takbeers (1st rak'ah)

Before reciting Al-Fatihah, say "Allahu Akbar" three times, raising hands each time. Then recite Al-Fatihah and a surah silently (following the imam who recites aloud).

Ruku and sujud

Complete ruku and two sujud as in normal prayer.

Second rak'ah

Recite Al-Fatihah and surah. After rising from ruku, say three extra takbeers before going to sujud. Then complete sujud and tashahhud.

Tasleem and khutbah

End with salam to right and left. Sit for the imam's khutbah — recommended to listen.

In congregation, follow your imam — schools differ on the number and placement of extra takbeers. Do not recite extra takbeers independently behind the imam.

Sunnah Acts on Eid

Ghusl (full bath) before leaving for prayer
Wearing your best clothes — new if possible
Saying the takbir from Maghrib on the last day of Ramadan until the Eid prayer (Eid al-Fitr)
Walking to the prayer ground by one route and returning by another
Greeting family and neighbours — "Taqabbal Allahu minna wa minkum" (May Allah accept from us and you)
Visiting relatives and giving gifts to children

Eid FAQ

What if it rains and Eid is at the mosque?

Eid can be prayed in the mosque if the open ground is unavailable. The same 2 rak'ahs with extra takbeers apply.

Can women attend Eid prayer?

Yes — women are encouraged to attend Eid prayer, including those menstruating (they attend for the gathering but do not pray).

What if I miss Eid prayer?

If you miss the congregation, some scholars permit praying 2 rak'ahs with extra takbeers individually before Dhuhr time ends. Others say there is no make-up — consult your local scholar.

Related Islamic Guides

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Ramadan Guide

Fasting, suhoor, iftar, and Tarawih.

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How to Pray Jummah

Friday prayer guide.

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How to Pray Salah

Daily prayer basics.

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Zakat Calculator

Calculate annual Zakat.

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