Each year, Muslims around the world celebrate Eid al Adha, the Festival of the Sacrifice, to honor the prophet Ibrahim and his obedience to Allah. On Tuesday, October 15, Saudi Arabian students from the KAUST Foundation Year Program and SABIC Foundation Year Program collaborated to host a celebration in honor of this important holiday.
KAUST students provided hand-made hanging lanterns and pennants as decorations. Many KAUST students also designed informational and creative posters depicting Eid traditions. After students shared family stories over lunch, the celebration kicked off with Arabic desserts, music and dancing. Three SABIC students had prepared presentations for faculty and staff to share the cultural and religious significance of Eid al Adha along with celebratory practices in different parts of the Arab world. Celebrations continued after the presentations with staff and faculty mingling with students, enjoying tasty Arabic treats and even joining in the dancing festivities.
For many of our students, this is the first major holiday they have spent away from their families and friends. The KAUST and SABIC students, coordinators and graduate assistants would like to express our deepest gratitude to staff, faculty and our own Vice Provost for making this such a special event for all.
