Kurdistan Region marks the first day of Eid al-Fitr alongside several Islamic countries, with government offices closed for a week-long holiday from March 30 to April 5, 2025. Political leaders share messages of unity, peace, and renewal as citizens celebrate through traditional visits and gatherings.
Regional Differences in Eid Observance
Today, March 30, 2025, citizens of Kurdistan Region joined several Islamic countries in celebrating Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan with traditional visits and greetings. The Kurdistan Regional Government announced a week-long official holiday starting Sunday, March 30, through April 5, with government institutions resuming regular operations on Sunday, April 6.
While Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Lebanon, Kuwait, Bahrain, Palestine, and Turkey designated today as the first day of Eid, other nations including Iraq, Iran, Syria, Jordan, Oman, Pakistan, Australia, and Japan will begin their celebrations on Monday instead, highlighting the regional variations in observing this important Islamic holiday.
Kurdish Leadership Extends Eid Greetings
Kurdistan’s political leaders shared messages of hope and unity for the occasion. PUK President Bafel Jalal Talabani extended warm wishes to Muslims in Kurdistan, Iraq, and worldwide, expressing hope that the celebration would inspire everyone to work with “national responsibility and in a spirit of tolerance” to address challenges. He emphasized the importance of promoting harmony and unity to strengthen the region’s stability.
KDP President Masoud Barzani offered special recognition to families of martyrs and Peshmerga heroes in his Eid message, praying for the acceptance of fasts and prayers while highlighting his hopes for peace and stability throughout humanity. His message reflected on the significance of Ramadan while emphasizing reconciliation and goodwill.
A Call for Renewal and Cooperation
Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani described the holiday as “an opportunity for all of us to renew our commitment to the supreme values and messages of reconciliation, tolerance, and humanitarianism.” He encouraged citizens to revisit relationships based on respect, love, friendship, and cooperation.
KRG Prime Minister Masrour Barzani’s multilingual message conveyed warm congratulations to all Muslims, particularly honoring the Peshmerga forces, internal security forces, and families of martyrs. He asked that these days serve as a “renewed starting point for establishing the foundations of peaceful coexistence.”
Kurdistan Region Deputy Prime Minister Qubad Talabani offered concise wishes for the acceptance of Muslims’ fasts and prayers, hoping the celebration would return with goodness and happiness each year.
As the holiday begins, the messages from Kurdish leadership collectively emphasize themes of unity, peace, and renewal during this sacred time, recognizing both religious significance and opportunities for societal progress in a region that continues to navigate complex challenges.
