Morocco cancels Eid-ul-Azha animal sacrifices due to severe drought and ongoing economic crisis

Moroccan authorities have suspended the traditional animal sacrifice for Eid-ul-Azha 2025, following a royal directive from King Mohammed VI. The unprecedented move, prompted by a prolonged seven-year drought and worsening economic conditions, aims to safeguard the country’s dwindling livestock population and ease the financial strain on citizens amid soaring meat prices.

According to The Halal Times, this is only the fourth time in Morocco’s history that the Qurbani ritual has been cancelled.

Citing a 38% drop in cattle and sheep numbers since 2016 and rising feed costs, King Mohammed VI announced that he would perform a symbolic sacrifice on behalf of all Moroccans to preserve the religious significance of the festival.

To enforce the decision, the government shut down livestock markets and banned the sale of animal slaughter tools.

The suspension poses a major blow to farmers and traders who depend on Eid-related sales. In response, the government rolled out a MAD 6.2 billion ($620 million) relief program for the livestock sector and reduced import tariffs, facilitating the import of 100,000 sheep.

Public reactions are divided—some support the move for its focus on animal welfare and economic relief, while others lament the interruption of a cherished religious tradition.