As Eid Al Adha approaches, residents in the UAE are preparing for the festival and its traditional sacrificial practices. In Sharjah, the livestock market has been bustling with visitors eager to explore pricing and breed options for goats, particularly Indian goats. These goats have recently arrived in the UAE via air cargo, a change prompted by shipping disruptions.
Pricing of Indian Goats in UAE
Current prices for Indian goats start at approximately Dh800, with higher-end models reaching up to Dh2,200. According to Abdul Qureshi, a trader at the Sharjah livestock market, the pricing varies based on several factors, including breed, size, and weight.
Market Prices and Trends
- Indian goats are sold for Dh900 to Dh1,600.
- Somali goats are priced between Dh1,000 and Dh2,000.
The demand for Indian goats has surged this year, causing a slight increase in prices compared to previous years. Shahid Mirza from Al Rukn Livestock Trading noted the shift from traditional sea transport to air cargo for swift delivery.
Visitor Trends Ahead of Eid Al Adha
Many residents are visiting the livestock market early to assess their options. Those with space at home are making purchases, while apartment dwellers are also gathering information on pricing and breeds.
The peak sales are anticipated to occur closer to Arafat Day and Eid morning. However, advanced bookings are available for apartment residents unable to store goats at home.
Advance Bookings for Apartment Residents
Market officials have introduced a system allowing apartment residents to pay for their selected goats upfront. The animals can remain in market pens for one or two days until they are sent directly to slaughter.
Process After Goat Purchase
Once a goat is purchased for sacrifice, it undergoes several steps including slaughtering, skin removal, and cutting. Typically, the entire process from slaughter to meat handover takes 20 to 25 minutes. However, during peak hours, waiting times may vary significantly.
New Facilities and Arrangements at the Market
Preparations for Eid Al Adha at the Sharjah livestock market include new facilities aimed at enhancing customer experience. Collaborating with local authorities, market officials have implemented a tracking system for orders, dedicated customer pathways, and fully equipped waiting areas.
Additionally, there has been an increase in the number of butchers and cleaning staff to ensure hygiene and efficient service during the busy holiday period. On the first day of Eid, the market will remain open until 10 PM after the Eid prayers.
