Afghan Diaspora in Austria Celebrates Eid al-Fitr with Prayer and Solidarity

With nearly 50,000 Afghans living in Austria—almost half of them in Vienna—the Afghan diaspora has established a strong and vibrant presence in the country. While they maintain various cultural and community centers, religious gatherings primarily take place in three Sunni mosques and one Shi’a mosque in Vienna. These spaces serve as places for daily prayers, Friday congregational prayers, and major religious ceremonies, including Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, and funeral and mourning services.

On Sunday, March 30, 2025, many members of the Afghan community joined thousands of Muslims from diverse backgrounds to observe Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan. Whether at Afghan mosques or the Vienna Islamic Center, the city’s largest Islamic institution, they came together in prayer, reflection, and celebration.

For Afghan Muslims in Vienna, Eid al-Fitr is more than just a religious observance—it is a moment of unity, resilience, and cultural preservation. Despite being far from their homeland, they gathered in large numbers to perform the Eid prayers, exchange warm greetings, and strengthen bonds with fellow Muslims.

One of the most cherished Afghan traditions is visiting family and friends during Eid, just as they did in Afghanistan. However, in the diaspora, this custom is often difficult to maintain, as many Afghans—like the broader host community—are occupied with work. The demands of daily life, smaller living spaces, and shifting priorities make large gatherings less common. Yet, attending prayers remains a source of joy and connection. 

Eid is traditionally celebrated over three days, but the experience differs in the diaspora. While school children are allowed to take the first day off, this year’s Eid fell on a Sunday, which was already a day off. 

For many Afghans, the celebration is largely centered around the communal Eid prayers. As one Afghan shared on Facebook, “Eid in the diaspora starts with prayers and ends with prayers.” 

Beyond prayer, Eid is also a time of charity and generosity. Many Afghan families in Vienna upheld this tradition by supporting those in need, embodying the true spirit of Ramadan. Zakat al-Fitr, a mandatory almsgiving given at the end of Ramadan, is set at 10 Euros per person in Austria. However, many Afghans chose to send this contribution to family, friends, and those less fortunate in Afghanistan, ensuring their loved ones could partake in the Eid celebrations despite economic hardships.

For the Afghan diaspora and the wider Muslim community, this Eid was a powerful reminder that faith transcends borders, and traditions endure, even in a foreign land.

Eid Mubarak!