Eid Al-Fitr is an important Islamic holiday observed by Muslims across the world to mark the end of Ramadan. Also referred to as the Festival of Breaking the Fast, it is a three-day celebration that begins on the first day of the Islamic month of Shawwal. Held after the last day of fasting determined by the lunar calendar, Eid is generally a public holiday period. Muslims come together during this festival to pray, share and enjoy the blessings of Allah. Eid Al-Fitr 2020 holiday is expected to begin on the 24^th of May.

What is the significance of Eid Al-Fitr?

Being one of the two major festivals in the Islamic calendar, the other being Eid Al-Adha, the day of Eid Al-Fitr is special as it marks the conclusion of the Holy month of Ramadan. Muslims not only celebrate the end of daily fasting comprising of 29 or 30 days, but also praise Allah for the revelation of the Quran which is believed to be revealed by the end of Ramadan. They also thank Allah for the strength to exercise self-control all month long and seek forgiveness for their sins.

How is Eid Al-Fitr celebrated in UAE?

In general, this holiday is observed by a number of Muslim rituals and traditions. Muslims are not permitted to fast on the day of Eid. Celebrations for this holiday begin with Muslims waking up before dawn to perform Eid prayers in mosques. Devotees gather to pray in congregation and greet each other on the occasion of Eid. In addition, obligatory charitable acts are normally carried out afterwards. People tend to wear new clothes to visit their families and friends during Eid. The occasion is often marked by family events and Majlises with lavish feasts. Gift-giving is also practised with much aplomb with near and dear ones. The celebrations of the year 2020 are expected to be silent with mosques closed still and gatherings in homes limited to 5 people as part of coronavirus prevention measures.

How do locals in UAE prepare for Eid Al-Fitr?

In light of its cultural multiplicity and diversity, Eid al-Fitr celebrations in the United Arab Emirates has a very special flavour because of its Emirati customs and traditions. The age-old practices and folk heritage observed by families, starting from heading to prayers on Eid’s first morning, and then exchanging greetings among members of the community is still a highlight.

1. Clothes – The purchase of Eid clothing starts early, but demand increases during the last week of Ramadan and for this reason, people flock to the malls and Souks. Men and boys typically wear a Kandoora which is a long, usually white, robe worn in the Gulf Arab region. Women opt for colourful, embellished Jalabiya which is a long-sleeved full-length dress. New abayas are also purchased to wear outside the house. Young girls are often clothed with traditional Jalabiyas or Kaftans. Women and girls decorate their hands with henna.
2. Food – After the customary dates and milk in the morning, Eid festivities are not complete without special delicacies. Local Emirati dishes like Harees, a porridge of whole wheat and meat and Kunafa, a middle eastern dessert made with string pastry and sweet cheese, are a must-have for Eid breakfast. Extended family members gather at a senior’s house for a customary meal and Arabic coffee – Qahwa.
3. Decorations – In addition to preparing scrumptious feats, a lot of attention is paid to preparations for home decorations. Every Muslim home radiates glory and splendour as residences are teeming with visitors including friends, relatives and acquaintances. People adorn their surroundings with a flashy new look and extend a warm welcome to one and all. Floral bouquets, fairy lights, ornamental lanterns and aromatic candles are quite popular among the locals.
4. Gifts – Eid is the time to be happy; to share blessings with your loved ones and care for them. Hence, gifting is an integral part of the Eid Al-Fitr celebration. It is a great way to express your love and gratitude for others by offering unique gifts during this festive season. Arabic sweets, home décor pieces and a box full of dates being the most common gifts. In Emirati culture, premium dates are considered to be a delightful and healthy gift appreciated by all. Bateel’s signature collection of luxury wooden gift boxes and gift sets would make for the perfect gift on the occasion of Ramadan as well as Eid. Children conventionally receive an amount of money called ‘Eidiya’. It brings a smile to children who collect Eidiya from family members and neighbours.
5. Fireworks – Eid Al-Fitr celebration in the UAE is not complete without watching the spectacular firework displays across different emirates. In the previous years, the United Arab Emirates has been holding some of the best fireworks shows gaining international renown. Tourists from across the globe throng to witness this live event often presented in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah. The COVID-19 epidemic may change this trend this year. It is still unknown if there will be any Eid Al-Fitr fireworks in 2020.