Celebrating Eid al-Fitr in the UAE: How Special It Is For Islams?

Eid al-Fitr in UAE, often referred to as the "Festival of Breaking the Fast," is one of the most significant religious holidays in Islam, marking the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, prayer, and reflection. In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Eid al-Fitr is celebrated with great enthusiasm, blending traditional customs with modern flair. The festive atmosphere, elaborate decorations, and heartfelt gatherings reflect the country's rich cultural heritage and its embrace of modernity.

When is Eid Al Fitr In UAE?

Eid al-Fitr holds significant importance in the Islamic calendar as it signals the conclusion of the sacred month of Ramadan. This observance occurs within the initial three days of Shawwal, the 10th month of the Islamic calendar. The dates for the Eid festivities in the UAE typically span from the 29th day of Ramadan to the third day of Shawwal.

Eid al-Fitr is a time for thankfulness, contemplation, and family reunion as the fasting community concludes their fasting period and commemorates the spiritual progress attained throughout Ramadan. This celebration carries profound religious and communal importance for Muslims in the UAE.

Is Eid Al Fitr a national holiday in UAE?

Yes. Eid Al Fitr is a national holiday in the UAE. Employees of both the Government and the private sectors will have paid day-offs during the holiday. Schools and other institutions are also closed from Ramadan 29 to Shawwal 3 as per the Islamic calendar.

Eid al-Fitr is a national holiday in the UAE

The Difference Between Eid Al-Fitr and Eid Al-Adha

Eid Al Fitr is the initial of two major celebrated festivals in the Islamic tradition. It signifies the conclusion of the Ramadan month, during which Muslims engage in fasting, Taraweeh prayers, and acts of charity, all aimed at nurturing their spiritual growth.

Eid Al Adha, alternatively referred to as the Festival of Sacrifice, emerges as the second significant Eid observance within the Islamic calendar. It honors the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.) to sacrifice his son, Prophet Ismail (A.S.), by Allah's divine decree. Muslims commemorate this occasion by performing an animal sacrifice, typically involving a sheep, goat, cow, or camel.

Eid al-Fitr Celebration in the UAE

Eid al-Fitr is the time for Islams to break the fast. Fasting from dawn until sunset throughout the sacred month of Ramadan ("Sawm") is one of the fundamental pillars of Islam. Muslims believe it was during this month that the Prophet Muhammad received the revelations of the Qur'an.

During Eid al-Fitr, family members gather and enjoy delicious meals together. Across various regions, the nature of the festive day varies; while it might be a one-day celebration in some areas, there are numerous places where Eid festivities extend over three days. 

In the UAE, doing charity plays a vital role, with a strong emphasis on aiding the underprivileged throughout Ramadan and Eid. Muslims are motivated to extend their generosity, supporting those in need. The government, alongside diverse charitable entities, distributes essential provisions such as food, clothing, and monetary assistance to the less-fortuned people.

People celebrate Eid al-Fitr with glorious fireworks displays

How is Eid celebrated in the UAE?

Preparations and traditions

In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Eid Al-Fitr commences with elaborate preparations and cherished traditions. As the holy month of Ramadan comes, families decorate their homes and surroundings, signifying a fresh start for the festive occasion. New clothes are purchased or tailored, symbolizing renewal and unity. Traditional henna designs adorn the hands of women and children, adding an artistic touch to the celebrations. 

In the days leading up to Eid, markets bustle with activity as people shop for gifts, sweets, and dates to share with loved ones and distribute to those in need. An integral part of the festivities is giving and sharing, and this spirit of benevolence is embodied through charitable donations known as "Zakat Al-Fitr." 

Praying Rituals and Wishes

In the UAE, the praying rituals of Eid Al-Fitr are a culmination of vibrant celebrations, from communal prayers and big parties to luminous fireworks displays. As the day begins, individuals adorn themselves in their finest attire, converging at the nearest mosque to partake in the Eid prayers. This gathering becomes a shared experience as families and friends join in, reflecting the sense of community that characterizes the occasion. 

The Muslim residents, regardless of nationality, embrace the festive spirit with equal enthusiasm. They gather at mosques at the announced prayer timings and engage in the Eid Al-Fitr prayers. Post-prayer, the atmosphere transforms into jubilation as loved ones reunite to savor sumptuous feasts and participate in various joyous activities. The celebration bridges diverse people from all walks of life, uniting Muslim and non-Muslim residents and expatriates in the UAE, creating an atmosphere brimming with harmony and joy. The radiant fireworks displays and extensive meals further add to the vitality, marking the Eid Al-Fitr celebrations as an eagerly anticipated event in the country.

The celebration of Eid Al-Fitr is associated with special prayers called "Salat Al Eid" in Arabic. In mosques and open spaces, believers perform two units of prayer, known as "Rakat," a solemn expression of gratitude.

Following these prayers, a sermon ensues, delivered by the imam (an Islamic leadership position), invoking forgiveness, mercy, and tranquility for every soul across the globe. In the spirit of this meaningful day, Muslims exchange warm greetings with the phrase "Eid Mubarak," with the sentiment of a blessed festival. An exchange of goodwill unfolds as the proper response, "Khair Mubarak," bestows a wish of goodness upon the one who extends the greeting. 

The praying rituals play an integral part during Eid Al-Fitr in the UAE

The festive atmosphere on the street

The alive atmosphere of Eid Al-Fitr in the UAE is apparent when travelers head outdoors, particularly as twilight descends. The evening air becomes vibrant, with numerous individuals partaking in the celebratory ambiance. Across the bustling metropolises of Abu Dhabi and Dubai, shopping malls transform into epicenters of delight, hosting exclusive events such as live concerts and captivating shopping and culinary extravaganzas throughout the Eid period. Yet, the glorious fireworks genuinely steal the spotlight, eagerly anticipated by all. 

Gathering in bustling crowds, families converge on iconic destinations like Yas Island, Hudayriyat Island, Abu Dhabi Corniche, Global Village, and Jumeirah Beach in Dubai to witness the sky illuminated with a mixture of colors. While some opt for holiday escapes, celebrating Eid beyond city limits, those who choose to revel within the nation are rewarded with captivating experiences across the emirates.

Are you excited about joining the vibrant ambiance of Eid al-Fitr celebrations in the UAE? Remember to secure your UAE visa for your upcoming journey. With our immediate assistance at UAE Immigration Services, acquiring a visa for your UAE visit becomes hassle-free and expeditious, sparing you considerable time and energy.