To mark the end of fasting during the Holy Month of Ramadan, Muslims across the world are gearing up to celebrate the special occasion of Eid Al Fitr 2022. In the UAE, Eid Al Fitr is celebrated by spending time with family and friends, enjoying a regal feast and engaging in spiritual pursuits. If this is your first Eid in the UAE, here’s a helpful guide on what Eid Al Fitr is and how this occasion is celebrated across the country.
WHAT IS EID AL FITR?
Eid Al Fitr, also known as the ‘Festival of Breaking Fast’, is an important Islamic festival that marks the end of the Holy Month of Ramadan. It is observed by Muslims during the first three days of Shawwal, the 10th month of the Islamic calendar. The dates for the Eid Al Fitr holidays in the UAE usually fall between the 29th day of Ramadan and the third day of Shawwal. However, depending on the moon’s sighting, it can also begin on the 30th day of Ramadan.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN EID AL FITR AND EID AL ADHA?
Eid Al Fitr is the first of the two Eid festivals celebrated by Muslims worldwide. It marks the end of the Blessed Month of Ramadan when Muslims fast, pray Tarawih and engage in charity and other religious rituals to enrich themselves spiritually.
Eid al-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is the second grand Eid celebration in the Islamic calendar. It honours Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.)’s willingness to sacrifice his son, Prophet Ismail (A.S.), following Allah’s will. Muslims mark the occasion by sacrificing an animal, usually a sheep, goat, cow or camel.
Eid Al Adha is also one of the last steps of Hajj, the obligatory Islamic pilgrimage performed in the holy city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia. The dates for Eid Al Adha fall on the 10th day of Dhul Al Hijjah, the 12th month of the Islamic calendar.
HOW DO MUSLIMS CELEBRATE EID AL FITR IN THE UAE?
Muslims celebrate Eid Al Fitr across the world by observing prayers and visiting friends and family. The exchange of gifts and giving charity is also a major part of this celebration.
Another important tradition of this occasion is Zakat Al Fitr (also known as Fitrana). It is typically given a few days before Eid (or before Eid prayers at the latest) to the needy. The head of the family pays Zakat Al Fitr on behalf of each family member under their care. This contribution is separate from the annual Zakat donation, which is another religious obligation. Muslims who meet the financial criteria must donate a certain portion of their wealth each year to charitable causes.
Muslim residents in the UAE also celebrate Eid with a similar zeal. They gather in mosques at the announced Eid Al Fitr prayer timings. After prayer, they go to meet family and friends, enjoy feasts, and participate in other festive activities. Bringing in harmony and bliss, the occasion is highly awaited by both Muslim as well as non-Muslim residents and expats in the country.
Eid days in the UAE are public holidays for both government and private-sector employees. It is one of the most anticipated UAE public holidays because residents can spend quality time with their friends and family, enjoy the many Eid Al Fitr activities in the UAE and visit loved ones. If the dates coincide with a weekend, residents can sometimes get a long weekend and make travel plans.
Travelling out of town is one of the most popular activities for Eid Al Fitr in Dubai, especially considering that travel had been restricted during the pandemic.
However, for those who prefer to celebrate the occasion in the country, there are usually plenty of exciting things to do in each emirate. The main highlight of Eid celebrations in Dubai is the fireworks display across the city’s popular districts. Malls in the city also feature unbeatable discounts across their stores.
WHEN IS EID AL FITR IN UAE?
Eid Al Fitr 2022 is expected to fall on Monday, May 2nd (Shawwal 1). The holidays will start from 30th April to 4th May (29th Ramadan to 3rd Shawwal). However, these dates for Eid Al Fitr in Dubai 2022 are subject to change as per the moon sighting.
FAQS
WHAT ARE SOME TRADITIONAL EID FOODS TO ENJOY IN THE UAE?
Muslim communities around the world have different traditional Eid foods. From spicy South Asian Biryani and Afghani Bolani to the popular Arabic Maamoul and Russian Manti, you can pick from a range of mouthwatering traditional savouries.
CAN I PERFORM EID AL FITR PRAYER AT HOME?
Yes, you can. Check this blog on how to pray Eid Al Fitr prayer at home for a detailed guide.
WHAT IS THE ORIGIN OF EID AND RAMADAN?
The essence of Eid Al Fitr and the holy month of Ramadan teaches us to be patient, grateful and considerate towards others. Looking at the history of these events, Ramadan is the month when the Holy Quran was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and Eid Al Fitr marks the end of this blissful month.
WHEN ARE THE EID UL FITR DATES?
Eid ul Fitr falls on the 1st of Shawwal. The Gregorian date, however, depends on the moon sighting for the month of Shawwal; it could be after the 29th or 30th of Ramadan.
ARE THERE ANY EID STAYCATION DEALS AVAILABLE IN DUBAI?
Yes, there are some amazing Dubai staycation Eid deals available that can make your Eid celebrations a lot more fun.
HOW EID AL ADHA IS CELEBRATED IN THE UAE?
Eid Al Adha in the UAE is one of the most anticipated Islamic festivals adorned with grand feasts and community celebrations.
How will you celebrate Eid ul Fitr 2022 in the UAE? Let us know in the comments section! If you need some fun ideas to make your Eid celebration special, here are some festive Eid home decoration ideas for your home.
