Everything you need to know about Eid Al Fitr 2024 in the UAE
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 2024. In the UAE, this festival 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.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN EID AL FITR AND EID AL ADHA?
Eid Al Fitr is the first of the two festivals celebrated by Muslims worldwide. It marks the end of the blessed month of Ramadan, when Muslims fast, pray Taraweeh 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 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 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 a major part of this celebration.
Another important tradition of this occasion is Zakat Al Fitr (or 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 for each family member under their care. This contribution is separate from the annual Zakat donation, 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 celebrate Eid with a similar zeal. They gather in mosques at the announced Eid Al Fitr prayer timings. After prayer, they meet family and friends, enjoy feasts, and participate in other festive activities. Bringing harmony and bliss, the occasion is highly awaited by Muslim and non-Muslim residents and expats in the country.
Eid days in the UAE are public holidays for 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 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 in Dubai. 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 Al Fitr activities in Dubai is the fireworks display across the city’s popular districts. Malls in the city often feature unbeatable discounts across their stores.
WHEN IS EID IN THE UAE?
Eid Al Fitr 2024 is expected to fall on Tuesday, the 9th of April (Shawwal 1). According to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, 8th April to Shawwal 3 (or its equivalent in the Gregorian calendar) will be paid holidays for the private and government sector. However, the moon sighting committee will announce the exact date for Eid Al Fitr in Dubai in 2024.
Residents can get expect almost a week-long break, depending on when the Shawwal moon is sighted.
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 PRAYER AT HOME?
Yes, you can perform Eid prayers at home. Our detailed guide lists all the steps for performing the Eid Al Fitr prayer at home. Learn how to make the most of the upcoming festivities from performing Eid prayers at home to choosing the right dress.
WHAT IS THE ORIGIN OF EID AND RAMADAN?
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. The essence of Eid Al Fitr and the holy month of Ramadan teaches us to be patient, grateful and considerate towards others.
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.
If Ramadan lasts 29 days, the 1st of Shawwal would be 9th April.
ARE THERE ANY EID STAYCATION DEALS AVAILABLE IN DUBAI?
Yes, some amazing Dubai staycation Eid deals are 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, with grand feasts and community celebrations.
If you need some fun ideas to make your Eid celebration special, some festive Eid home decoration ideas for your home may help make the festivities more meaningful. On this joyous occasion, don’t forget to try some sweet treats from Arabic sweet shop. From the delicate textures of baklava to the creamy richness of umm ali, Arabic desserts offer a truly unforgettable experience for any sweet tooth.
Happy Ramadan and Eid!
