The weekend is finally here, and this is no ordinary weekend. It’s one of the most awaited days in the calendar — the weekend of Eid Al Fitr, which marks the celebration of the end of Ramadan.
The intense month of fasting from sunrise to sunset comes to a close as families prepare to celebrate Eid this weekend (and extended weekend, might I add!). It’s exciting to see how the entire city comes together for this wondrous festival that takes place on a massive scale. It’s not only our Muslim friends; in fact the whole city joins in to celebrate Eid, making Dubai unique in that way.
Personally, though I did not observe the fast, I feel as much a part of Ramadan and Eid celebrations as anyone else. And this is because through the entire month, we too maintained respect and restraint, and also joined in the spirit of giving that is integral to Ramadan. So, obviously, we too are a big part of the celebrations!
“There is a certain sanctity in observing Ramadan here in Dubai, which I have not felt anywhere else in the world. Though it has been an intensely hot summer, I felt the support of the entire city with me, and I enjoyed each day,” said a friend who recently moved here from Australia.
Falguni Patel has lived in Dubai for ten years and she wanted to understand how it feels to fast from dawn to dusk, so she observed the fast for two days and noted how much discipline and dedication is required. “Even my children learnt to observe self-restraint as they sincerely followed the rules of not eating or drinking in public”, she added. This truly exemplifies the myriad of cultures in Dubai and how peacefully they all coexist.
“Eid in Dubai is definitely one of the best in the world. You feel the spirit of Eid everywhere. There are Eid sales, special offers, fireworks, celebrations and its simply fabulous to experience,” says Eliza Khan. “A few nights back was one of the important nights of Ramadan where we prayed the whole night through and we slept only at 5am,” she said. “I am very much in Dubai for Eid and I plan to celebrate with friends and family by preparing the traditional dish ‘sheerkurma’ and delicious home-cooked biryani.”
Many families take a short vacation out of the city, making use of the long Eid weekend. But those of you who are in Dubai, the exuberance will be no less! Step out of your homes at sunset and see how the city lights up like a fairyland, and malls are open 24/7, The feeling of celebration, revelry and festivities is palpable throughout. Eid Mubarak, Dubai!
