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Emirati Abdullah Al Hosni exchanges Eid Greetings with his son Hamed, after performing Eid-ul-Fitr prayer at Shaikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi early morning on Thursday. Image Credit: Abdul Rahman/Gulf News

Abu Dhabi: Residents all over Abu Dhabi joined their loved ones in a variety of activities to celebrate the first day of Eid Al Fitr on Thursday.

Whether travelling for outdoor activities such as camping or sitting at home to receive visitors, residents enjoyed the Eid spirit with their friends and family.

“Just like every Eid, we race towards the shower before prayers, and although I always end up last, I get to spend the day with family and friends, which is something I greatly cherish,” said 13-year-old Abdullah Talal from Palestine.

Meanwhile, Basma Al Bahri, 23, went to Dubai and Al Ain for five days with her entire family for tourism and extended family visits.

“Although we do this every year, we keep enjoying it more and more. The adventure is different each time and it is a great chance for us to bond,” said the civil engineering student.

For others, Eid is a time of reflection that reminds them of previous joys and memories.

“I just keep remembering when I used to give Eid money to my sisters and how we would all end up giving each other the same cash we received. It was a much simpler time that I will always value,” said mother-of-three, Sheraz Al Annab.

“Nowadays, I end up with a full stomach of cakes and sweets and always worry about my weight yet it is a sweet sin that my heart can’t refuse on the first day of Eid,“ the 44-year-old showroom manager added.

Abu Dhabi Police also joined the celebrations by distributing Eid sweets to drivers in addition to exchanging greetings.

Police officials also warned motorists against speeding, especially in crowded areas, to prevent any pedestrian accidents.