Eid Al Adha 2013: Where to celebrate in UAE

Dubai: Joy and celebrations will sweep across the UAE on Tuesday as residents mark Eid Al Adha (Festival of Sacrifice) with social visits, outings, dining and other leisure pursuits.

A wide variety of activities and events have been planned for the long Eid break, with families, friends and visitors spoilt for choice.

Each emirate has rolled out a range of Eid attractions, be it 24-hour shopping, fireworks or amusement fairs.

Many families are flocking to public parks, beaches and tourist spots, while others are busy receiving guests or accepting Eid invitations at home.

The Muslim festival marks the completion of the annual Haj pilgrimage to the holy city of Makkah, Saudi Arabia. Devotees also sacrifice an animal, usually a sheep or goat, to show gratitude for the blessings of Islam.

The day starts with group Eid prayers held in larges mosques and dedicated open spaces in each emirate shortly after sunrise. Many then purchase a goat or sheep from the livestock market so they can offer the Eid sacrifice at abattoirs. It is encouraged to donate a part in the spirit of charity and consume the rest at home.

Eid delicacies are a main part of celebrations, as the Eid days are known as “the days of eating and drinking” in Islam.

Many residents put on their best clothes for the occasion and also gift money to children in a tradition called ‘Eidiya’ or ‘Eidee’.

Like many other Muslim countries, the UAE has a strong tradition of hosting a string of Eid events and activities.

Dubai has once again launched its official ‘Eid in Dubai’ season (October 10-19), with a popular feature being 24-hour malls on the first and second day of Eid (October 15-16 this year). What’s more, the popular Global Village fair has opened earlier than usual to take part in the celebrations.

In Sharjah, a three-day celebration (October 15-17) is set to take place at Al Majaz Waterfront, including a fountain show and fireworks display on Tuesday. Traditional Emirati bands will also perform daily during the three days of Eid at the waterfront.

Meanwhile, the Al Qasba leisure destination is hosting five days of festivities (October 15-19), with children’s shows, themed events and fireworks.

In the capital, the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre is hosting the Eid Shopping Festival, including ready-made garments, abayas, silk and cashmere shawls, paintings and artefacts. It lasts till Thursday and is open daily from 4pm to midnight.

Also, the EidFest Abu Dhabi organisers are bringing a number of shows, including two stages on the Abu Dhabi Corniche featuring street acts, an Eid market and a Heritage Zone.

Meanwhile, in Al Ain, shopping fever has gripped residents, with malls, shops and souks bustling with activity. Additionally, the Al Ain Convention Centre is hosting the Eid Al Adha Festival. Also, the Al Ain Zoo has extended its opening hours — 10am-10pm — for October 15-19. A selection of performances will also be held there.

And to ensure the safety and security of residents in the Eid rush, police departments nationwide are deploying extra units and operating special 24-hour patrols. Public transport services have also been extended to meet high passenger demand during the festive season.