Prayers, greetings, gifts mark first day of Eid

Dubai: A festive mood prevailed across the UAE as people celebrated Eid Al Adha.

Young and old greeted each other after morning prayers held across the seven emirates. People exchanged sweets and gifts and visited their friends and relatives, offering their best wishes.

In pictures: Muslims in UAE offer Eid prayers
In pictures: Arab world celebrates Eid Al Adha

"I went to the mosque for the morning prayers where we exchanged greetings. We have made mutton biryani today for lunch and later I, along with my wife and kids, will visit our friends and relatives to exchange gifts and greetings," said Habib Rahman, an events organiser.

"We had started preparing for Eid a few days ago with shopping. My wife and my daughter Habra put henna on her hands yesterday and the celebrations and holiday mood will continue for a few more days."

Shopping spree

The celebratory mood started over the weekend itself as people began their Eid shopping. Expatriates started remitting money home to their families for the festival.

"I sent money three days ago, Eidiyah [the gift of money given to loved ones during Eid] for my sisters and kids, which we do every year. Sometimes I visit my family and carry gifts but this time I am in Dubai so I sent the money," said Abdullah, a watchman, who hails from Pakistan.

Regarding his celebrations, he said: "I shared the sacrificial meat with a few friends and today after the morning prayers, we are cooking at home."

Shopping malls and city markets continue to stay busy with people still buying gifts.

"I bought some gifts and sweets earlier, but as I continue to get more phone calls and invitations, I am buying more. For most of my friends I am taking chocolates; it is money for the children," said Rashida, another expatriate. Making the most of their holidays, many people planned trips to neighbouring emirates. Apart from shopping malls, parks and beaches also remained busy.

"I am going with my family and a couple of friends for a desert safari," another resident said.

Something for everyone

To mark the Eid celebrations, an array of activities were organised across the UAE.

Numerous events and activities entertained the residents during the festivities of ‘Eid in Dubai', organised by the Dubai Events and Promotions Establishment, an agency of the Dubai Department of Economic Development.

Ebrahim Saleh, Festivals Coordinator General and Deputy CEO at DEPE, said Eid in Dubai had "something for everyone".

He said a wide spectrum of activities are lined up to mark the celebrations and people can experience these right from the moment they land at Dubai airport where surprises await them in the shape of gift packs of chocolate appearing on the baggage conveyors, lucky draws and special offers.

Eid decorations and lighting and fireworks add to the celebrations.

Global Village, which officially opened last week, welcomed visitors with various events, special offers and surprise gifts. The celebration continues for ten days aligned with the 16th season of Global Village.