Eid Al Fitr 2025: Dubai marks Eid with gifts for children, elderly, residents and visitors

Dubai: Dubai is celebrating Eid Al Fitr 2025 in a grand and unique style. Beyond the usual lighting of the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest tower, and the Clock Tower, the iconic landmark in Old Dubai, the city has gone the extra mile to spread festive cheer to its residents and visitors.

The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) launched two initiatives to extend a hearty welcome to the visitors to the UAE arriving at the Dubai International Airport.

GDRFA distributed 1,000 copies of ‘To Be the First,’ the authorised biography of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to the travellers arriving at Dubai International Airport.

The launch of the initiative coincided with a field tour conducted by Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of GDRFA, at Dubai International Airport. The visit aimed to follow up on operational procedures and ensure the swift and smooth processing of arrivals. During the tour, Al Marri extended Eid greetings to passport control officers and other staff, praising their exceptional efforts in facilitating passenger movement and delivering a seamless travel experience during a period of increased traffic.

Visionary leader

He said that the initiative aims to inspire visitors through the story of a visionary leader who transformed the city into a global benchmark for excellence, innovation, and sustainable development. He noted that Dubai today ranks among the world’s leading cities — a status made possible by the foresight and leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid.

“Dubai is not just a city. It is a global success story, shaped by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who transformed the emirate into a vibrant, world-class destination that continues to exceed expectations. This initiative offers visitors a glimpse into the mindset of a visionary leader who laid the foundations of excellence and innovation — values that remain at the heart of Dubai’s journey towards the future,” he added.

Eid in Dubai stamp

Meanwhile, the GDRFA launched another special initiative in which travellers arriving at Dubai International Airport are greeted with a festive Eid stamp on their passports, designed by Brand Dubai, the creative arm of the Government of Dubai Media Office.

The ‘Eid in Dubai’ stamp reflects the UAE’s core values of hospitality and aims to make visitors’ arrival a memorable experience. In addition to the special stamp, travellers are receiving chocolates, adding to the festive atmosphere and ensuring that even those passing through the city feel the holiday spirit.

Eid treats for the elderly

For senior Emiratis, particularly those living alone, GDRFA came up with another initiative aimed at spreading festive warmth. In collaboration with the CDA, GDRFA gifted Eid treats to the elderly citizens under the "Waleef" programme.

This initiative, which is part of the broader "Year of the Community" in the UAE, saw officials visiting 48 senior citizens' homes to deliver Eid treats and traditional sweets. The home visits, accompanied by special messages of gratitude, underscored the respect and appreciation for the elderly, reinforcing the UAE’s strong values of respect for seniors.

The GDRFA’s initiative aims to strengthen human connections and promote social stability. "We continuously strive to develop initiatives that uphold the deeply rooted values of our society," said Lieutenant Colonel Faisal Abdullah Bin Blilah Al Muhairi, a senior official with the GDRFA. The programme ensures that senior citizens are emotionally and socially engaged, adding to the sense of community spirit that defines the holiday season.

Eidiya for kids

Another heartwarming gesture kicking off the festivities on Sunday was the distribution of Eid gifts to 10,000 children. The CDA in cooperation with the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) has been instrumental in making this happen.

A beloved tradition of the UAE, the gift-giving, known as Eidiya, is a cherished practice where children receive money or gifts to celebrate the end of Ramadan.

The CDA shared videos from a special Eid event where children from families benefiting from CDA’s services received their Eidiya. Officials were seen exchanging Eid greetings, hugging the children, and delivering their cash gifts.

The gesture is a symbol of joy, generosity, and social cohesion, with children eagerly anticipating these special gifts after a month of fasting. The initiative added to the festive atmosphere, fostering a sense of community and togetherness.

Gift vouchers from RTA

In another exciting development, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is offering exclusive prizes to passengers using public transport to celebrate Eid. From March 28 to April 4, RTA is running a special campaign where nol Plus members can win shopping and food vouchers, as well as discounts on public transport. The initiative aims to make public transport an integral part of the festive experience, encouraging residents and visitors to enjoy the ease and accessibility of Dubai’s transit system during the holiday period.