Eid al-Fitr Celebrated in Saudi Arabia, UAE
News Desk
Riyadh/ Abu Dhabi: As the holy month of Ramadan concludes, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have ushered in Eid al-Fitr 2025 with a blend of traditional and modern festivities.
However, the global Muslim community remains divided over the sighting of the Shawwal moon, leading to varying dates for the celebration.
Eid Observed in 11 Countries
Only 11 countries are marking Eid al-Fitr today, while most of the Muslim world will observe it on Monday, April 1. According to Arab media reports, the crescent moon was not sighted in several nations, including Egypt, Syria, Jordan, Oman, and Tunisia, where Eid has been confirmed for Monday.
In Iran, religious authorities declared that 30 days of fasting will be completed, setting April 1 as the Eid date. Similar announcements came from Indonesia, Malaysia, the United States, and Canada.
In the United Kingdom, the Muslim community remains divided, with some celebrating Eid today, while others follow different moon-sighting traditions and will observe it on Monday.
King Salman: Eid is a Day of Joy, Unity, and Gratitude
Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman, extended heartfelt Eid al-Fitr greetings to Saudi citizens, residents, and Muslims worldwide.
In his official message, King Salman expressed gratitude to Allah for the countless blessings bestowed upon the Kingdom, particularly the privilege of serving the Two Holy Mosques and ensuring millions of worshippers performed Umrah safely during Ramadan.
“Eid is a day of joy and happiness, where the values of compassion and unity shine,” King Salman said, citing the Quranic verse:
“And to complete the prescribed period and to glorify Allah for guiding you, so that you may be thankful.”
The King concluded by praying for peace, security, stability, and prosperity for Saudi Arabia, the Islamic world, and the entire globe.
Saudi Arabia’s Grand Festivities
The General Entertainment Authority (GEA) has launched “Eid Events 2025”, featuring a range of activities, including concerts, theatrical performances, fireworks, and family-friendly events across major cities.
Celebrations have already commenced in Riyadh’s Boulevard City, Boulevard World, VIA Riyadh, and Jeddah Art Promenade.
On March 31, Al-Khobar’s City Hub will join the festivities.
Music concerts will be held in Riyadh, Shaqra, Abha, Qassim, Jeddah, and the Eastern Region.
Theatrical performances are scheduled in Riyadh (April 1–19), Jeddah (April 1–6), and Dammam (April 1–3).
Spectacular fireworks displays will light up the skies at Boulevard World (Riyadh), Jeddah Art Promenade, Al-Khobar Corniche, and Arruddaf Park (Taif) at 9 p.m.
These events reflect Saudi Arabia’s commitment to enhancing the festive spirit of Eid and expanding its entertainment sector.
UAE’s Cultural and Community Festivities
In the United Arab Emirates, Eid celebrations began with mass prayers at mosques and open prayer grounds across the country, including the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi. Families gathered to share lavish meals, featuring traditional dishes like biryani, harees, and maamoul, reinforcing bonds of community and kinship.
Children eagerly received “Eidiya” (monetary gifts) from elders, a cherished Eid tradition.
Public spaces came alive with fireworks, cultural performances, and family-friendly events at landmarks such as Burj Khalifa and Yas Island.
The UAE’s celebrations reflect a blend of deep-rooted traditions and modern festivities, highlighting its commitment to diversity and inclusivity.
Eid Prayers at Al-Aqsa Mosque
In Jerusalem, the first Friday of Ramadan saw restricted access for Palestinians wishing to pray at Al-Aqsa Mosque. Israeli authorities limited entry to men over 55, women over 50, and children up to age 12 from the West Bank, subjecting them to security screenings.
The Palestinian Authority condemned these restrictions, calling them a violation of international law and Israel’s obligations as an occupying power. Despite these challenges, worshippers gathered at Islam’s third holiest site to mark the sacred occasion.
As Eid al-Fitr unfolds, the diverse festivities across the Arab world reflect the enduring spirit of unity, gratitude, and cultural richness that defines this auspicious occasion.
