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Top 5 things to do during Eid holidays 2023 in UAE

Eid is a significant religious holiday celebrated by Muslims around the world, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan. The UAE is a predominantly Muslim country, and Eid is one of the most important holidays on its calendar. Eid al-Fitr, the first of the two Eids, is celebrated for three days, and it usually falls in the month of May or June, depending on the Islamic lunar calendar.

During the Eid holidays, businesses, schools, and government offices are closed, and many residents take the opportunity to travel or spend time with their families. The streets and public places are decorated with lights, and the festive atmosphere is amazing. Muslims in the UAE begin the Eid celebrations by attending Eid prayers at the mosque. After the prayers, families and friends gather to exchange greetings and gifts and indulge in traditional Emirati cuisine. The most popular dishes during Eid include luqaimat, a sweet dumpling, and machboos, a spicy rice and meat dish.

The UAE also hosts various Eid festivals and events across the country, including fireworks displays, cultural performances, and children's activities. These events offer an opportunity to experience the local culture and traditions and immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere.

Enjoying Eid holidays in UAE with fun activities, family gatherings, and cultural festivities.

Here are the top 5 things to do during Eid holidays in UAE

1. Visit a traditional Emirati souq

This image showcases the lively ambiance of a traditional souq (marketplace) in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The scene is filled with a kaleidoscope of colors and patterns as stalls brim with a diverse array of goods. Shoppers and tourists can be seen meandering through the market, engaging with vendors and exploring a variety of traditional items, from textiles and spices to handcrafted goods and jewelry. The photograph encapsulates the rich cultural heritage and vibrant shopping experience offered by the souqs in the UAE

The souqs in the UAE offer an excellent opportunity to experience the local culture and traditions. Visitors can explore the various stalls selling spices, textiles, and handicrafts, and sample traditional Emirati foods.

Here are some of the traditional Emirati souqs to visit in the UAE:

01

Souq Waqif, Abu Dhabi: Located in the heart of Abu Dhabi, Souq Waqif is one of the most popular souqs in the UAE. The souq offers a wide range of traditional products, including textiles, spices, and perfumes. Visitors can also indulge in Emirati cuisine at the numerous restaurants and cafes in the souq.

02

Dubai Spice Souk, Dubai: Located in the historic Deira district of Dubai, the Spice Souk is a traditional souq that sells a wide range of spices, herbs, and incense. The souq is a sensory delight, with the aromas of spices filling the air. Visitors can also find traditional textiles, perfumes, and other products.

03

Al Ain Souq, Al Ain: Al Ain Souq is one of the oldest souqs in the UAE, dating back to the 18th century. The souq is located in the historic Al Ain Oasis and offers a wide range of traditional products, including handicrafts, textiles, and pottery.

04

Mina Souq, Ras Al Khaimah: Mina Souq is a traditional souq located in the fishing village of Mina Al Arab in Ras Al Khaimah. The souq offers a range of fresh seafood, spices, and traditional Emirati products. Visitors can also take a boat ride around the village and witness the traditional way of life of the fishermen.

05

Souq Al Arsah, Sharjah: Souq Al Arsah is a traditional souq located in the heart of Sharjah's Heritage Area. The souq is one of the oldest markets in the UAE and offers a wide range of traditional products, including textiles, perfumes, and handicrafts. Visitors can also explore the nearby Sharjah Heritage Museum to learn more about the local culture and history.

2. Attend Eid prayers at a mosque

A stunning view of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, with its pristine white domes and grand architecture set against a brilliant blue sky.

Eid is a religious holiday, and attending Eid prayers at a mosque is a significant part of the celebration. Visitors can witness the prayers and experience the festive atmosphere at the mosque.

01

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Located in Abu Dhabi, this is the largest mosque in the UAE and can accommodate up to 41,000 worshippers. It is known for its stunning white marble domes, intricate carvings, and beautiful gardens.

02

Jumeirah Mosque: Located in Dubai, this is one of the few mosques in the UAE that is open to non-Muslims for guided tours. It is known for its stunning architecture and beautiful illumination at night.

03

Al Noor Mosque: Located in Sharjah, this mosque has a unique design with a blend of traditional and modern elements. It can accommodate up to 2,200 worshippers and offers a peaceful environment for prayer.

04

Sheikh Khalifa Mosque: Located in Fujairah, this mosque is known for its striking blue domes and intricate Islamic designs. It can accommodate up to 2,500 worshippers and offers a serene atmosphere for prayer.

3. Enjoy traditional Emirati cuisine

A delectable spread of Emirati cuisine, featuring dishes like grilled meats, aromatic rice, flavorful spices, and traditional bread, highlighting the rich and diverse flavors of the United Arab Emirates.

The UAE is known for its rich and flavorful cuisine, and visitors can indulge in traditional Emirati dishes during Eid. From savory meat dishes like machboos to sweet treats like luqaimat, there's something for everyone to try. Emirati cuisine is a rich and flavorful blend of Arabic, Persian, and Indian influences.

Here are some places where you can enjoy traditional Emirati cuisine in the UAE.

01

Al Fanar Restaurant and Cafe, Dubai: Al Fanar is a popular restaurant chain in the UAE that serves traditional Emirati cuisine. The restaurant's décor and ambiance recreate the traditional Emirati way of life, and the menu features a wide range of authentic Emirati dishes, including machboos, harees, and luqaimat.

02

Qasr Al Hosn, Abu Dhabi: Qasr Al Hosn is a historic fort in the heart of Abu Dhabi that has been converted into a museum. The museum features exhibits on the history and culture of Abu Dhabi and the UAE, and it also has a traditional Emirati restaurant where visitors can enjoy authentic Emirati cuisine.

03

Local House Restaurant, Al Ain: The Local House Restaurant is a popular eatery in Al Ain that serves traditional Emirati cuisine. The restaurant is located in a traditional Emirati house and offers a range of Emirati dishes, including machboos, balaleet, and chebab.

04

Bait Al Mandi Restaurant, Sharjah: Bait Al Mandi is a popular restaurant in Sharjah that serves traditional Emirati and Yemeni cuisine. The restaurant is known for its delicious mandi, a rice and meat dish that is cooked in a tandoor oven and served with a variety of sauces and chutneys.

05

Liwa Hotel, Liwa: Liwa Hotel is a luxury resort located in the Liwa Oasis in the western region of the UAE. The hotel features a traditional Emirati restaurant that serves a range of authentic Emirati dishes, including machboos, thareed, and saloona. The restaurant also offers traditional Emirati coffee and sweets.

4. Explore the city's attractions

A futuristic image of the Museum of the Future in Dubai, an architectural marvel that combines innovative design with cutting-edge technology to symbolize Dubai's commitment to progress and knowledge.

The UAE has many world-famous attractions, such as the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, and the Jebel Hafeet mountain in Al Ain. Visitors can spend the Eid holidays exploring these iconic landmarks and experiencing the best of the UAE.

01

Museum of the Future: This unique museum showcases cutting-edge technology and innovation, exploring how it can shape our future. It features interactive exhibits, workshops, and events.

02

Ain Dubai: This is the world's largest observation wheel, standing at a height of 250 meters. Visitors can take a ride on one of the 48 cabins and enjoy panoramic views of the city.

03

The Royal Atlantis Resort & Residences: This luxurious resort features world-class dining options, a private beach, and a variety of entertainment options. It also includes an underwater suite with floor-to-ceiling views of the aquarium.

04

Dubai Creek Harbour: This new development features a range of attractions, including the Dubai Creek Tower, which will become the tallest building in the world. It also includes a retail district, a cultural center, and a variety of residential options.

5. Attend Eid festivals and events

A dazzling spectacle of fireworks illuminating the night sky in the UAE during festivals and events, filling the air with bursts of color and joy, creating a breathtaking and memorable experience for spectators.

The UAE hosts various Eid festivals and events across the country, including fireworks displays, cultural performances, and children's activities. Visitors can attend these events to experience the festive atmosphere and immerse themselves in the local culture.

Here are some of the upcoming events that may take place during Eid al-Fitr

01

Fireworks displays: During the Eid al-Fitr holidays, many cities in the UAE put on spectacular fireworks displays to celebrate the end of Ramadan. Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah are some of the cities that typically host fireworks shows.

02

Eid Al Fitr Carnivals: Various amusement parks such as IMG Worlds of Adventure, Dubai Parks and Resorts and Ferrari World Abu Dhabi in the UAE have special carnival events that include live performances, festive decorations, and themed activities during the Eid al-Fitr holidays.

03

Special offers and discounts: During the Eid al-Fitr holidays, many shops, malls, and restaurants offer special promotions and discounts to celebrate the festival. These promotions often include deals on food, fashion, electronics, and more.

04

Cultural events: Many cultural centers and museums in the UAE also hold special events and exhibitions during Eid al-Fitr to celebrate the rich heritage of the UAE.

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