Today's Edition
SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
There's nothing like celebrating Eid Al-Fitr in the UAE, expats hailing from different parts of the world told Aletihad. Here, the festival takes on different shades of culture and the diversity is embraced across the country.
With the UAE's "multicultural vibe", marking Eid goes beyond local traditions, said Indian resident Vinay Chingachem Veettil.
"There are Indian, Pakistani, Filipino, and African celebrations happening all around. We see a mix of people visiting mosques, trying different cuisines, and enjoying Eid sales. Plus, companies often give holidays, so it's a great time to relax or explore festive events in the city," he said.
All the different cultural strands of the UAE make Eid "truly a worldwide celebration" in the country, said another Indian expat Archana Pathiyil.
Speaking on the importance of cultural exchange, Pathiyil said: "By sharing culture and local delicacies from different nationalities, we not only honour our own traditions but also connect with others. It is a beautiful way to celebrate the richness of our diversity."
Badr Honainy, a Syrian expat, agreed that the different traditions from across the globe make the holiday a lot more special.
"It is always good to see how people from different cultures here celebrate Eid. They bring unique flavours and traditions to the occasion," he said. Like most people, Honainy spent the holiday with his wife and friends and called up his loved ones back home.
Maroun Farah, a Lebanese expatriate, said that while the festival is mainly a time for family, it has also become an opportunity to get a feel of the multicultural environment in the country.
"The UAE's melting pot of cultures has enriched our understanding of different customs and fostered tolerance along the way," Maround said, adding that this had made the UAE feel like home for his family.
"This Eid, my family and I took a getaway to Ras Al Khaimah and spent two nights at a resort on Marjan Island. It was the perfect backdrop for our celebrations," he said.
Time to Reflect
Non-Muslim expats value the opportunity to experience the spirit of Eid while spending quality time with their families and friends. Mary Jane Yongzon, a Filipino expat who is a Catholic, marks the festival by exploring the country with her loved ones.
"I celebrate by gathering with my family and friends, meeting them in person, and visiting some of the beautiful and scenic places around the UAE," she said.
"Eid gives one time to reflect, relax and enjoy quality time with family and friends while immersing ourselves in the multicultural environment here," she added.
Another resident, Jasna Ashar, said it has always been a pleasant experience to "celebrate any special occasion with friends and colleagues regardless of religion or culture".
