Today's Edition
SARA ALZAABI (SHARJAH)
Through the eyes of innocent children, Eid Al-Fitr is a world of pure happiness, brimming with laughter, traditions, and the excitement of receiving gifts.
Every year, the holiday creates core memories that fill their childhood with love and playful adventures. Speaking to Aletihad, young children shared what makes the celebration special for them - from collecting the traditional cash gifts called Eidiya to spending fun moments with people they love.
Nine-year-old Joory Al Zaabi woke up early for prayers on the first day of Eid, and she could clearly remember the new clothes she wore.
"I wore a light green Emirati dress in the morning and a white dress in the evening, both with a hint of oud and perfume," she recalled.
Indeed, it was a "magical time" for Joory. "Eid is a joy for every child in the whole world, especially when you receive a lot of Eidiyas," she said.
Turning those Eidiyas into special memories is the best part, Joory said. With her cash gifts, she said she would buy her favourite toys and visit popular attractions such as the Hanging Gardens in Kalba, Al Hefaiyah Lake, and the Rain Room in Sharjah.
Joory hoped plenty of Eidiyas would be given to every child in the world so their wishes could come true.
With a sparkle in her eyes, she added: "As for me, I hope to visit new places and finally get the toys I have been dreaming of."
'Luxury Car for Mum'
For her brother, Khalifa, 5, Eid is all about one thing: Eidiya.
"I greet everyone so I can get Eidiyas," he admitted with a playful grin, knowing that each greeting brings him closer to his favourite toys.
"These Eidiyas are going to buy lots of Sonic games, building blocks for my car garages, a whole big pack of assorted colourful chalk, and colouring sets," he said.
Khalifa already looks forward to going to the malls to play arcade games. And what is his wish for the next Eid? "More blue racing cars - and a black Lamborghini for my mum!" he said.
Meanwhile, four-year-old twins Ghala and Hoor Al Mesmari said Eid was all about the fun and laughter and, of course, their Eidiya.
"We love to go to playrooms on Eid, jumping in trampoline, and eating ice cream," they parrot together.
"We get our Eidiya to do all of the above!" they exclaimed.
Festival of Dreams
For five-year-old Meera Al Yammahi, Eid is a moment of great joy, a time for gifts, and a chance to shop."I love Eidiya so much because I can buy chocolates, candy, and toys," she said, brimming with happiness.
"Every year, I look forward to getting my Eidiya so I can pick whatever I love," Meera added.
Through the eyes of these young children, Eid is a festival of dreams - one with family, traditions, and simple joys of childhood.
