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The fragrance of good thoughts and good deeds are in the air with dedicated prayers echoing everywhere this holy month of Ramadan. The thirty days of self discipline and sublime sacrifice would be bringing a meaningful end upon the sight of crescent moon.
Muslims all over the world anticipate this day with awe and pleasure. Eid ul-Fitr or Id-Ul-Fitr (Arabic: عيد الفطر ‘Īdu l-Fiṭr) is the celebration that marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. Eid ul-Fitr is a three day celebration and is called ‘The Smaller Eid'. Since the day depends on the sighting of the moon or scientific calculations, the exact date varies from country to country.
Common greetings during this holiday are the Arabic greeting Eid mubarak (‘Blessed Eid') or ‘Id sa‘id (‘Happy Eid'). In addition, many countries have their own greetings based on local language and traditions.
Typically, Muslims will wake up early in the morning and have a small breakfast. Muslims are encouraged to dress in their best clothes (new if possible) and to attend a special Eid prayer that is performed in congregation at mosques or open areas like fields, squares etc. When Muslims finish their fast at the last day (29th or 30th Ramadan), they recite Takbir:
Allahu akbar, Allahu akbar, Allahu akbar, الله أكبر الله أكبر الله أكبر
la ilaha illa Allah لا إله إلا الله
Allahu akbar, Allahu akbar الله أكبر الله أكبر
wa li-illahi al-hamd ولله الحمد
God is the Greatest, God is the Greatest, God is the Greatest,
There is no deity but God
God is the Greatest, God is the Greatest
and to God goes all praise
The Takbir is recited after confirmation that the moon of Shawwal is sighted on the eve of the last day of Ramadan. It continues until the start of the Eid prayer. Before the Eid prayer begins, every Muslim who is able must pay Zakat al-fitr, alms for the month of Ramadan. This equates to about 2 kg of a basic foodstuff (wheat, barley, dates, raisins, etc.), or its cash equivalent, and is typically collected at the mosque. This is distributed to needy local Muslims prior to the start of the Eid prayer. It can be given at any time during the month of Ramadan and is often given early, so the recipient can use it for Eid purchases. This is distinct from Zakat based on wealth, which must be paid to a worthy charity.
The Eid prayer (salah) is followed by the khutbah (sermon) and then a prayer (dua') asking for forgiveness, mercy and help for the plight of Muslims across the world. The khutbah also instructs Muslims as to the rituals of Eid, such as the zakat. It is then customary to embrace the persons sitting on either side of oneself. People will also visit their relatives, friends and acquaintances. Eid is a time where Muslims all around the world engage in thanking Allah for giving us strength to fast through the month and bestowing his blessings upon us. It is also a time to share food with others, and spend time with friends and family. After the prayers, some people will pay visit to the graveyards (ziyarat al-qubur).
'Eid in Dubai'
Dubai is set to become the region's premiere destination for Eid celebrations, ‘Eid in Dubai' is a new initiative that will further strengthen the city's position as the leisure, tourism and cultural hub of the Middle East. 'It's all about showing the world Dubai's unique way of celebrating Eid. Dubai government will be highlighting some of the true traditions of celebrating Eid in addition to presenting a comprehensive festivities programme to attract celebrating families locally and regionally. 'Eidakom Mubarak, which is wishing a blessed Eid for every one, will be used widely in the service and hospitality sectors for welcoming all visitors to further spread the Eid spirit among all.
'Eid in Dubai' is being organized with National Bonds as a Founder Sponsor, in addition to ARY Jewelry, Dubai Festival City, Emirates and Dubai World Trade Centre as Key Sponsors, and in association with Dubai Shopping Malls Group (DSMG) and Dubai Gold and Jewelry Group. The event will present a comprehensive entertainment package that includes:
- Barney's Musical Castle Show:
Barney is popular around the world as the fun-loving purple dinosaur cartoon character in the children's television show Barney & Friends. Targeted at children and families, the Barney's Musical Castle Show will incorporate elements of the television series to present an edutainment show that will appeal to all during Eid.
- Return of the Phoenix by Rahbani Brothers:
In its first Debut out of Lebanon, the critically acclaimed Musical saga Return of the Phoenix will be one of the main highlights of Eid in Dubai. Written, composed and directed by the famous Rahbani Family, this master peace is a sure crowd puller for all genders and nationalities, and a great way of spending a family Eid evening.
- International Concerts:
Featuring a combination of Arab, Persian, and Asian star artists, various concerts during Eid will be held to suit the tastes of all music lovers. Spanning different genres, these concerts will enhance the spirit of 'Eid in Dubai'.
- Children Theatrical Plays:
Kids will also have their share of fun as Eid in Dubai will feature several entertaining theatrical performances for children. Local and regional theatre hits will add excitement and joy to all children celebrating Eid in Dubai.
- Festival District at Dubai Festival City:
Accommodating fun-filled activities during 'Eid in Dubai', the Festival District will feature as one among the main entertainment venues during the event, hosting family oriented activities and cultural programmes.
- Parks and Heritage and Diving Village Events:
Dubai's numerous parks and the Heritage and Diving Village host Eid events every year and in the first edition of 'Eid in Dubai', these venues will be additional great family venues through the Eid Celebrations.
- Eid Fireworks:
Fireworks are a hallmark of festivities in Dubai and it will now lend its dazzling colours to 'Eid in Dubai' by lighting up the night sky each evening during Eid. The spectacular fireworks show will be held at the Dubai Festival City waterfront and go on for twenty minutes.
- Fuwallat-Al-Eid - Eid Confectionery Platter:
Whether in Dubai Airport, Shopping Malls or the main venues of the Event, visitors will be greeted with a warm Eid welcome and a wholeheartedly smile while being offered Arabic incense and sweets in addition to Fuwallat-Al-Eid.
Fuwallat-Al-Eid is a custom that has been recorded in local tradition spanning many generations. It is centered on welcoming guests on the day of Eid-Al-Fitr with Eid food and sweets.
- Eid Promotions:
Eid shopping is another long lasting Eid tradition, where families rush to buy gifts, clothes, jewelry and various other offerings. Eid in Dubai will boost Eid Shopping by presenting a range of tempting promotions that will span across the last two weeks of Ramadan building up to Eid days.
Shopping malls, Hotels, and members of Dubai Gold and Jewelry Group will dress up for the occasion to reflect the joyous spirit of Eid while retail shops will attract shoppers with bargains specially designed for Eid. Jewelry enthusiasts can also look forward to dazzling gold promotions organized by key retailers within the Gold and Jewelry Industry
May Allah grant us all the true spirit of Eid. Aameen!
By: Shabina Sanad
GOWEALTHY.COM © 2008
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