Eid Mubarak: Friday Marks First Day of Eid Al Fitr in the UAE
Hey everyone in the UAE, the Eid cookies are still warm, and we can finally take a breath after a blessed month of reflection. The news we've all been waiting for is finally here, and it's as exciting as a kid getting their Eidiya. The authorities didn't keep us in suspense for long, making an official announcement: after tonight's moon sighting committees couldn't spot the crescent, Thursday will complete the month of Ramadan. This means that Friday, March 20, 2026 marks the first day of Shawwal and the beginning of Eid Al Fitr for the entire Islamic community. Eid Mubarak to you and your family—may this celebration bring you health and blessings.
Friday is Eid Across the Gulf
It's not just us celebrating on Friday; all the Gulf nations are united in this. Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain have all made the same call—the crescent wasn't sighted this evening, making Thursday the final day of Ramadan, with Eid following on Friday. It's wonderful news, bringing shared joy to every home from Sharjah to Doha, and from Riyadh to Manama. Some sources noted that the moon was technically visible through telescopes in certain areas, but the countries have adhered to the proper sharia-compliant sighting, confirming Friday as the day.
Heartfelt Eid Messages for Family and Friends
As soon as the clock strikes midnight, we're reaching for our phones to send out Eid greetings. We've rounded up some lovely phrases perfect for everyone, whether it's for your family or your colleagues. Here’s a collection of greetings to share with your loved ones:
- Eid Mubarak to you and your family.. May God bring this occasion back to us all with goodness, blessings, and prosperity.
- May God accept our prayers and good deeds, fill your heart with joy this Eid, and bring us together in goodness every year.
- Wishing you a blessed Eid. May you always be closer to God, and may all your days be filled with happiness and contentment.
- With the Eid takbeers, I send you my warmest wishes. Wishing you all the best on this special day.
Eid Traditions and Etiquette: Completing the Joy
Eid is more than just new clothes and outings; it's about following the sunnah and spreading love. Before you head out for prayers, don't forget the Prophet's ﷺ traditions: apply perfume, use a miswak, wear your best clothes, and take one route to the prayer ground and another back home, so the earth itself bears witness for you. On the morning of Eid, it's also sunnah to eat a few dates before the prayer, breaking your fasting routine and marking the end of the holy month. Other cherished traditions include reciting the takbeer from Fajr prayer until the time of the Eid prayer, and paying Zakat al-Fitr before leaving for the prayer ground.
Eid Prayers: When to Go?
Eid prayers in the UAE will be held about 15 to 20 minutes after sunrise, which is typically around 6:30 a.m. The khateebs will take to the pulpit to congratulate the worshippers and remind everyone of their duty to God. The prayer consists of two rak'ahs, with seven takbeers in the first after the opening takbeer, and five in the second—a well-established practice from the Prophet ﷺ.
Eid in the UAE: A Truly Special Feeling
Eid here has its own unique vibe. The majlises open their doors from early morning, Arabic coffee and dates are laid out on the table, and children are dressed in their finest kanduras and jalabiyas. In Dubai and Abu Dhabi, public spaces and malls are buzzing with activity as families head to parks and gardens. It's a day of pure joy, a day to leave your worries behind and reconnect with the people you love. Wishing you all a wonderful celebration—Eid Mubarak to everyone!