Eid Mubarak Everyone! Friday Marks the First Day of Eid al-Fitr in the UAE
Hello to everyone in the UAE, the Eid biscuits are practically still warm, and we're all feeling that mix of tiredness and pride after a holy month. Well, the news we've all been waiting for came through tonight, and it's brought joy to our hearts, the kind of joy a kid gets on receiving their Eidiya. The official authorities didn't keep us waiting long and made the formal announcement: after the moon sighting committees didn't spot the new crescent tonight, Thursday will complete the 30 days of Ramadan. This means that Friday, March 20th, 2026 marks the first day of Shawwal and the first day of Eid al-Fitr for the entire Islamic nation. Eid Mubarak to you all, may God bring it back to us in health and blessings.
Friday Marks the First Day of Eid Across the Gulf
It's not just us celebrating Eid on Friday; all the Gulf nations are united in this. Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain have all announced the same: the crescent wasn't sighted this evening, making Thursday the last day of Ramadan, with Eid following the next day. It's wonderful news that unites the joy in every home, from Sharjah to Doha, and from Riyadh to Manama. Some sources indicated the moon was technically visible by telescope in some areas, but the countries only relied on a proper, shar'i sighting, so we're all set for Friday.
The Most Beautiful Eid al-Fitr Greetings for Family and Friends
As soon as the clock strikes the first minute of Eid, we'll be reaching for our phones to send out greetings. We've picked out some lovely phrases that suit everyone, whether it's for your family or your colleagues. Here's a selection of greetings to share with all:
- Eid Mubarak to you and your family.. May God bring it back to us all with goodness, blessings, and prosperity.
- May God accept our deeds, complete your joy with Eid, and bring us together in goodness every year.
- Blessed Eid to you, and may you always be closer to God. Wishing you days filled with happiness and contentment.
- With the Eid takbeers, I send you my sincerest wishes. Wishing you a year filled with nothing but goodness.
Traditions and Etiquettes of Eid... The Finishing Touches to Your Celebration
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 a different one back, 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 fast-like state and marking the end of the holy month. Other traditions include saying the takbeer from after Fajr prayer until the time of the Eid prayer, and giving Zakat al-Fitr before leaving for the prayer ground.
Eid Prayer... What Time Is It?
Eid prayer in the UAE is typically held about 15 minutes after sunrise, which will be around 6:30 AM. The imams will take to the pulpit to congratulate the worshippers and remind them of their duty to God. The prayer consists of two rak'ahs; in the first, there are seven extra takbeers after the opening takbeer, and in the second, there are five extra. This is an established practice from the Prophet ﷺ.
Eid in the UAE... A Celebration Like No Other
Eid here has its own unique flavour. The majlises open their doors from early morning, Arabic coffee and dates are laid out on the dastar, and children are dressed in their finest kanduras and jalabiyas. In Dubai and Abu Dhabi, public spaces and shopping centres are buzzing with activity, and families head to the parks and beaches. It's a day of joy, a day to forget your worries and reconnect with your loved ones. Eid Mubarak to you all, and wishing everyone a blessed and happy Eid.