Check out our guide on what to do in Dubai for Eid al Adha 2019
There are two main Eid events in the Islamic calendar every year. Eid al-Fitr has already taken place, marking the end of the daily fasting through the month of Ramadan.
The second Eid in the Islamic calendar, Eid al-Adha, is next up, and is approaching fast! This is a special time for Muslims all over the world, marking the end of Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca and a chance to celebrate the Festival of the Sacrifice. There is no better place to celebrate than Dubai.
When is Eid al-Adha this year?
Dates depend on an official sighting of the new moon, but the lunar calendar gives us a clue as to when that will happen, and this is expected to be Sunday 11th August 2019.
Dubai’s Federal Authority for Government Human Resources has already announced the Eid al-Adha holidays for the private and public sector in the UAE. Eid Al Adha will be celebrated on 10, 11, and 12 of the Islamic month. And because Eid Al Adha comes hot on the heels of Arafat Day, everyone in Dubai is going to get a 4 day holiday!
What to do during Eid al-Adha?
On Eid al-Adha, Muslims like to do things that are keeping with the Prophet’s Sunnah, which is the body of traditional customs and practices of the Islamic community.
First and foremost, this means waking up early and having breakfast, before performing Eid prayers. It also means wishing everyone a happy Eid by shaking hands, embracing and saying “Eid Mubarak” or “Eid Saeed”. It’s such a lovely custom and one that makes Eid feel really special and memorable.
Eid al-Adha is all about generosity. The giving of gifts is a crucial element of the experience, especially here in Dubai. The malls and souks are a great place to start when it comes to finding gorgeous gifts for loved ones, and many hold amazing sales during Eid al-Adha. Look out for special promotions as the holiday approaches, with massive discounts % off dining, shopping and entertainment.
Where to go?
The Dubai Mall puts on host of special activities for the whole family to celebrate Eid, with
Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, KidZania, Dubai Ice Rink, VR Park and complimentary experiences including Dubai Dino and Dubai Fountains.
Elsewhere in Dubai, people will be spilling out into the streets to celebrate. You can expect a jaw-dropping series of firework displays lighting up the night sky, with more events at Dubai Festival City and The Beach.
For family fun, and since Eid is all about family, you take a trip to visit Dubai Parks and Resorts, IMG Worlds of Adventure or Hub Zero in City Walk. You can also find a lot of fun family activities planned across the city malls (during summer, indoor is always welcomed!) like Mercato.
And if golf’s your thing, a number of golf-courses offer special promotions for Eid. Check out The Els Club and Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club if you fancy pushing the boat out with a round you’ll never forget.
Dine
Last year, Dubai’s best eateries put on a host of brilliant Eid deals. Names like Armani Hotel, Garden on 8, Ewaan and Loumi Restaurant cater to all tastes and budgets.
For a really special treat, check out Pierchic, set on the water with a breathtaking view of the Burj Al Arab. It perhaps the most romantic dining spot in the city, perfect for celebrating Eid with that special person in your life!
A chance to give back
Eid is a time of celebration and chance to come together with family and friends and spend quality time together. But the true spirit of Eid is best expressed in generosity to people who need it most.
Charity or “zakat” is one of the five pillars of Islam, and it’s particularly important during Ramadan and the Eids. So remember to give back to make this Eid extra an extra special and rewarding experience.
Focus on what’s important
Whilst there is a lot of do in Dubai for Eid, it doesn’t mean you have to spend like crazy. Eid is also a great time to take it easy, spend time with your loved ones and reflect on your plans for the future. Remember, the very best things in life are free!
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