Eid 2024 in UAE: Explore key developments in Gulf state on holy Islamic holiday

Eid al-Fitr signifies the end of the holy month of Ramadan. It is a celebratory occassion marked by morning prayers, family get-togethers, giving of gifts and charitable donations. This public holiday, several people take time off from professional engagements to take short trips.

The UAE is celebrating Eid 2024 today. The country’s Moon-sighting committee gathered on Monday to attempt to observe the crescent Moon. As the moon could not be sighted, Tuesday became the 30th and final day of Ramadan this year.

For the Emirati public sector, the holiday lasts seven days. Federal government staff have been paid leave from Monday to Sunday. There is no shortage of staycation deals to choose from for families eager to make the most of additional time off from professional lives.

Key developments in UAE on Eid 2024

1. Dubai school bringing people together

Thousands of Dubai residents came together this morning in the grounds of Al Salam Community School to attend prayers and celebrate Eid al-Fitr. The carnival-like atmosphere included a bouncy castle, henna corner and food and ice creams.

2. First birth recorded at 12:01 am

This Eid al-Fitr, Emirati Sultan Alshamsi and his Moroccan partner Rahma Hellab brought in baby Umair at 12:01 am at Burjeel Hospital in Abu Dhabi. Dr Khaled Omar, a specialist in obstetrics and gynaecology at the health centre, helped to deliver the infant.

3. Prayers centre on plight of Gazans

Thousands attended the first Eid prayers at one of Dubai’s busiest mosques in Jumeirah. There was a sense of joy in the air as people marked the end of Ramadan. But they admitted their thoughts kept coming back to those living in Gaza as the Israel-Hamas conflict continues.

4. UAE President calls for prosperity and progress

HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed performed Eid al-Fitr prayers at Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and congratulated Muslims on the occasion. “We pray that God continues to bestow his blessings on our nation and grants peace and harmony to the people of the world.”

5. UAE, Egypt send Eid clothing to Gazans

The UAE and Egypt recently delivered Eid clothing to scores of families in Gaza, as part of the 28th airdrop conducted under the joint operation. The Eid packages included shoes, toys and food – aimed at “alleviating the suffering” of Palestinians, as per the Ministry of Defence.