The Islamic holiday of Eid al-Fitr celebrates the completion of the holy month of Ramadan, during which Muslims fast from dawn till sunset. Since it is determined by the Islamic lunar calendar, the exact dates of Ramadan change every year. At the end of Ramadan, when a new moon is seen, celebrations of Eid al-Fitr can finally begin.
Celebrations of Eid al-Fitr, a holiday celebrated by Muslims worldwide, often span two or three days. Traditional prayer services at mosques, visits with family and friends, and abundant feasts are hallmarks of most countries’ holidays. It is customary for some to give gifts to one another during this time. Still, everyone is expected to give to the needy (Zakat al-Fitr) so that everyone can take part in the festivities.
We look at some of the best places globally to celebrate Eid al-Fitr, from Morocco to Singapore.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Dubai is jubilant during Eid al-Fitr. The most lavish Eid celebrations are here, from fireworks to massive Iftar banquets to sunset fast-breaking.
Dubai Opera Iftar is a unique experience. You may break your fast with excellent food throughout Ramadan in the magnificent Dubai Opera. Classical Arabic music will accompany the chefs’ authentic Iftar buffet.
Visit Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque for more mosques. This vast mosque has over 82 domes, 1,000 columns, and the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet.
Singapore
Eid al-Fitr, often called “Hari Raya Aidilfitri” or “Hari Raya Puasa” in Singapore, is a happy occasion. The Geylang Serai district, one of the oldest Malay towns in Singapore, is ablaze with fantastic celebrations during this time of year, making it one of the most significant times to travel there.
Geylang Serai offers tantalizing halal food as well as dazzling lighting and décor. With dozens of different kinds of lights and installations lighting the streets, it is a kaleidoscope of color. For celebratory fare, visit the Bazaar. Thousands of food stalls serve mouthwatering traditional Malay foods in honor of Eid al-Fitr.
There is much to see outside the Geylang Serai, from the lovely Arab Quarter and the gold-domed Sultan Mosque in the Kampong Gelam neighborhood to the beautiful Gardens by the Bay.
Turkey
Eid al-Fitr is known as ‘Seker Bayram’ or Candy Festival in Turkey. During Ramadan celebrations, there are many sweet sweets, such as baklava and Turkish delight, as well as other traditional meals. You’ll also enjoy hot, sunny weather, with many residents traveling to the lovely Turkish beaches to celebrate Eid al-Fitr. Swimming, fishing, and relaxing on the sandy shoreline are popular family activities.
Many people and families attend their local mosques throughout Ramadan and Eid. In Istanbul, you must view the famous Blue Mosque or Sultan Mosque. If you travel during Ramadan, the month preceding Eid al-Fitr, you can also wake up early to see the Ramadan drummers perform at daybreak. They wander the streets, rousing folks for sahur, the last meal before the day’s fast.
Morocco
Due to its unique cultural experiences, Morocco is one of the best locations to celebrate Eid al-Fitr. The nation is renowned for its lively cities, such as Fez, Casablanca, and Marrakech. During Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr, they become even more active at night.
Marrakech’s main square, Djemaa el-Fna, is bustling with markets, amusement, and food stalls selling traditional cuisine. Families frequently throng the streets to break their fast and enjoy iftar together. You can visit magnificent mosques such as the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, listen to religious sermons, or participate in prayers. During Ramadan, Fez is also an excellent destination to visit. There are historic mosques, street markets selling cuisine, and spiritual events throughout the month.
Malaysia
Malaysia should be on your list if you want to spend Ramadan in a place with warm weather. As a place where most people are Muslim, Eid al-Fitr is a big deal in Malaysia. This vital holiday brings together a warm and welcoming community to celebrate. Eid, also called Hari Raya, is when millions of people go back to their hometowns to celebrate with their families. This is called “balik kampung,” and it is a time for friends and food.
In Kuala Lumpur, there are many religious events, bazaars, and markets where you can get safe food and break your daily fast with the locals. There are also churches and Islamic buildings all over the city. You can visit the Islamic Arts Museum, the biggest museum of Islamic art in South East Asia. During Eid in Malaysia, you can take a break in a city or go to the beaches of Penang and Langkawi. You’ll find the right mix of faith and relaxation.
Where will you be this year for Eid al-Fitr? Tell us in the comments section below!
