DUBAI // From live entertainment in malls to family barbecues in the park, people across the UAE will mark the end of Ramadan and celebrate the start of Eid Al Fitr on Wednesday.
Salons and clothes and sweets shops did brisk trade on Tuesday as people made their last-minute Eid preparations.
With forecasters predicting a hot and humid day, many are expected to take to the malls to enjoy time away from work and special Eid entertainment.
Among the highlights will be an international orchestra performing at City Centre Sharjah.
Giant puppets will entertain young and old with songs at Mall of the Emirates, while a choir of cat puppets will sing for shoppers at Deira City Centre.
But many residents said they would use the Eid break to escape the city and visit family.
“On the first day I plan to stay in Abu Dhabi with relatives but on the second day I will travel to Al Ain with family and stay the entire day,” said Hamid Abdullah, 24, an Emirati.
Hamid said he would take his family to Al Ain Zoo before a barbecue in Mubazzarah Park.
The country’s leaders have sent their wishes to the nation, and to leaders of other Arab states and Islamic countries.
The Rulers will join their people on Wednesday in morning prayers.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, will join worshippers for Eid prayers at Zabeel Mosque.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, will pray at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah, will attend prayers at Al Badee Mussala in Sharjah; Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mualla, Ruler of Umm Al Quwain, will attend prayers at the emirate’s Sheikh Zayed Mosque; Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, will be at the Grand Eid Mussala in Khuzam; while Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Ruler of Fujairah, will perform prayers at the emirate’s Sheikh Zayed New Mosque.
Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Ruler of Ajman, will attend prayers at Sheikh Rashid bin Humaid Mosque.
After morning prayers, some citizens will take advantage of the rich choice of attractions available in the country.
Saleh Mosa, 15, an Emirati, said he was hoping to spend his Eid break at Yas Waterworld and then in Dubai. “Eid is fun to meet and greet with relatives and get plenty of Ediah [Eid gifts].”
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