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It’s festival time

After a month of fasting and prayers, Muslims in the UAE are welcoming the festival of Eid Al Fitr today.

Many residents say that Ramadan has taught them endurance and patience since the holy month fell during the peak of summer. Today, the trials have come to an end and residents are all set to celebrate the occasion with family and friends.

Khaleej Times caught up with a few residents who were gearing up for the festival.

Mohammed M. Tahir, an HR professional based in Dubai, said: “Eid means ‘festivity’, while Fitr means, ‘breaking the fast. This Ramadan has taught me to be more patient and it was a truly enriching experience. Fasting this summer was not an easy task, but it taught me the true meaning of the holy month.” Resident of Sharjah and veterinary doctor Sana Peeran said: “It’s not strictly a family affair but it’s a day for celebrations for everyone. Ramadan is over and it is a joyous occasion now. It’s when all of us get together, both Muslims and non-Muslims. It’s a festival to make merry with loved ones.” Twelve-year-old Fiza Nooran attempted fasting for the first time this Ramadan. “It was a hard month and I am happy that Eid is here. I am looking forward to meeting my family members and distributing sweets and gifts to all loved ones,” said Nooran.

Fiza’s mother Sania Nooran said: “As parents, we tried our best to teach her that Ramadan is not only about abstaining from food and water. But it is a deep and enriching spiritual experience and I hope she has learned from it.”

The festivities are not limited to the affluent and the families. Bangladeshi national Khurshid T, a construction worker, said: “I miss my family the most during Eid. They are back home in Dhaka. I will be celebrating this Eid with a few friends from work.”

dhanusha@khaleejtimes.com

• UAE