Eid Al Fitr 2020: Give Eidi online using these apps

The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) announced a list of 33 digital applications in the UAE to help residents take an important Eid tradition online - while staying safe.

Eidi refers to the cash gifts given to younger members of the family by parents or close relatives to mark the occasion.

However, as a precautionary measure against the spread of Covid-19, residents have been advised to go digital this year and use electronic means to celebrate the holiday instead.

#because_we_care #Digital_Eidiya Check the list of #online banking transfer Apps in #UAE https://t.co/qdDq3PyUUd pic.twitter.com/TkMa2vUdNK

- ???? ????? ????????? (@TheUAETRA) May 22, 2020

A list of 23 digital banking applications and 10 electronic wallets options through which Eidi can be transferred was published on the TRA's website.

The encouragement towards electronic means comes due to studies that indicate infections may be transferrable via exchange of banknotes, although the UAE Central Bank confirmed no major risk is posed.

Nevertheless, authorities have been urging residents not to take public health measures lightly in order to help them flatten the curve in the UAE.

UAE government spokesperson Amna Al Shamsi earlier advised residents to celebrate Eid virtually and avoid visiting families or holding gatherings. "Avoid giving Eidi to kids," she said. "Not even the money from ATMs. Use electronic means instead."

Earlier this month, the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) and Dubai Municipality also recommended that customers avoid using banknotes when shopping and use credit or debit cards as an alternative form of payment instead.

They were encouraged to sanitise and disinfect bank notes as a safety precaution to limit any potential spread, while banks were directed to replenish ATM machines with new notes.

Karen Ann Monsy

A ‘Dubai child’, Karen has been writing for magazines for close to a decade. She covers trends, community, social issues and human interest features. Whether it’s overcoming disability, breaking stereotypes or simply relating the triumphs of everyday lives, she seeks out those stories that can uplift, encourage and inspire. You can find her favourite work at www.clippings.me/karenannmonsy