6 Traditional Gift Ideas for Eid Al Fitr | ExpatWoman.com
 

6 Traditional Gift Ideas for Eid Al Fitr

Join in the spirit of Eid Al Fitr by sharing these gifts with your favourite people...

Posted on

15 June 2017

Last updated on 14 January 2020
6 Traditional Gift Ideas for Eid Al Fitr

Eid Al Fitr is observed when the first new moon is sighted, which marks the end of the month-long, dawn-to-sunset fast for the Holy Month of Ramadan. 

It is a unique occasion on the Islamic calendar. Its significance is purely spiritual as Muslims thank Allah for having given them the strength, will and endurance to observe their fast throughout the Holy Month.

Originated by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), Eid Al Fitr - or Eid Ul Fitr - is observed on the first day of Shawwal, and is celebrated for one, two or three days. A common greeting during the festival is 'Eid Mubarak', which means 'Blessed Eid'. 

SEE ALSO: 6 ways to spend Eid in Dubai

There are many traditional rituals performed for Eid; fasting is forbidden, individuals must show their happiness, and to give as much as possible to charity. Muslims may also exchange gifts for Eid between their families and loved ones, and this is a ritual both Muslims and non-Muslims can enjoy in Dubai and the UAE. 

If gift-giving is something you'd like to get involved with for your own family or friends, here's a few ideas of traditional gifts you'll often find in Dubai and the UAE that they'll no doubt love! 

1. Dates

Perhaps one of the easiest and most commonly found gifts for both Ramadan and Eid are dates. They are a sweet part of Middle Eastern culture and play a prominent role during this time of year as they are believed to have many health benefits, like energy boosting. You'll find dates almost everywhere - in your local supermarket, Bateel shops and even at Deira Food Market. 

2. Oudh and Bakhoor

Anyone new in or visiting Dubai will no doubt notice a distinct aroma while exploring... More often than not, this will be the scent of the traditional oudh or bakhoor, a common scent you'll come across in Dubai and the UAE. Oudh is an expensive fragrance oil, that derives from agarwood resin, and is available in many gift-friendly forms. Bakhoor, on the other hand, is agarwood chips hat are burned to produce the aroma - a good alternative to candles and incense. 


Eid Gifts in Dubai

3. Pashmina Shawls

Real ones can be expensive, but their silky-softness and smooth fabric are totally worth it. Pashminas are made of cashmere, which is blended with silk to produce a soft and smooth fabric which makes a special gift for any woman in your life. 

4. Arabic Coffee Pot

The term 'Arabica coffee' gives credit to the long tradition of coffee farming in the Middle East. While it may not suit the taste of some, it is highly favourited by those who do love it.

SEE ALSO: How to make Eid special for the entire family this year

To ensure your loved one can enjoy the true Arabic coffee experience, why not buy them a copper Arabic coffee pot that are suitable for everyday use. Called 'dallah' these pots can also be used for decorative purposes. 

5. Spices

Dubai's spice souk is a treasure trove of rare spices that can't be found in supermarkets or anywhere else in the UAE. The recipient of this gift should love spices and know how to cook wih them!

6. A Book

Perfect for a child in your family, a book about Eid will no doubt lighten up their imagination and also introduce them to the festivities. Books like 'My Eid Mubarak Storybook' by Omer Naqi, 'Hassan and Aneesa Celebrate Eid' by Yasmeen Rahim and 'Celebrating Eid Ul Fitr' by Ama Fatima will no doubt be a welcome gift by any child - both Muslim and non-Muslim living here. 

 
 

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