ISLAMABAD: From the deserts of Arabia to the streets of Europe, Eid is a time when Muslims come together in prayer, joy, and heartfelt traditions.
Here’s a glimpse of how this sacred celebration unfolds in different corners of the world — each with its own colour, flavour, and rhythm.
Saudi Arabia
Eid in the Kingdom begins with mass prayers outside grand mosques, followed by family gatherings. Children receive Eidiya (money gifts), and traditional dishes like Kabsa and dates are shared.
The streets are filled with fragrance, hospitality, and warm greetings of Eid Mubarak.
United Arab Emirates
Families dress in their best jalabiyas and kanduras for early morning Eid prayers.
Malls and homes are decorated, and Emiratis celebrate with fireworks, traditional dances like Al Ayala, and generous feasts. Cultural centres host special events to revive heritage crafts and storytelling.
Egypt
In Cairo, Eid mornings are marked with colourful prayer mats covering public parks.
Families flock to the Nile banks for boat rides and enjoy sweet treats like kahk (buttery Eid cookies stuffed with nuts or dates). Children play in the streets wearing new clothes and waving balloons.
Nigeria
Eid in Nigeria is a vibrant mix of faith and festivity. In cities like Kano and Lagos, Muslims attend grand prayers in embroidered robes and caps.
The Durbar Festival features royal horse parades and drumming, blending Islamic celebration with deep-rooted Hausa tradition.
Kenya
In coastal cities like Mombasa, the Swahili Muslim community marks Eid with family picnics by the ocean, henna painting for women, and spicy delicacies like biryani and pilau.
It is common for communities to organise charitable meals for the less fortunate.
Indonesia
Home to the world’s largest Muslim population, Indonesia calls Eid Lebaran.
After prayers, people perform Halal Bihalal — asking forgiveness from elders. Families visit graves and share ketupat (rice dumplings in palm leaves). The festive mood often lasts for a week.
Pakistan
Eid begins with the aroma of sheer khurma (a sweet milk and date dish). Streets buzz with laughter, kids collect Eidi, and families dress in festive shalwar kameez.
Visiting relatives and hosting lavish lunches is a central part of the celebration.
Bangladesh
In Dhaka and beyond, Eid morning kicks off with congregational prayers, followed by exchanging homemade sweets like semai.
Tailors work overtime in the days leading up to Eid, as everyone wears new clothes. Rural and urban celebrations share one thing: unmatched hospitality.
Turkiye
Known as Ramazan Bayramı, Eid in Turkiye blends Islamic and Ottoman heritage. Children kiss elders’ hands for blessings, and are rewarded with candies and coins.
Traditional treats like baklava and lokum (Turkish delight) take centre stage in family feasts.
Bosnia and Herzegovina
In Sarajevo, mosques echo with tekbir as families gather for Eid prayers. Cemeteries are visited to honour martyrs. Coffee is brewed, and homemade pastries like hurmašice and pita are shared. The day is filled with reflection, unity, and joy.
From bustling cities to quiet villages, Eid connects over a billion hearts in celebration with faith, family, and food at its core.
