2nd April 2021
Eid Al Fitr is an the Islamic celebration where Muslim families get together to feast, pray, celebrate and exchange gifts.
When is Eid Al Fitr this year?
Eid Al Fitr immediately follows the holy month of Ramadan. The start of Eid Al Fitr is dependent upon the sighting of the crescent moon - this concludes the month of Ramadan. This year, Eid Al Fitr is anticipated to commence on the evening of Wednesday 12th May 2021. Eid Al Fitr literally means feast of fast-breaking and is usually a three day holiday.
How is Covid affecting Eid Al Fitr celebrations in the UAE?
Last year, due to Covid, people's plans for Eid were totally disrupted. People couldn't go to mosques, couldn't gather with friends and family and moved to online shopping. People adjusted their spending and were focusing on essential items.
This year, whilst restrictions do remain, people can better plan for Eid, having adjusted to Covid restrictions during the last year and having a much better idea of what to expect over last year. Iftar gatherings are again prohibited, so Iftar and Suhoor will continue to be just immediate family, same household, this year. Whilst mosques will be open this year for men, prayer halls for ladies will remain closed.
According to a Choueiri Group report, there is increased confidence amongst Muslims this year who are looking forward to Ramadan and Eid Al Fitr with hope. And, there is a much higher intention for spending on non-essentials.
What will Muslims be spending on this Eid?
This year, Eid shopping will include:
spending on gift items is expected to increase from 6% last year to 27%
spending on clothes, shoes and accessories is expected to increase from 8% to 31%
spending on beauty and personal care is expected to increase from 14% to 28%.
What are the top choices for Eid gifts this year?
More than two-thirds of Arab consumers plan to exchange gifts for Eid this year, with preferences being for:
Clothing [33%]
Chocolate and sweets [31%]
Toys [24%]
Money [20%]
Gateway Art Sales' Eid decor and Eid gift ideas
This year, Gateway Art Sales is delighted to offer our first ever collection of Eid gifts and decor. Comprising a mix of unique, hand crafted pieces of Eid wreaths (wall and door decor) and wood bead garlands; and, our stunning Arabia Collection of original paintings, limited edition giclee prints, greeting cards and gift items. The Arabia Collection comprises five colourful designs in modern abstract styles of Arabic culture by artist Taryn Brown.
What Eid gifts will you be purchasing this year? Take a few minutes to get inspired by our collection of gifts, greetings cards, home decor and art carefully curated especially for Eid in the UAE.
Eid Mubarak.
Written by Jenny Hunt
Founding Partner & CEO, Gateway Art Sales LLC & FORBES' Top 100 Most Influential Women In The Middle East