Eid Prayers at Al-Aqsa Mosque Amid Restrictions
As Ramadan comes to a close, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are ushering in Eid al-Fitr 2025 with a blend of traditional and modern festivities, marking the end of the holy month with joy and unity.
King Salman: Eid is a Day of Joy, Unity, and Gratitude for Allah’s Blessings
King Salman, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, extended his heartfelt Eid al-Fitr greetings to the citizens of Saudi Arabia, residents, and Muslims around the world. In a message delivered on Saturday evening, he expressed gratitude to Allah for the countless blessings bestowed upon the Kingdom, especially the honor of serving the Two Holy Mosques and facilitating the pilgrimage for millions of worshippers in safety and tranquility.
“We thank Allah Almighty for enabling millions of pilgrims to perform Umrah and visit the holy sites during the blessed month of Ramadan this year,” King Salman said. He also expressed appreciation for the dedicated efforts of Saudi men and women across various government sectors.
“Eid is a day of joy and happiness, where the values of compassion and unity shine,” he added, citing the Quranic verse: “And to complete the prescribed period and to glorify Allah for guiding you, so that you may be thankful.” King Salman concluded his message by praying that Allah bless the Kingdom, the Islamic world, and the entire globe with peace, security, stability, and prosperity.
Saudi Arabia’s Nationwide Festivities
In celebration of Eid al-Fitr, the General Entertainment Authority (GEA) of Saudi Arabia has launched “Eid Events 2025,” featuring a wide range of activities including concerts, theatrical performances, fireworks, and family-friendly events across the Kingdom’s entertainment zones. The celebrations began today at Riyadh’s Boulevard City, Boulevard World, VIA Riyadh, and Jeddah Art Promenade. Al-Khobar’s City Hub will join in tomorrow, with music concerts scheduled across cities like Riyadh, Shaqra, Abha, Qassim, Jeddah, and the Eastern Region.
Theatrical productions will be staged in Riyadh (April 1–19), Jeddah (April 1–6), and Dammam (April 1–3), while spectacular fireworks displays are planned at iconic locations such as Boulevard World in Riyadh, Jeddah Art Promenade, Al-Khobar Corniche, and Arruddaf Park in Taif at 9 p.m. These events highlight the GEA’s commitment to enhancing the festive spirit and advancing Saudi Arabia’s entertainment sector.
UAE’s Cultural and Community Celebrations
In the UAE, residents gathered in large numbers to celebrate Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan with prayers and festive gatherings. Worshippers attended mosques and open prayer grounds across the emirates, exchanging warm greetings and offering special Eid prayers in an atmosphere of unity and devotion.
Eid in the UAE is celebrated with a harmonious blend of cultural traditions and modern festivities. The celebrations began with the Eid prayer (Salat al-Eid), held shortly after sunrise at mosques and open prayer grounds nationwide, including prominent locations like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi. Families came together to share lavish meals featuring traditional dishes such as biryani, harees, and maamoul, reinforcing bonds and community spirit. Children eagerly received “Eidiya,” monetary gifts from elders symbolizing blessings and goodwill.
Public spaces were alive with events, including fireworks displays at iconic sites like Burj Khalifa and Yas Island, cultural performances, and family-friendly activities that showcased the UAE’s rich heritage and commitment to inclusivity.
Eid Prayers at Al-Aqsa Mosque Amid Restrictions
In Jerusalem, the first Friday of Ramadan saw limited access for older Palestinians to the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound. Israeli authorities permitted men over 55, women over 50, and children up to age 12 from the West Bank to attend prayers, subject to security screenings. The Palestinian Authority criticized these restrictions, asserting they violate Israel’s obligations as an occupying power. Despite the limitations, worshippers gathered at this sacred site, which holds profound significance in Islam, to observe the holy month.
As Eid al-Fitr unfolds, these celebrations across the Arab world reflect the enduring spirit of unity, gratitude, and cultural richness that defines this auspicious occasion.
