How To Celebrate Eid al-Fitr: Step-by-Step Guide

by Barbara Yakimchuk

How To Celebrate Eid al-Fitr: Step-by-Step Guide

22 Mar 2025

Eid is almost here! While there are still seven days left in the holy month of Ramadan and Eid is expected at the very end of March, it is never too early to start preparing for one of the region’s most cherished celebrations. What are the must-do traditions? And what should you try eating? Find out below!

Eid 2025: What it is and when to celebrate

Eid, or Eid al-Fitr, is celebrated at the end of the holy month of Ramadan, marking the symbolic end of fasting. It is important to note that there are actually two Eids throughout the year — the other being Eid al-Adha, which this year is expected to take place on 7th June. Known as the Festival of Sacrifice, Eid al-Adha commemorates the devotion of Prophet Ibrahim.

As for Eid al-Fitr, the exact date is still uncertain. It will be either:

March 30 to April 1, if Ramadan lasts 29 days
March 31 to April 2, if Ramadan lasts 30 days

Typically, the UAE government announces the exact dates a few days before the celebration.

Charity and prayers: The two essentials of Eid

Charity and Prayer are the two main pillars of the al-Fitr. One is connected to the other — they cannot exist separately.

Charity

Before the main Eid prayer, held in the morning, Muslims give Zakat al-Fitr, a form of charity that ensures everyone can join in the celebrations. This is mandatory for those who can afford it and is usually given in the form of money or food. It is typically done at sunset on the last day of Ramadan. However, the most important detail here is the deadline — it must be given before the Eid al-Fitr morning prayer to make sure those in need can celebrate as well.

If you are unsure how much to give, you can use a Zakat al-Fitr calculator (there are plenty of options out there, like this one). It helps determine the amount you should provide based on key Islamic principles. All you need to do is take an honest look at your financial situation — your money, business investments (and even gold and silver). The standard Zakat rate is usually considered to be 2.5% of eligible assets.

Photo: Getty Images

Prayers

The most important prayer during this celebration is Salah al-Eid, performed on the morning of Eid. It consists of two units (rak'ahs) and differs from the usual Friday prayers. This prayer symbolizes unity and gratitude within the Muslim community. After the prayer the celebrations starts — people gather together, greet one another, and celebrate Eid al-Fitr.

Traditional Eid meals

Who better to tell us about Eid dishes than a Palestinian chef who specialises in long Levantine tables? I think no one! That is why we asked Chef Ahmad Halawa, to share some insights regarding Eid celebrations and meals. Living in Dubai, he hosts supper clubs, private gatherings, and corporate events in his home, with both indoor and outdoor spaces perfect for celebrations.

So, what are the must-have dishes during Eid, and how does he celebrate this special holiday?

— How did you use to spend Eid when you were a child?

— Eid is all about family, food, and tradition. Growing up, we had a ritual — every year, we would start the day by visiting my aunt’s house, where she would cook Mansaf, a national Jordanian dish made with lamb, rice, and a tangy yoghurt sauce poured over the top. And to this day, my first meal on Eid is always Mansaf — unless I am travelling. It just wouldn’t feel like Eid without it!

— What are the must-have Eid dishes?

— Besides Mansaf, another essential is Knafeh. It is made with thin, crispy, shredded phyllo dough, layered with melted cheese or a creamy filling, baked until golden, then soaked in sugar syrup and topped with crushed pistachios. Eid and Knafeh go hand in hand — it is the ultimate festive dessert.

Then there’s Ma’amoul — a homemade buttery cookies stuffed with dates or pistachios. Every household has its own version, and they are usually enjoyed in the morning when visiting family and friends.

— How does your day during Eid go?

— The first part of the day is all about visiting close relatives — we go from house to house, greeting everyone and celebrating together. Then comes lunch with Mansaf, and the evening is spent with more family, friends, and, of course, good food.

Photos: @chefhalawa

Another traditional food that takes centre stage during Eid celebrations are Luqaimat —crispy, golden dumplings; Harees — a porridge-like dish made with wheat, meat, and butter; and Machboos, a spiced rice dish with meat or seafood.

Photos: Ahmed; @hareesalfareej @mchboos_house

All these recipes are available online and fairly easy to make, but if you are not in the mood for cooking, plenty of restaurants offer special Eid lunches — some have already announced their festive menus!

Photos: @avlu.restaurant @mimimeifair.ae @sorayaabudhabi

Decorations as a part of festival

Like all major festivals, Eid calls for festive decorations. While many Muslims keep their décor up throughout Ramadan, if you have not had the chance to decorate yet, Eid is the perfect occasion to do so. The decorations are simple yet meaningful, often featuring moons, lights and stars. Many families, especially those with children, enjoy decorating together, making it a great way to spend quality time with loved ones.

You can easily order decorations from Amazon or Noon, but I suggest checking out Pinterest for inspiration to create a beautiful, joyful atmosphere for your Eid celebrations!

Pinterest: @Eleganzia; @SadiyahJahan ;@aymun k

by Barbara Yakimchuk