On May 2, 2022, Muslims across the globe will mark the end of Ramadan by observing Eid al-Fitr, one of the two most important holidays in the Islamic faith. This one-to-three-day celebration, which translates to “Festival of Breaking the Fast,” honors the successful completion of Ramadan’s fasting commitments. Here are five ways to celebrate Eid al-Fitr in Saudi Arabia in 2022:
Extend Eid Greetings: Eid festivities in the Kingdom may vary culturally depending on the region, but one common thread in all celebrations is generosity and hospitality. The simplest way to do that is to extend Eid greetings. “Eid Mubarak” is the most common greeting to give someone celebrating Eid and translates to “blessed feast/festival.” You can also say “Kol ‘Am Wan Antum Bekhair,” which translates to “May every year find you in good health!”
Wear New Clothing: For special events and holidays, it is customary for many to wear new outfits. It is typical for men to wear a “thawb” or a long tunic with trousers, and women often wear a traditional Jalabiya. Wearing a Jalabiya has recently become associated with Ramadan and is a staple in every Saudi woman’s wardrobe. You can purchase one at bazaars and stalls in shopping malls or on various Saudi online shopping websites.
Textiles and clothing for sale at Dirah Souk in Riyadh. Source: AboutHer
Take Advantage of Restaurant Offers: As with any other global holiday, Eid al-Fitr is an opportunity for families, friends, and colleagues to gather and celebrate through the common language of food. Restaurants and other food establishments take advantage by offering discounted meals, set course menus, and exclusive Eid food items. Be sure to call your favorite restaurant to inquire on availability, pricing, and specialty menus!
Enjoy the Fireworks: In recent years, Saudi Arabia has amped up its extravagant fireworks displays to celebrate Eid al-Fitr. If you are in Riyadh, be sure to visit the King Fahd Stadium for the ultimate viewing experience, starting at 11:00 PM. Jeddah’s Corniche will also offer an exciting display over the city’s waterfront at 9:00 PM.
A fireworks show at Jeddah Seasons 2019. Source: AboutHer
Jeddah Season 2022: the latest tourist “Season” in Saudi Arabia kicks off in Jeddah on May 2 and will include 60 days of shows, exhibitions, interactive experiences, and special events at restaurants, shops, and bazaars around Jeddah. With 2,800 events across nine special zones of the city, highlighted by concerts, theatrical plays, a science festival, Fuzion by Cirque du Soleil, the country’s biggest zoo (at Jeddah Jungle Zone), a Comic-Con event, and art fairs, Jeddah Season 2022 will undoubtedly be an exciting kickoff to the end of Ramadan. For a comprehensive list of events and promotions, click here to download the official brochure (Arabic) or visit Jeddah Season’s website.
Tickets for Cirque du Soleil start from SAR85 and go up to SAR275, and the show will run from May 2 to May 28 at King Abdullah Sports City. You can reserve your tickets for the shows online and at various Virgin stores in Al Nakheel Mall, Panorama Mall, Hayat Mall, and Riyadh Park.
A past Cirque du Soleil show in Riyadh. Source: Arab News
