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Time Out Dubai
14-05-2025
- Time Out Dubai
Eid 2025: What is the difference between Eid al Fitr and Eid al Adha?
Eid, translating to festival, celebration, feast day or holiday, is celebrated by Muslims around the world twice a year, and Eid in Dubai is no different. The two big Islamic Eid festivals are Eid al Fitr and Eid al Adha with both being a time when families and friends come together donning new clothes and plenty of gifts (hello, eidiyas). It's also a time when Eid sales come into full swing while restaurants pull out all the stops with special Eid dishes. Eid in Dubai is when the city comes alive (Credit: Adobe Express) That's not all though. Eid means two public holidays in the UAE, meaning private and public sectors, as well as schools, are given time off to enjoy the holidays. You may like: Islamic calendar vs. Gregorian calendar: Why UAE public holiday dates change every year But what is the difference between Eid al Fitr and Eid al Adha? Allow us to break it down for you. Eid al Fitr Both Eids are based on the sighting of the moon. (Credit: Shutterstock) One of the four main public holidays and one of two Eid celebrations, Eid al Fitr is celebrated around the world by Muslims. The event marks the end of Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. Translating to the feast of breaking the fast, this Eid falls on the beginning of the tenth month of the Islamic calendar, Shawwal. Dates The holiday's official dates are based on the moon, as is the case with the start of Ramadan. And because the Islamic month is either 29 days or 30 days, we don't know when exactly Eid begins until around a day or two before it begins. This year, Eid Al Fitr began on Sunday March 30 and lasted until Tuesday April 1, giving Dubai residents a bumper four-day weekend off work. Time off As part of the festivities, private and public sectors are given three to five days off, sometimes offering a long weekend or two. Schools and universities also get time off. Eid in Dubai: Eid al Adha You could pop over to AlUla for a staycation during your time off. (Credit: AlUla) Eid al Adha is known as the festival of sacrifice (of either a goat, sheep or lamb) that takes place around 70 days after Ramadan and Eid al Fitr. This Eid is celebrated at the end of Hajj season. For both Eids, Muslims attend a special Eid prayer held at mosques, as well as promoting the importance of charity and giving back. Dates As with the other Eid and Ramadan, this Eid is based on the sighting of the crescent moon. But with Eid Al Adha falling on the ninth of the Islamic month of Dhu Al Hijjah then we're able to know more than a week in advance when exactly Eid Al Adha begins. This year the Eid Al Adha break is predicted to begin on Friday June 6, with Arafat Day falling the day before. The break will last until Sunday June 8. Time off Private and public sectors and schools and universities are also given time off for this Eid. Known as the shorter Eid, you'll enjoy around three to four days off. Celebrations Dubai Mall, and other malls, tend to get really busy during the Eid breaks As part of the religious festival, for both Eids, Dubai comes alive with decorations, both indoor and outdoor. Houses don lanterns and fairy lights, while restaurants boast limited-edition desserts and dishes. You might also like: When's the next public holiday? Other public holidays in the UAE UAE flag In addition to both Eids, people living in the UAE get the Islamic New Year, the Prophet Muhammad's birthday, the UAE National Day and the Gregorian January 1 off work and school. This article originally appeared in our sister title Time Out Jeddah and has been edited to reflect what happens in Dubai Making plans? Check these out: The best pool day deals in Dubai Visit these spots to cool off Dubai's newest restaurants to try The latest openings to tempt your taste buds These are Dubai's best happy hours Offers to make you smile – every single day of the week
Muscat Daily
16-04-2025
- Muscat Daily
Indian teenager from Oman treks to Mt Everest base camp
An Indian expatriate teenager from Oman converted the recent 9-day long Eid break into an opportunity to realise his dream of trekking to the Mt Everest base camp along with his mother, a yoga therapist, as a tribute to the all-encompassing spirit of the sultanate Through fog and mist, snow and hail, flickering light and treacherous terrain, he made his way ahead with an unflinching spirit – a spirit of accomplishment against all odds – and an ambitious attitude with no room for despair. While most teens spent the recent school break during Eid al Fitr relaxing indoors, 13-year-old Shiva Kochale, a student of Indian School Bousher, chose to celebrate his entry into teenage with an ambitious feat to test his endurance through snow, freezing winds, and sub-zero temperatures all the way to the Mt Everest Base Camp. Accompanied by his mother, Sonal Kochale, a yoga therapist and trekking enthusiast, the mother-son duo completed the 130km journey from Ramechhap to the base of the world's tallest mountain in Nepal. Residents of Oman since 2019, the mother and son undertook the expedition between March 29 and April 11. 'I enjoyed every step of this expedition. It wasn't just a trek, but an adventure of a lifetime, where every step teaches you something new. I'm sure, this will be the first of many more adventures I will want to undertake in years ahead – and the summit of Mt Everest will see me there someday!' Shiva said, sharing his high-flying ambitions. 'This journey wasn't just a personal milestone — it was a tribute to the all-encompassing spirit of Oman, where our love for adventure truly took root,' Sonal told Muscat Daily . She described the trek as a shared test of physical endurance and emotional resilience, rather than an item on their bucketlist. 'It was about challenging ourselves physically, emotionally, and spiritually — and doing it together, as a family.' The journey to 5,364m above sea level, often in temperatures below minus 20°C, left many fellow trekkers surprised at the presence of a 13-year-old. 'People were stunned to see a young boy making this climb with his mother. We got a lot of encouraging words along the way it was really touching,' Sonal said. Though the summit was in Nepal, the story of the trek began in Oman's mountains and wadis. Sonal credits the late Hussam al Balushi of 'Adventure Zone' in Muscat for introducing her to trekking. 'Hussam introduced me to Oman's beauty — from Jebel Shams to Wadi Shab. His encouragement laid the foundation for this dream. We owe him a lot,' she said. Building a new bond What started with casual weekend hikes, soon became a shared passion. 'It was a mix of a long-held dream and a recent decision — once we committed, we were all in,' she said. The mother-son team didn't rely on high-altitude gym training. Instead, their preparation was grounded in yoga. 'Our training revolved around breathing techniques, endurance, and static yoga poses. Sun salutations, mountain walks, and pranayama became part of our routine,' she said. Despite the preparation, the trek came with its share of challenges. 'There were moments when we doubted ourselves — heavy snowfall, steep climbs, low oxygen, and one day I even had a fever. But the bond between us helped us push through. Shiva supported me when I was down, and later, I was his rock when he struggled.' Reaching the base camp, surrounded by Himalayan peaks, was a moment of quiet reflection. 'It wasn't just a check mark on a list. We hoisted the flag of Oman there with pride. That moment surrounded by nature's grandeur — was humbling. Climbing Everest Base Camp together has deepened our bond. We had to rely on each other more than ever. Every step was a reminder of how far love, discipline, and belief can take you.' Message for dreamers As a yoga therapist, Sonal said the experience reaffirmed her core beliefs. 'This trek tested every ounce of that belief. It's something we'll cherish forever.' She hopes the experience inspires other families across India and Oman. 'I want young people — especially from India and Oman — to know that adventure is for everyone. With the right mindset and preparation, you can move mountains, quite literally.' When asked about what's next, she didn't hesitate. 'This is just the beginning. We want to continue exploring and inspiring others, one peak at a time.' Her advice to those uncertain about pursuing their dreams, she said, 'Dreams come with risks. But real accomplishment lives on the other side of fear. Prepare, stay grounded, and trust your every breath. Great things happen when courage meets consistency.'
Muscat Daily
08-04-2025
- Business
- Muscat Daily
Over 14,600 use Nizwa bus service during Eid trial run
Nizwa – More than 14,600 passengers used Mwasalat's public transport service in Nizwa during a nine-day trial period from March 28 to April 5, signalling growing demand for affordable and reliable transportation options in the region. In a statement, Mwasalat said the pilot service, launched in collaboration with the Dakhliyah governorate, coincided with the Eid al Fitr holidays and drew strong interest from residents and visitors. 'The high number of passengers reflects the growing recognition of the advantages of Mwasalat's public transport system, especially during peak travel times such as the Eid holidays,' the company stated. The trial recorded a total of 14,622 passengers, which Mwasalat described as a clear sign of increasing public awareness and willingness to use public transport. The Eid period typically sees increased domestic travel, and the trial offered an opportunity to evaluate passenger preferences and capacity needs. Mwasalat buses provide connections between major cities and towns across Oman. Known for affordability and wide coverage, the service is gaining popularity as an alternative to private vehicles, particularly during holidays when roads are congested. The company said it has been expanding its network in response to changing travel patterns, with the Eid trial in Nizwa marking another step towards encouraging sustainable transport. 'The demand for Mwasalat buses underscores the importance of reliable and efficient transportation services in the country,' the statement noted. Mwasalat's partnership with Dakhliyah governorate is expected to continue, with both parties exploring options to strengthen services during high-demand seasons. The success of the Nizwa trial highlights the role of public transport in supporting mobility and easing pressure on road networks, particularly during major holidays.
Zawya
08-04-2025
- Zawya
Oman: Over 32,000 visitors explore Wadi Bani Khalid during Eid holiday
Muscat – The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MHT) has said that the popular tourist destination Wadi Bani Khalid drew a huge crowd during the Eid al Fitr holiday with 32,142 people visiting the place between March 30 and April 5. According to MHT, the visitors included 1,080 Omanis, 1,440 Europeans, 28,626 Asians, and 996 other Arabs. During the holiday period, rescue teams assisted in the safe recovery of 14 individuals from drowning incidents. The popular destination, 203km from Muscat – located in North Sharqiyah – drew visitors from around the region to enjoy its natural beauty, year-round flowing waters and tranquil atmosphere. Visitors like to explore its geological wonders, including the Maql Cave and 12 natural springs, such as Ain al Sarooj, Ain al Lathb, Ain Kanara, Ain al Muntajar, and Ain Ghalala. The area is also home to 56 aflaj, with notable ones including Al Haili, Al Fardh, Al Sarooj, and Al Jarbi. In addition to its natural attractions, the wilayat boasts a rich history. © Apex Press and Publishing Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Muscat Daily
05-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Muscat Daily
Eid celebrated with vibrant cultural festivities in Oman
Muscat – Oman marked the nine-day Eid al Fitr break with a diverse range of cultural and recreational events, showcasing the sultanate's rich heritage through traditional performances, equestrian displays and community celebrations across governorates. In Muscat, residents of Bausher gathered in large numbers on the first day of Eid to witness a Royal parade as His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik passed through the district en route to the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque to offer the Eid prayer for the year 1446 AH. Locals welcomed His Majesty with chants of appreciation, expressing loyalty and celebrating the national renaissance under his leadership. Beaches and parks in Muscat also saw huge crowds throughout the holiday, with families and children enjoying the outdoors. In South Batinah, the municipality hosted a three-day festival titled 'Eyud al Hawqayn Ghair' (Unique Eid al Fitr) at the Al Hawqayn Waterfalls in Rustaq. The programme blended entertainment, heritage, and sports activities. The first day featured theatrical performances, interactive games, bicycle rides, and horse riding. The second day focused on family events, traditional meals, and performances of Omani folk music and dance, including Al Azi and Al Razha. Sports competitions continued throughout. The final day concluded with a heritage exhibition displaying handicrafts, traditional dishes, and workshops for children. North Batinah also celebrated with events organised by the governorate's municipality across multiple locations. In Sohar, Eid activities were held at Haibi Park, Al Waha Mall, and Sohar Downtown. These included stage shows, face painting, talent contests, horse riding, and appearances by cartoon characters. Celebrations at the Shinas Fort Theatre featured circus acts, laser shows, cultural competitions, and children's games, with gifts distributed to attendees. Liwa's public park hosted folk art performances, face painting, and competitions for children alongside cartoon-themed entertainment. On April 3, the Dakhliyah governorate held the fourth edition of the Bahla Equestrian Festival. Organised by the Office of the Governor, the festival included traditional horse shows with riders performing Ardha, a form of ceremonial horsemanship. The event also featured artistic performances and children's competitions, aimed at encouraging interest in equestrian culture among younger generations. In North Sharqiyah, the Bidiya Equestrian Club organised a two-day Eid al Fitr festival, attracting over 130 participants from across Oman. The event showcased equestrian sports and traditional Omani singing, drawing widespread community participation. According to the organisers, the festival aimed to 'celebrate Eid in a manner that reflects the deep-rooted traditions of the nation.' Across the country, the celebrations reinforced the festive spirit of Eid, while underlining Oman's efforts to preserve and promote its cultural identity through community engagement and traditional performances.
