Diverse Eid celebrations return to Saudi Arabia

Although the pandemic disrupted many celebrations, the Eid rituals remain unforgettable in the hearts of the people. (Supplied)
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Updated 13 May 2021
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Diverse Eid celebrations return to Saudi Arabia

  • After a month of fasting and performing religious rituals, many gearing up for breakfast feasts with close family

KHAFJI/JEDDAH/MAKKAH: Last year’s Eid was limited to small celebrations at home due to the 24-hour curfew imposed across the Kingdom during the five-day holiday to tackle the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

However, the situation has transformed this year, as people are more reassured and eager to celebrate the occasion with their families.

After a month of fasting and performing religious rituals, many are gearing up for Eid with morning prayers with their neighbors and breakfast feasts with close family.

The Hijazi feast, for example, is always full of traditional sweet and savory dishes such as the ta’ateemah, dibyaza, harees, ma’asoup, and fatoot bread.

All of these dishes are well known in the Hijaz region, where they are commonly prepared and served by grandmothers, to ensure that the whole family gathers on the first day.

Haneen Fahad, a mother in her 40s, said that Eid prayers are dear to many Saudis as it is the occasion’s first social gathering, where they meet and greet those living around them.

“One of the things I really admire is preparing some giveaway gifts for my kids to distribute to other kids at the mosque after Eid prayers,” she told Arab News.

She added that nothing can be compared to the spiritual, thrilling feeling of the first day. “There is so much fun. Once the whole family is gathered, a lot of activities start, where elder relatives start to distribute Eidiya money to kids and adults, families start to exchange gifts, and everyone looks neat, fresh and happy.”

After a morning full of food, money, gifts, new clothes, and fancy chocolates, Jeddawies tend to revive before the evening with what is colloquially referred to as the “Eid sleeping coma.” 




Although the pandemic disrupted many celebrations, the Eid rituals remain unforgettable in the hearts of the people. They long for the smallest details of Eid, with its social legacies and many customs that have been passed down for generations and remain in their memories. (Supplied)

HIGHLIGHTS

• The Hijazi feast is always full of traditional sweet and savory dishes such as the ta’ateemah, dibyaza, harees, ma’asoup, and fatoot bread. All of these dishes are well known in the Hijaz region, where they are commonly prepared and served by grandmothers, to ensure that the whole family gathers on the first day.

• In the southern part of the Kingdom, specifically in the Jazan region, people start to prepare for Eid two weeks earlier. The region is famous for its popular traditional dishes that are nutritionally rich, such as stews, fish, ghee, honey, pickles and others.

• Although the pandemic disrupted many celebrations in Makkah and Taif, the Eid rituals remain unforgettable in the hearts of the people. They long for the smallest details of Eid, with its social legacies and many customs that have been passed down for generations and remain in their memories.

Shatha Bukhari, a student at Dar Al-Hekmah, told Arab News: “After everyone has been up all morning until noon, the city gets quieter in the afternoon as everyone enjoys their Eid ‘sleeping coma’ to recharge for the night.”

Jeddawis usually have a second round of feasting in the evening, enjoying a barbecue dinner at home. On the second day, however, they prefer to dine in a fine restaurant, said Bukhari.

From west to south

In the southern part of the Kingdom, specifically in the Jazan region, people start to prepare for Eid two weeks earlier.

Nahla Zameem, a Jazani mother of four who has a family house located in Jazan city, gave Arab News some insight into the region’s traditions. She said that Jazani Eid is more of a big wedding to its people.

The ladies like to celebrate Eid the traditional way, using jasmine flowers, henna dye, and wearing traditional jalabiya as a way to express happiness, beauty and elegance.

The jasmine flowers are made into crowns and wrapped around the hair, and some choose to wear big jasmine necklaces up to 1-meter long. 




Although the pandemic disrupted many celebrations, the Eid rituals remain unforgettable in the hearts of the people. They long for the smallest details of Eid, with its social legacies and many customs that have been passed down for generations and remain in their memories. (Supplied)

The region’s ladies also book appointments with henna artists to decorate their arms and legs with temporary tattoos of different patterns. Henna is well-known in the Muslim world and is a reddish-brown dye made from the powdered leaves of a tropical shrub, used to color the hair and decorate the body.

The region is famous for its popular traditional dishes that are nutritionally rich, such as stews, fish, ghee, honey, pickles and others.

“Around 8 a.m. every Eid, all of the men in the neighborhood start to gather at my father’s house, where a huge breakfast is held, consisting of rows of popular food that may reach a length of a few meters, all of which is served in clay pots to give a wonderful authentic vibe,” Zameem added.

One of the things I really admire is preparing some giveaway gifts for my kids to distribute to other kids at the mosque after Eid prayers.

Haneen Fahad

One of the most essential traditional Jazani dishes for Eid breakfast is the salt fish, also common among Egyptians and Palestinians during the religious festival. 

“We prepare salt fish almost a month earlier, where we clean the fish and stuff it with salt and preserve it by hanging it to dry under the sunlight. During Eid, we deep fry it for breakfast.”

Fireworks and folklore dances are also a big part of Eid celebrations in Jazan. Some of the famous dances are Jazani Ardha, or as Jazani people call it “Zlaf.”

Eastern Province corniche

In the Eastern Province, the corniche is a popular destination during Eid, with many having complete family visits and gatherings.

Mohammad Meshal, a young Saudi from Khafji, loves to spend the Eid among his family and relatives in his home, a small border town near Kuwait.

Before the COVID-19 situation, Meshal used to travel to Kuwait to go for walks and visit relatives, but precautions taken by the government put an end to his trips. But he is optimistic that despite the restrictions, “ traveling is not completely restricted, as I may travel again after May 17.”

Abdullah Al-Ayaf, a government employee, told Arab News that his family is used to corniche visits after the round of family gatherings are done. “I spend the first day of Eid somewhat officially, but on the second and third days, my family goes to the corniche, or we rent a small resort.”

DECODER

• Eidiya: Money that is usually given to children by elderly relatives, family, and friends as part of the celebration. The amount of money mostly varies from SR1 to SR500.

• Dibyaza: A dish made of melted dried apricots, roasted nuts, figs, peaches and sugary dates to create a marmalade-like dish that can be enjoyed with or without bread.

• Ta’ateemah: The name of the breakfast feast that Hijazis enjoy on the first day of Eid Al-Fitr. It is derived from the Arabic word ‘itmah,’ meaning darkness, because the dishes served are light, just like midnight snacks.

• Harees: Mashed wheat mixed with chunks of meat.

Saudi child Abdul Malik Al-Mofadhali said that his Eid starts off with his mother calling him to wake up for breakfast with the family. She is keen to dress him in white, especially if the holiday coincides with spring or summer.

Al-Mofadhali said that eating sweets and nuts of all kinds is his favorite part about Eid, shortly followed by the corniche. “We shop from the grocery store for water, juice, ice cream and baked goods prior to going to the corniche. I love this day.”

Eid in Makkah and Taif

Although the pandemic disrupted many celebrations in Makkah and Taif, the Eid rituals remain unforgettable in the hearts of the people. They long for the smallest details of Eid, with its social legacies and many customs that have been passed down for generations and remain in their memories. 




Although the pandemic disrupted many celebrations, the Eid rituals remain unforgettable in the hearts of the people. They long for the smallest details of Eid, with its social legacies and many customs that have been passed down for generations and remain in their memories. (Supplied)

Fahad Al-Harbi, mayor of Ray Zakhir in Makkah, said that Meccans get dressed up to the nines, reminiscing over their favorite memories about Eid celebrations in the city.

“They distribute lawziyeh (almond shortbread cookies), laymouniyeh and mushabbak. They would also exchange gifts and give chocolate to children,” he said, adding: “Families get artistic in their celebrations to preserve the remaining heritage, customs and traditions.”

He said that Makkah consists of a mixture of peoples and tribes that have blended together, where cultures have harmonized, highlighting the city’s beautiful unity. “Families under the same roof would find a variety of dishes, which underlines the beautiful tapestry that is Makkah.”

In Taif, not far away, markets are usually overcrowded before the arrival of Eid, especially the popular ones such as Souk Al-Balad.

Abdul Hadi Al-Mansouri, a resident of Taif, said that the best moments of Eid occur when the celebration coincides with the rainy and the blooming season, when the aroma of roses adorns clothes.

He added that activities usually take place at the famous Al-Rudaf Park and Al-Faisaliah garden, bringing joy to the hearts of the people, creating cheerful Eid celebrations.


Saudi King praises outcomes of Trump’s visit

Updated 5 sec ago
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Saudi King praises outcomes of Trump’s visit

  • The Cabinet highlighted the signing of a Strategic Economic Partnership between Saudi Arabia and the United States

King Salman praised the outcomes of US President Donald Trump’s visit to the Kingdom, calling the results a historic step forward for bilateral relations, especially in strategic and economic sectors.

Chairing the weekly Cabinet session in Jeddah, King Salman expressed appreciation for President Trump’s acceptance of the Kingdom’s invitation and his discussions with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, which he said would elevate cooperation between the two countries to “an unprecedented level.”

The Cabinet highlighted the signing of a Strategic Economic Partnership between Saudi Arabia and the United States, as well as the announcement of major investment agreements totaling more than $300 billion.

In the same session, ministers also welcomed Washington’s positive response to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s efforts to lift sanctions on Syria. The Cabinet voiced hope that easing sanctions would support reconstruction and long-term stability in the war-torn country.

The Council reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s rejection of any forced displacement of the Palestinian people and called for sustaining the ceasefire in Gaza. It also praised recent achievements by Saudi students at the International Science and Engineering Fair and reviewed developments in the Kingdom’s industrial and humanitarian sectors.


Saudi Arabia, France to drive innovation in music, museums

Updated 19 min 4 sec ago
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Saudi Arabia, France to drive innovation in music, museums

  • Executive program promotes artifact exchange, heritage preservation, youth engagement, joint cultural exhibitions

JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia’s Museums Commission has signed an executive program with the Cite de la Musique — Philharmonie de Paris to enhance cooperation in the fields of museums and music.

The agreement, which align with the Kingdom’s cultural ambitions under Vision 2030, aims to strengthen cultural ties and foster joint initiatives between the two countries.

It was signed by Museums Commission acting CEO Ibrahim Alsanousi and Philharmonie de Paris CEO Olivier Mantei.

Key areas of cooperation are artifact loans, shared collections, and the exchange of historical musical instruments with the Tariq Abdulhakim Museum in Jeddah.

The program also covers collaborative traveling exhibitions and cultural events.

Mona Khazindar, adviser to the Ministry of Culture, told Arab News: “This partnership is the Kingdom’s commitment to fostering international cultural collaboration and enriching our national institutions through global expertise.

“It directly supports the objectives of Vision 2030 by enhancing the cultural ecosystem, promoting artistic education, and ensuring that our museums become vibrant centers of learning and creativity.

Khazindar added: “The Museums Commission’s strategy emphasizes innovation, inclusivity, and the preservation of our cultural heritage, and this collaboration will play a pivotal role in realizing that vision — especially through initiatives that engage youth and families in meaningful cultural experiences.”

The program includes the development of training and educational initiatives for children and families, such as workshops and interactive installations adapted from the Philharmonie’s programs for young audiences.

It also facilitates the exchange of expertise through researcher visits, seminars, and collaborative academic publications related to both permanent and temporary exhibitions.

Alsanousi emphasized the importance of the agreement, calling it a significant milestone in strengthening cultural ties between Saudi Arabia and France.

He said: “Music plays a vital role in cultural identity, and this partnership will support the transformation of the Tariq Abdulhakim Museum into an interactive and inspiring hub for musical education and engagement.”

Mantei praised Saudi Arabia’s cultural vision and affirmed that the partnership reflects a spirit of constructive cultural exchange.

He also highlighted the agreement as a foundation for future projects that promote artistic and societal dialogue between the two countries.

Tayeb Altayeb, acting director of the Tariq Abdulhakim Museum, said: “This is a transformative step in the development of the Tariq Abdulhakim Museum. It allows us to bring world-class musical artifacts and educational experiences to our audiences while honoring the legacy of one of the Kingdom’s most iconic musical pioneers.

“Through this, the museum will evolve into an interactive cultural hub that not only preserves Saudi Arabia’s rich musical heritage but also inspires future generations to explore and engage with music as a vital part of our national identity.”


KSrelief, UN sign $5m deal to rehabilitate 33 bakeries in Syria

Updated 14 min 45 sec ago
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KSrelief, UN sign $5m deal to rehabilitate 33 bakeries in Syria

  • Food security vital as Syria citizens return
  • Set to create 500 jobs in the bakery sector

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s aid agency KSrelief has signed a $5 million agreement with the UN Development Programme to rehabilitate damaged bakeries in the Syrian Arab Republic.

The agreement was formalized on the sidelines of the fourth European Humanitarian Forum held in Brussels on May 19 and 20, the Saudi Press Agency reported. 

It was signed by KSrelief Supervisor General Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeeah and the UNDP’s Administrator Achim Steiner. 

Under the project, 33 damaged bakeries across various Syrian governorates will be rehabilitated, the SPA reported. 

This includes basic restoration, installation of new production lines, maintenance of existing ones, and the rehabilitation of two mobile bread production units.

The project aims to bolster food security in regions with large numbers of returnees, displaced persons, and host communities by restoring the operations of government-run bakeries.

Through rehabilitation and increased production capacity, it will help meet the essential needs of the population, according to the SPA.

Additionally, the project is expected to create 500 jobs in the bakery sector, supporting local economic recovery.

This initiative is a part of the Kingdom’s ongoing humanitarian efforts, led by KSrelief, to enhance food security and alleviate hardships faced by people worldwide, in cooperation with UN humanitarian agencies. 

KSrelief’s participation in the forum reflected its commitment to strengthening global humanitarian efforts in the medium and long term. 

The forum’s participants included humanitarian leaders from various countries and organizations. It featured discussion sessions and interactive workshops focused on humanitarian priorities and geopolitical challenges.

It also served as a platform to reinforce respect for international humanitarian law, ensure access to aid, and enable the protection of humanitarian workers.


Saudi explores quality higher education practices at Tokyo conference

Updated 20 May 2025
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Saudi explores quality higher education practices at Tokyo conference

DUBAI: Saudi Arabia’s Education and Training Evaluation Commission participated in the 18th International Network for Quality Assurance Agencies in Higher Education from May 13 to 16 in Tokyo.

The conference was titled “The Big Bang Theory: The Quality Assurance Paradigm Shift.”

Hosted by the Japan University Accreditation Association, the event facilitated collaboration between institutions on quality practices amid rapid technological advancements and evolving societal needs.

According to the Saudi Press Agency, the ETEC’s participation forms part of its ongoing efforts to engage with international counterparts and explore leading global practices in education and training.


Prince Abdullah bin Faisal bin Turki Al-Saud hails Saudi-Japan ties

Updated 19 May 2025
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Prince Abdullah bin Faisal bin Turki Al-Saud hails Saudi-Japan ties

  • Prince Abdullah highlights investment growth with Japan
  • Praises role of Arab News Japan in boosting cooperation 

TOKYO: In an interview with Arab News Japan, Saudi Arabia’s Prince Abdullah bin Faisal bin Turki Al-Saud has lauded the strong ties between Japan and the Kingdom, and said he was deeply honored to have received a top honor from the Asia nation.

The former governor of the Saudi General Investment Authority received the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun last month.

“Receiving the Imperial Award is indeed a great honor. Like many in the Kingdom, including officials and former officials, I hold the Japanese emperor, government and people in the highest regard,” Prince Abdullah said in the recent interview with Arab News Japan. 

Reflecting on his tenure at SAGIA, now the Ministry of Investment, Prince Abdullah highlighted the collective nature of the recognition. 

“The award reflects the work carried out during my tenure at SAGIA ... This recognition is not solely mine, it is a shared achievement with my colleagues.

“More importantly, it reflects the leadership’s ongoing commitment to strengthening relations with Japan,” he said. 

He emphasized the Kingdom’s investment in international cooperation, noting the evolution of SAGIA into a full ministry under the Council of Ministers. 

“The elevation of SAGIA to a full ministry ... highlights the strategic importance the Saudi leadership places on investment and international cooperation,” he added.

During his recent visit to the Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Prince Abdullah shared his impressions of the Saudi Pavilion, which he described as a powerful representation of the Kingdom’s transformation and culture. 

“The Saudi Pavilion was excellent,” he said of the expo which opened on April 13 and ends Oct. 13. 

“I was particularly interested in the design elements of the Saudi Pavilion, how it captured the essence and transformation of our land, and how quickly and effectively the structure was developed.”

He praised the role of the Ministry of Culture and the young Saudis staffing the pavilion.

“The presence of talented young Saudi men and women at the pavilion was especially noteworthy.

“The structure itself, using stones especially brought from the Kingdom, was impressive, with features such as embedded loudspeakers, combining aesthetics and functionality,” he told Arab News Japan.

Prince Abdullah, who previously served as Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to the US, also lauded the Japanese Pavilion, saying it was “outstanding. Their designers, architects, and scientists demonstrated exceptional innovation.”

 “I even recommended our ambassador Dr. Ghazi Binzagr, who began his academic career in physics, to revisit the pavilion, as the advanced technologies on display merit deeper understanding,” he said. 

Turning to the broader significance of Saudi Arabia-Japan relations, Prince Abdullah emphasized the need for robust media and cultural exchange, pointing to Arab News Japan’s role as a valuable bridge between the two nations. 

“First, I would like to commend the efforts behind Arab News Japan. It is an important initiative, both in its content and in the way it delivers information. 

“It serves a valuable audience and contributes meaningfully to deepening understanding between our two countries.” 

He added: “There is deep mutual respect between our peoples. There is great potential for cooperation, especially among small- and medium-sized enterprises on both sides,” he said. 

Praising Japan’s technological innovation and the Kingdom’s transformative development, he said: “What we can realize by our partnership is amazing.” 

Prince Abdullah added that Japan and Saudi Arabia will benefit from increased cooperation, as well as the global economy.