Eid al-Fitr 2025 in Saudi Arabia

Eid al-Fitr is celebrated with great joy and reverence, marking the end of Ramadan with prayers at mosques and large open grounds. Families gather for festive meals, exchange gifts, and give Zakat al-Fitr to support those in need. The holiday is also a time for visiting relatives and fostering community bonds.

Eid al-Fitr: A Public Holiday?

Eid al-Fitr is a public holiday in Saudi Arabia, usually lasting around 3 to 7 days. Government offices, schools, and most businesses close during this time, allowing people to celebrate with family, attend prayers, and participate in festive traditions.

Eid al-Fitr

Eid al-Fitr has been celebrated in Saudi Arabia since the early days of Islam. It marks the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, and was first observed by the Prophet Muhammad in the 7th century. As the birthplace of Islam, Saudi Arabia holds a special connection to this religious festival. The traditions followed during Eid al-Fitr are based on the Prophet's teachings and have been passed down through generations.

The festival is observed on the first day of Shawwal, the tenth month of the Islamic calendar, right after the sighting of the new moon. Over time, the way Eid is celebrated has grown, but its core values of prayer, charity, and community remain the same. It reflects the deep cultural and spiritual heritage of the country and continues to be one of the most cherished holidays.

Eid al-Fitr Celebration in Saudi Arabia

Eid al-Fitr is a time of joy and unity in Saudi Arabia. The celebration begins with a special morning prayer held in large open areas or mosques. People wear new or traditional clothes, and families often go together for the prayer. Before this prayer, Muslims give Zakat al-Fitr, a small amount of charity, to help those in need. This ensures that everyone can join the celebrations, regardless of their situation.

After the prayer, families and friends gather to share festive meals. Traditional dishes such as kabsa, dates, sweets, and Arabic coffee are commonly served. Homes are decorated, and people visit relatives and neighbors to exchange greetings, gifts, and good wishes. It is also common for children to receive money or small presents. Many people take this time to travel within the country or enjoy outings, as most workplaces and schools remain closed for several days.

Falling on the first day of Shawwal in the Islamic calendar, Eid al-Fitr is more than just a holiday; it reflects values that are important in Saudi society—faith, generosity, family, and community. It brings people closer and offers a moment of reflection after a month of fasting and spiritual growth. The celebration strengthens social bonds and promotes kindness and gratitude. For many, Eid is a reminder of the importance of compassion and unity, both within families and across communities.

Eid al-Fitr Observances