By Stephen Dupre
DUBAI, March 30 – Hundreds of Keralite expatriates gathered at Qusais Eid Gah on Sunday morning to mark Eid Al Fitr, with special prayers conducted in Malayalam. The congregation, led by Imam Hussain Ali, included a sermon emphasizing the significance of righteousness in faith, worship, and community responsibility.
Spirit of unity and devotion
At Qusais Eid Gah, crowds arrived early to secure a spot, dressed in their finest attire to partake in the religious celebrations.
Following prayers, worshippers exchanged warm greetings, embracing and shaking hands. Imam Hussain Ali’s sermon highlighted unity and social cohesion. “We ask Allah to grant joy and blessings to our leaders, our country, and the community,” he said. “A strong society is built upon the foundation of family, friends, neighbors, and support for those in need.”
After the prayers, Imam Hussain Ali exchanged Eid greetings with worshippers.
A time for family and community
For Indian expatriate Aseel Kanhirala, Eid is a time to strengthen family bonds. Attending prayers with his two children and wife, he emphasized the importance of passing down traditions. “Eid is about joy and togetherness, and I want my children to understand its significance,” he said.
Ashir Ali, a long-time Dubai resident, sees Eid prayers as an opportunity to reconnect with friends, as his family remains in India. “I’ve lived in Dubai for 17 years, and this is always a special moment. After prayers, we prepare meals and gather for a picnic with friends,” he said.
Dr. Riyas Usman brought his family and distributed sweets following prayers. He also attended with his elderly father in a wheelchair, underscoring the event’s spirit. “Eid Al Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, and it’s a time when everyone comes together,” said CV Usman, another attendee.
Leaders extend Eid greetings
Across Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, worshippers observed Eid Al Fitr prayers in mosques and open prayer grounds, with the Year of Community as a central theme.
President Sheikh Mohamed performed Eid prayers at Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi and shared his greetings on X, formerly Twitter. “On the occasion of Eid Al-Fitr, I extend my congratulations to my brothers, the Rulers of the Emirates, the people of the UAE, and Muslims around the world. May God grant peace, prosperity, and blessings to all,” he posted.
Following the prayer, Sheikh Mohamed exchanged Eid greetings with worshippers, accompanied by Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, and Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, also shared his best wishes. “May the people of the UAE and all Arab and Islamic nations experience peace, stability, and prosperity every year,” he wrote on X.
Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed performed Eid prayers at Zabeel Grand Mosque and conveyed his greetings: “Heartfelt Eid Al Fitr wishes to the UAE leadership, our people, and the wider Arab and Islamic world. May Allah bless us all with peace, prosperity, and happiness.”
Rulers from across the UAE also participated in Eid prayers. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah, led prayers at Al Badi’ Musalla, while Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Ruler of Ajman, welcomed worshippers at Al Zaher Palace. Other rulers, including those of Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah, also attended Eid prayers in their respective emirates.
