Fireworks, henna, light reflections and live parades: Build a weekend-long itinerary of Eid-inspired family fun at Dubai’s most iconic shopping and dining destinations
Eid Al Fitr comes in full swing with its signature vim and vigour. Musicians ringing traditional tunes through open avenues and expansive halls, shops offering up exclusive discounts and experiences, and popular eateries whipping up special menus for a feast that fits the festivities – there’s plenty to pack up the long weekend.
From easy-breezy waterfront family fun at JBR The Walk and Bluewaters to a heavy hand of heritage at Al Seef, here’s a roundup of all the ways you can celebrate the occasion with loved ones.
Al Seef
‘Walk into Art – Follow the Art Beats’ and the Light reflections show come to a close on 22 April, so be sure to make your way over to catch the last of all the live music, photography exhibits, heritage showcases, light and art zones, Eid street market, henna art, etc. For Eid, Al Seef is getting into the celebratory spirit with children’s entertainment and workshops plus a vivacious parade of balloon benders, magicians, and bubble-makers to keep the whole family starstruck. A live Ayala band will dazzle with folk tunes to really bring the Emirati touch home.
Dates: 22-24 April
Al Khawaneej Walk
The charming neighborhood spot Al Khawaneej Walk and Last Exit Al Khawaneej will be alive with celebrations and activities on the occasion of Eid Al Fitr. Be entranced by Ayaala dancers and Tanoura shows or a band of clowns, while the little ones enjoy arts and crafts activities or settle down for an outdoor Eid movie or even enjoying a puppet show. There’s something for everyone.
Dates: First day of Eid for 3 days
Boxpark
Ramadan wraps up over a charming weekend of themed celebrations at the industrial-inspired shopping district, Boxpark. Family entertainment along its stretching promenade, special offers at boutiques and experiences and unmissable food details at homegrown dining concepts – you can pack a weekend’s worth of fun at one destination.
Dates: 22-24 April
Bluewaters
Enjoy a slew of contemporary Eid celebrations at the urban island getaway of Bluewaters. A jaw-dropping experience for every occasion, the island will light up under a sky of fireworks on the second day of Eid at 9pm. Matching that show of lights at ground-level will be a dazzling LED umbrella parade, who will march through Bluewaters’ expansive avenues bringing whimsy to the waterfront. Get your hands decorated with traditional Henna designs, watch a falcon and his falconer carry on a centuries-old Bedouin tradition, and sample Arabic coffee and dates – all for free! For little ones, themed workshops will delight with equal fervour.
When: Ramadan activities: 22-24 April from 7-11pm; Fireworks: 2nd day of Eid at 9pm
The Outlet Village
Last minute Eid shopping? No problem! Find amazing discounts and jaw-dropping offers across the luxurious shopping haven, The Outlet Village, paired perfectly with a host of Ramadan themed activities. Brightly lit clowns will spread laughter and joy through the Tuscan-style halls all weekend long, followed by a live Harbia band on the second day of Eid. While you shop, don’t forget about a limited time Spin & Win experience. Spend at least AED200 for a chance to instantly win shopping gift vouchers, Dubai Parks and Resorts passes and exciting giveaways that make every cent spent in your shopping spree worth it.
When: 22-24 April from 7-11pm; Harbia performers: 2nd day of Eid from 6-10pm
JBR The Walk
Head over to JBR The Walk on the second day of Eid to catch mesmerising fireworks at 9pm commemorating the end of another joyous Ramadan. Traditional experiences will delight young an old, from henna designers painting hands with intricate patterns to a masterful falconer showing off the elegance of the UAE’s national bird. Nibble on coffee and dates while you stroll the promenade, and scope out engaging activities for little ones. While you’re there, don’t forget to take your chance at an Eid only Spin and Win. Spend AED150 at any one of JBR’s shops and restaurants and spin the wheel for instant prizes like gift vouchers, credit points on Dubai Holding’s Tickit rewards initiative, and exciting giveaways.
When: Ramadan activities: 22-24 April from 7-11pm; Fireworks: 2nd day of Eid at 9pm
Bay Avenue
A treat for residents around the wider Business Bay and Downtown neighbourhoods should come on down to Bay Avenue to get in the Eid spirit. A perfect place to mingle with its plethora of restaurants, Bay Avenue is serving up coffee and dates to passers-by for the occasion. Women can even get their hands decorated with henna tattoos – a perfect detail for Eid fashions.
When: 22-24 April from 3-9pm