The day typically begins with a special communal Eid prayer, followed by family gatherings, generous feasts, and plenty of sweet treats shared among relatives, friends, and neighbours. Children often receive Eidiya (small gifts or money), homes are filled with the aroma of traditional desserts, and cities across the Kingdom become lively and festive.

Eid Al-Fitr also marks the beginning of the Islamic month of Shawwal, as it falls on the first day of Shawwal. 

The holiday is distinguished by a particular prayer that consists of two rakats (parts) which will only be performed in congregation and features additional seven takbirs (raising of the hands to the ears while saying “Allāhu Akbar).

Private sector holiday

According to a statement posted on X, this year, the holiday will begin at the end of the working day on Wednesday March 18 (Ramadan 29, 1447 AH), and will run for four days. The holiday will run through Tuesday March 24, with everyone returning to work on Wednesday March 25. This gives residents across Saudi Arabia time to pause, gather with loved ones, and make the most of the festive period to enjoy the atmosphere that marks the end of the Holy Month.

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Image: What’s On archives