Photo has been used for illustrative purposes.

Shamila Jamaluddin, Staff Reporter

A wave of excitement can be seen among many Muslim expatriate residents in the capital in view of the upcoming Eid holiday celebrations. The excitement is felt more among families with lots of children in the household and those hoping to sacrifice bulls and sheep.

‘Gulf Today’ spoke to a cross-section of residents and Eid shoppers in supermarkets and malls and learnt that both the young and old are looking forward to the long holidays ahead. Moreover families and friends will visit and greet one another. For children, Eid brings merriment, elders’ blessings and Eidiya — money and other gifts. Family time takes centre stage during Eid celebrations. Most residents prefer to spend Eid with family. “I have as a practice distributed meat parcels for neighbours and friends here in Abu Dhabi and at the same time we also send our share of the sacrifice through cash to our families back home who pool from members of immediate family and sacrifice an animal to give to the elder’s homes, orphanages and to the needy,” said Shahul Hameed, a marketing manager from Sri Lanka. This gives me and my family tremendous satisfaction,” he added.

Moreover, in the UAE, a wide range of events and activities are available for Eid, including, fun fairs, special buffets, stage shows and much more including attractions like the malls offering a variety of foods. With Eid Al Adha right around the corner, Yas Island’s award-winning theme parks are offering their guests all the fun this holiday. Featuring a line-up of exciting activities, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld and Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi are extending the excitement until 10 PM from August 8 – 16, welcoming guests with a plethora of unrivalled experiences. Those looking for a celebratory adventure can enjoy the summer offer and purchase 4 tickets for the price of 3 at all three theme parks.

Families and loved ones will experience authentic Emirati culture with performances from Ayalah drummers and dancers, alongside exhilarating rides at both Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and Yas Waterworld. The Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) in Abu Dhabi announced on Wednesday that its surface public parking bays will be free of charge during Eid Al Adha holidays. Surface parking bays will be free of charge starting from Saturday, August 10 to Wednesday, August 14 at 7.59am.