EID Ul-Fitr 2025 Celebrations: Eid is more than a celebration—it is a moment to pause, reconnect, and embrace both tradition and new experiences. As families gather and prayers fill the air, the holiday becomes an opportunity to reflect and explore. Whether it’s the echoes of history in ancient cities, the warmth of communal feasts, or the serenity of nature’s grandeur, certain destinations elevate the spirit of Eid in profound ways. From the cultural heartlands of the Middle East to the tropical sanctuaries of Southeast Asia, these places offer a meaningful backdrop to mark the occasion with depth and discovery.

AlUla, Saudi Arabia
The grandeur of AlUla is not simply in its landscapes but in the weight of history that lingers in its air. Home to the Nabataean tombs of Hegra—Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage site—this desert sanctuary offers a contemplative setting for Eid. Stroll through AlUla Old Town, where mudbrick homes and open-air majlis spaces invite quiet reflection, before experiencing an Eid feast at one of the region’s farm-to-table dining spots like Tama at Habitas. For a more immersive connection to the land, take a guided stargazing tour in the desert, where the silence and vastness provide a moment of spiritual grounding.

Morocco

Eid in Morocco is a symphony of scents and sounds. In the medinas of Marrakech and Fes, the rhythmic clatter of copper artisans and the murmur of market vendors blend with the fragrance of saffron and slow-roasted lamb. Start the day with Eid prayers at the Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakech, then wander the souks where skilled tailors craft traditional djellabas and kaftans perfect for the celebrations. A rooftop dinner at Le Jardin in the medina offers a modern take on Moroccan cuisine, while an excursion to the Agafay Desert for a camel trek and Berber tea ceremony provides a serene contrast to the city’s vibrancy.

Oman

Few places balance grandeur and restraint as effortlessly as Oman. The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat, with its Persian carpets and intricate chandeliers, is a fitting place for morning prayers before setting off toward the country’s wilder edges. For those looking to mark Eid with family, a dhow cruise through the fjord-like waters of Musandam provides a unique way to experience Oman’s coastal beauty. Inland, the lush terraces of Jebel Akhdar offer guided hikes through pomegranate orchards, while a traditional Eid lunch at Bait Al Luban highlights the country’s signature flavours, from shuwa (slow-roasted lamb) to fragrant rice dishes.
 

Dubai

A city that thrives on spectacle, Dubai elevates Eid celebrations with a seamless blend of tradition and indulgence. After morning prayers at Jumeirah Mosque, step into Al Seef, where restored Emirati architecture meets bustling waterfront souks selling oud, dates, and intricate textiles. Opt for an Eid brunch at the Burj Al Arab’s Al Iwan, where traditional mezze and slow-cooked lamb take centre stage, before experiencing the city’s cultural side at the Museum of the Future. For a quieter retreat, a private desert safari with a falconry display and Bedouin-style dinner offers an intimate way to celebrate under the stars.

Abu Dhabi

The capital’s approach to luxury is more measured than Dubai’s, yet no less captivating. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque—an architectural marvel of white marble and gold detailing—becomes a focal point during Eid, its vast courtyards welcoming thousands for morning prayers. Beyond the city, kayaking through the mangroves at Jubail provides a tranquil escape, while a drive into the Liwa Desert reveals towering dunes and the opportunity to stay at Qasr Al Sarab, an opulent desert retreat that hosts special Eid celebrations with live oud performances and Emirati cuisine. Art lovers can mark the occasion with a visit to the Louvre Abu Dhabi, where Islamic art collections provide a thought-provoking link to the past.
 

Malaysia

Celebrations in Malaysia are defined by warmth and inclusivity. The country’s “open house" tradition invites both locals and visitors to partake in Eid feasts, where dishes like rendang and ketupat are shared across generations. Begin the day at Masjid Negara in Kuala Lumpur, then explore the festive atmosphere at Kampung Baru, where traditional wooden houses host family gatherings and market stalls overflow with Malay sweets. For a more scenic escape, take a ferry to Langkawi to unwind at The Datai, a rainforest retreat that balances nature and luxury.

Thailand

Beyond its reputation for beaches and temples, Thailand holds a quieter, lesser-known side that makes it a compelling choice for Eid. The historic Haroon Mosque in Bangkok reflects the city’s deep-rooted Islamic heritage, while halal dining enclaves in Krabi and Chiang Mai introduce a local twist to the celebrations. Spend the holiday savouring halal Thai cuisine at Yusup Pochana before setting off for Koh Yao Noi, an island retreat where private villas offer a peaceful setting for family gatherings.

Celebrating Eid Closer to Home

For those looking to celebrate Eid within India, the country offers a diverse range of destinations that combine spiritual richness with natural beauty.

Kerala

Eid in Kerala has a distinct coastal charm. Malappuram, known for its strong Muslim heritage, hosts grand celebrations where homes open their doors to friends and travellers alike. After morning prayers at the Palayam Juma Masjid in Thiruvananthapuram, explore the spice markets and enjoy a traditional Mappila feast featuring Malabar biryani and Pathiri. A backwater cruise in Alleppey provides a tranquil escape, offering a quiet moment of gratitude amidst nature’s splendour.

Mokokchung, Nagaland

For an Eid spent far from the expected, Mokokchung—home to the Ao Naga people—offers a cultural immersion unlike any other. Though Islam is a minority faith here, the region’s hospitality ensures that visitors celebrating Eid feel welcomed. Start the day with prayers at one of the small mosques, then explore the nearby villages, where bamboo houses dot the lush hillsides. A meal of smoked meats, sticky rice, and foraged greens provides a unique take on an Eid feast, bridging cultures in a way that is both humbling and enriching.

Whether travelling near or far, these destinations offer a way to celebrate Eid that honours both tradition and the joy of discovery. From historic cities to serene landscapes, each place provides a setting that deepens the meaning of the holiday while creating lasting memories.