Community Comes Together in Spirit of Eid Al Fitr and Solidarity
As the UAE marked the end of Ramadan with the celebration of Eid Al Fitr, the thoughts of many worshippers were with the people of Gaza, reflecting the ongoing conflict in the region. Thousands gathered at the Al Farooq Omar bin Al Khattab Mosque in Jumeirah, Dubai, where the festive air was tinged with concern for the humanitarian situation unfolding far away.
Focused Prayers for Gaza
During the first Eid prayers, the congregation expressed deep solidarity with Gaza. The recent escalation in conflict has resulted in significant casualties and has deeply affected the global Muslim community, including those in the UAE. “It’s sad what is happening there, and we are praying that changes; all we can do is pray that something good happens there,” shared Syrian resident Zaher Fdloun at the mosque.
UAE’s Diplomatic and Humanitarian Response
Dr. Anwar Gargash, diplomatic adviser to the President of the UAE, reaffirmed the country’s support for Gazans through a message on social media, emphasizing the UAE’s commitment to its comprehensive relief program and ongoing political efforts with Arab nations to address the crisis.
Community and Unity in Prayer
The Eid gathering also served as a poignant reminder of the community’s strength and unity. Families and friends came together, not just to celebrate but to share in the spirit of giving and compassion that Ramadan fosters. Amajda El Moudden, a French worshipper, added, “We are thinking about our brothers in Palestine. We are praying for peace somehow.”
Palestinian attendees, too, expressed a mix of joy and solemnity. Marah Alasadi, attending Eid prayers at the mosque for the first time, shared, “We are praying for a peaceful world.” This sentiment was echoed by Ali Tarsha, another Palestinian, who highlighted the significance of communal prayer as a source of solace and spiritual renewal.
A Testament to Faith and Resilience
The high turnout for prayers, with some attendees even standing outside the mosque, underscored the importance of Eid as a time for gratitude and reflection. Theasleem Eranikath from India remarked on the necessity of remembering the virtues of sacrifice and goodwill during Ramadan and beyond.
As the community in the UAE and around the world hopes for peace and stability, the Eid celebrations in Dubai reflect a profound collective desire for reconciliation and relief in conflict areas like Gaza. The UAE continues to play a significant role, both diplomatically and in humanitarian aid, advocating for peace and supporting those in need during these challenging times.
