Top 12 getaways for Eid this year

Wego, the online travel marketplace in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), has revealed the top destinations in demand for UAE travellers for Eid El Fitr 2023.

With Eid just around the corner, many people in the UAE are already planning their vacations to celebrate the occasion with their loved ones.

Here is a list of the top Eid getaways that hold strong attractions for a long weekend.

India

India tops the list of most searched countries this Eid, according to Wego’s data.

Eid in India is a time of togetherness, reflection and celebration, and it is observed with great fervour and spirit across the country. India blends ancient mosques and modern skyscrapers, bustling bazaars, exotic spices and lush natural beauty.

The bazaars are a maze of alleys offering unique handicrafts, textiles and art. The natural beauty ranges from snow-capped peaks to sun-kissed beaches.

Egypt

Following India is Egypt standing at the second place.

In Egypt, family gatherings and endless festivities paint the country with an air of joy and excitement. The scent of frankincense and myrrh fills the air as towering pyramids rise in the distance, adorned with hieroglyphics telling stories of ancient civilisations.

UAE

Up next is the UAE. With the long weekend, UAE residents may also opt to explore their own backyard, which will explode with festivities and a plethora of activities to indulge in. For those wishing to stay local this Eid, residents can enjoy a wide range of staycation options within the UAE, be it luxurious beach resorts, Bedouin-style desert camps or adventurous mountain retreats.

Saudi Arabia

Coming in fourth position is Saudi Arabia. The kingdom offers an opportunity to immerse yourself in Eid and Ramadan customs that have been preserved for centuries.

One of the most significant Eid customs that you can experience in Saudi is the Five Salawat, a set of special prayers performed in congregation. This is a time for families and communities to come together, reflect on their faith, and share in the joy of the occasion.

Jordan

Jordan stands fifth on the list. It is a fascinating destination to visit at any time of year, but during the Eid celebrations, it truly comes alive with a vibrancy. The country is transformed into a vibrant spectacle, with the streets and buildings decorated with bright lights, flags and banners.

Take advantage of the festive season and explore the harmony of modernity and tradition in Amman by wandering through bustling markets lit up in different colours and lights for Eid and savour delicious local cuisine in a vibrant cosmopolitan atmosphere.

No trip to Jordan will be complete without a visit to Petra, where visitors will be transported back in time as they gaze at this historical and archaeological marvel carved into red sandstone cliffs.

Morocco

Ranking sixth on the list is Morocco.

Eid is a time of joy and celebration, and Moroccans know how to celebrate it well. Join in the festivities by attending cultural events, visiting local markets, or simply enjoying the festive atmosphere on the streets.

From the bustling markets of Marrakech to the windswept dunes of the Sahara, Morocco is a place that ignites the imagination and stirs the soul. Vibrant hues of oranges, pinks, and blues adorn the walls of the buildings, while ornate tiles and intricate carvings adorn the doorways and arches.

Turkey

Turkey stands seventh on the list. As a muslim majority country, visiting Turkey during Eid provides a unique opportunity to experience the local culture, cuisine, and festivities. Turkey is a country that captivates the senses with its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture.

Stroll through the winding streets of Istanbul, where the sound of the call to prayer mingles with the bustle of vendors hawking their wares, where the air is thick with the scent of spices, and the colorful textiles that hang from every storefront catch the eye at every turn.

Thailand

Thailand stands eighth on this list. Eid al-Fitr, also known as “Wan Piya Wan Sawm” in Thailand, is celebrated by the Muslim community in Thailand. Cultural events, festive gatherings, and other events provide an opportunity to experience the true spirit of Thai Muslim culture during Eid.

Lebanon

Ranking ninth on this list is Lebanon. It is a diverse country and the joyous festival marking the end of Ramadan, is celebrated with great enthusiasm and zeal. The festivities extend for a period of three days, brimming with traditional customs and family oriented events that add to the Eid spirit.

United States

The United States stands 10th on the list. The United States is a melting pot of cultures, and its diversity is what makes it such a unique and fascinating country. One of the many cultures that contribute to this diversity is the Muslim community, which celebrates the festival of Eid with great fervour across the country.

The US is a country where every corner holds the promise of adventure and discovery. From the rolling hills of the Appalachian Mountains to the sun-drenched beaches of the West Coast, there is something here for everyone. Stand atop a rocky peak, surveying the breathtaking expanse of the Grand Canyon as the sun sets in a blaze of crimson and gold. Or wander the vibrant streets of New Orleans, where the air is thick with the scent of creole spices and jazz music fills the night.

United Kingdom

Standing in the 11th position is the United Kingdom.

The celebration of Eid in the UK is a vibrant and imaginative display of the country’s diversity and multiculturalism. With the upcoming coronation in May and the anticipated travel during Eid in April, visitors to the UK may witness the festive preparations in various cities, particularly in London.

Canada

Coming up at the 12th position is Canada. The festive atmosphere in Canada during Eid is palpable, with the streets ringing with the joyful sounds of Eid greetings and the bright traditional clothing that is donned for the occasion.

Communities come together to organise lively Eid bazaars and fairs, offering an array of traditional clothes, food, and crafts that create an atmosphere of celebration and togetherness.

In certain cities, Eid carnivals and parades are arranged, showcasing the diverse cultures and traditions within the Canadian Muslim community, adding to the vibrancy and joy of the occasion.

Read: UAE announces Eid Al Fitr holidays for public, private sectors

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