Muscat – With Eid just around the corner, there is palpable excitement in the air, as people prepare for the celebrations. Buying new clothes, decorating homes, stocking up on ingredients for special Eid dishes… there is a sense of urgency and anticipation everywhere. Others are finalising reservations and packing to fly to Dubai, Georgia or India among other destinations.

One of the most exciting aspects of Eid is the opportunity to spend time with family and friends. Many who do not wish to travel abroad will visit cousins in villages. Ahmed Hilal, a transport businessman, said, “After a month of fasting, it is a time to break the fast and share delicious food with loved ones. On the day of Eid, we will gather for prayers in mosques and then come together to enjoy traditional dishes such as biryani, kebabs and sweets. I will go to my village Bidiyah and spend time with my uncles and cousins.”

He added that he will present kummahs and scarves to the children in the family as gifts. “Children, in particular, are especially excited about Eid as they receive gifts and money from elders. We will visit our extended family and exchange gifts and greetings.”

Shekeel Ahmed is excited about seeing his family in India. “I am leaving on Wednesday. This is a good time for me to visit my old parents in Kerala. I am visiting them after a year and when best to meet them but during Eid. The festival back home is very colourful and we have lots of delicious food. Even the street food is amazing. Nothing beats the experience.”

Shopping for Eid is unavoidable, so malls and supermarkets are bustling with activity. Maryam al Kindi is preparing to welcome guests this Eid. With help from her husband, she has been decking out their garden with lights and furniture.

“This is the first Eid we are celebrating with friends without any restrictions after the pandemic. We want to make it memorable. It is a little challenging to make preparations while fasting, but we are dividing the work. That’s making it easier.”