Dubai: There are so many ways to celebrate Eid Al Adha in Dubai, in the coming days, you may be spoiled for choice.From live entertainment shows across the city to extended operating hours at major parks and attractions, and family-only beaches, Dubai has rolled out a series of initiatives to make the holiday festive and family-friendly.If, however, you are looking for a way to experience UAE’s culture and traditions this Eid, the Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE) has announced a series of initiatives organised by Dubai’s government entities, with a focus on local heritage. From book readings to warm Emirati dishes and community gatherings, you can immerse yourself in UAE’s culture and enjoy a truly memorable Eid Al Adha. Most of these events are completely free to access, and welcome people of all ages.Here are all the experiences on offer:1. ‘Open Up Mandoos’ launch eventJoin the launch of Emirati designer and cultural storyteller Shatha Essa Al Mulla’s new book, ‘Open Up Mandoos’, released in collaboration with Dubai Culture and Arts Authority. The warm Emirati story revives the spirit of the Season of Wulfa, and follows little Mohammed, as he discovers a glowing ‘mandoos’ (an intricately decorated wooden chest traditionally used in the Gulf region) in his garden. With key themes of tradition, family, and belonging, it’s a beautiful way to mark Eid and celebrate Emirati heritage.Details: May 25, 10am to 12pmLocation: Al Safa Library2. Eid FuwalaFood is central to the Eid experience, and Emirati culture’s ‘Fuwala’ is all about families and friends coming together over a feast of traditional dishes, sweets, seasonal fruits, dates, nuts and aromatic Arabic coffee. Learn about the origins of Emirati hospitality, via this long-standing tradition that is now available for the public to experience and enjoy. The programme has been organised by the Dubai Women Establishment (DWE) and DFRE.Details: May 25, 4pm to 6pmLocation: Al Khawaneej Walk3. Eid in Etihad MuseumIf you’re looking for something more hands-on, bring your family or friends to Etihad Museum, where a series of engaging workshops are exploring authentic Emirati values in a festive, Eid atmosphere. The museum is offering two workshops over three days – the ‘Create your Cultural Pouch’ workshop, where you will be taught how to make a traditional bag (which you can keep!), and the ‘My Family, My Values’ workshop that takes you on an exploration of the meaning and significance of family. While the workshops are free of charge, you will need to buy a museum entry ticket and register for the workshops on Etihad Museum’s website.Details: May 27 to May 29. First day: 1pm to 6pm. Second and third day: 11am to 6pm.Location: Etihad Museum, Classroom 1 and 2Register: etihadmuseum.dubaiculture.gov.ae4. Traditional abra rides and water taxisView Dubai from a completely different perspective, this Eid. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is encouraging residents and tourists to enjoy comfortable, air-conditioned journeys during Eid, along Dubai’s stunning waterfronts, and take in iconic views of landmarks, historic districts, and more. The traditional abras, which come from the Arabic word ‘abara’, meaning ‘to cross’, have a long, celebrated history in Dubai, and offer scenic views along Dubai Creek and other waterfront areas. There are two kinds available: canopied, open abras for short crossings, and modern abras with air-conditioning for longer trips. Although not free, fares for abras start from just Dh1. Make sure to check updated schedules on RTA’s website: rta.ae.Details: Every dayLocation: Popular routes include Bur Dubai to Deira Old Souq, Dubai old Souq to Al Sabkha, and Al Jaddaf to Dubai Festival City.5. Eid at Al Shindagha MuseumFrom learning to embroider on prints, to watching traditional Al Ayala performances (a traditional Emirati folk dance) there’s plenty to do during Eid Al Adha holidays, at Al Shindagha Museum, the UAE’s largest heritage museum. The museum is also home to the Eidiya Cultural Trail, a series of houses and pavilions that are open to visitors who would like to learn about Dubai’s history and culture through artefacts, films and archival photographs highlighting Eid traditions. You can even take part in ‘Gahwat Al Eid’, the age-old custom of serving Arabic coffee, and join others in the majlis, where the spirit of generosity and togetherness abounds. While the workshops are free, you will need to buy a museum ticket on Al Shindagha Museum’s website.Details: May 28 to May 31, 8am to 10pmLocation: Al Shindagha Museum, DubaiRegister: alshindagha.dubaiculture.gov.ae
