Eid Al Fitr gifting: The best items to buy from the Middle East's independent brands and small businesses

Here's how to cherish loved ones and support local companies at the same time

Eid Al Fitr is just around the corner and now is the time to make sure you have gifts for those you love. With the Covid-19 pandemic still casting its shadow over the world, now, more than ever, is the time to show people that we are thinking of them.

For many, this could be a good opportunity to rethink how, and where, we shop. Maybe now is a good time to support the many talented regional brands on offer, choosing Eid gifts designed and created by them, or sold on the UAE's homegrown e-shopping platforms.

If the women in your family like make-up, why not choose a brush by cult brand Shay Up, or for the more fashion forward, perhaps a pair of designer-of-the-moment Amina Muaddi shoes?

Everyone will love the gift set from one of Dubai's most Instagrammed cafes, Tania's Tea House, while Sugargram serves delicious bite-sized cupcakes by the box. Foodies will also love the serving set from Aura.

UAE companies Ounass and Namshi both offer huge varieties of brands, from a Marshall portable speaker to precious perfume by Hind Al Oud, and even jewellery by Lebanese brand Bil Arabi. More jewellery comes courtesy of MKS Jewellery, with delicate 18-karat gold charms, while Dori has a range of pretty earrings trimmed with tiny hand-stitched pearl beads.

Whatever the taste of friends and family, we have rounded up a selection of the best the region has to offer in the gallery above.