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


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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. 

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Awar Qalb

Director: Jamal Salem

Starring: Abdulla Zaid, Joma Ali, Neven Madi and Khadija Sleiman

Two stars