Thousands of devoted worshippers came together at mosques across the UAE in a show of unity and celebration of faith to mark the start of Eid Al Fitr.
Family, friends and members of the community gathered to perform the traditional morning prayers that usher in one of the most significant festivals of the Islamic calendar.
This year, Eid Al Fitr is being observed against the backdrop of conflict. The UAE has defended itself against a daily barrage of air strikes from Iran since hostilities broke out on February 28.
Authorities announced this week that Eid prayers would be held indoors, not on prayer grounds or in open areas, to ensure the safety of worshippers in the UAE.
The decision was made by the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department in Dubai in co-ordination with the Department of Islamic Affairs in Sharjah.
The conflict with Iran did not dampen the spirit of worshippers, who praised authorities in the UAE for their efforts to keep them safe.
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Eid Al Fitr morning prayers at Bani Hashim Mosque in Abu Dhabi. Victor Besa / The National -
Eid prayers marking the end of Ramadan at Al Farooq Omar Bin Al Khattab Mosque in Al Safa, Dubai. Antonie Robertson / The National -
Worshippers at Bani Hashim Mosque at Friday prayers, marking the end of the holy month. Victor Besa / The National -
Devotees gather for Eid prayers at Al Farooq Omar Bin Al Khattab Mosque. Antonie Robertson / The National -
Worshippers heralding the start of the Eid Al Fitr holiday at Bani Hashim Mosque. Victor Besa / The National -
Hundreds of Muslim worshippers were drawn to Bani Hashim Mosque for Eid prayers. Victor Besa / The National -
Leading morning prayer at Al Farooq Omar Bin Al Khattab Mosque. Antonie Robertson / The National -
The Quran is read at Bani Hashim Mosque. Victor Besa / The National -
Eid Al Fitr morning prayers at Bani Hashim Mosque. Victor Besa / The National -
Al Farooq Omar Bin Al Khattab Mosque is packed for the end of Ramadan and the beginning of Eid AL Fitr. Antonie Robertson / The National
"It's normal, everything is normal. They are protecting us very, very well. We feel we are safe - the things here are normal and everything is available here," said Mastan Sayyid from India, who was worshipping at the Mosque Of Sheikh Hazza Bin Sultan in Abu Dhabi.
"Life is normal. They're protecting us."
Muhammad Ramees from India said the war had not changed the importance of celebrating due Eid Al Fitr.
"We are celebrating after Ramadan and there is a feeling of togetherness. I don't think anything has changed," he said.
Ahmed Mohammed from Egypt said the Eid atmosphere remained unchanged despite the conflict in the region.
"Here there is safety and security. It's a very beautiful celebration by the kind people of the Emirates. There's nothing wrong," he said.
The start date of Eid was confirmed on Wednesday by the country's moon-sighting committee.
Eid Al Fitr is one of two holy feasts celebrated by Muslims worldwide.
It is a joyful occasion marked by morning prayers, family get-togethers and the giving of gifts and charitable donations.
Extended break for workers
Public and private sector workers are enjoying a long weekend in honour of Eid Al Fitr.
The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources and the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation announced last month that the holiday for workers would begin on Thursday, March 19. Work will resume on Monday, March 23, for public and private sector employees.
