DUBAI // Thousands of worshippers joined Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, in performing the Eid Al Adha prayer at Sheikh Rashid Mosque on Thursday.
The prayer was led by Dr Ahmed Abdul Aziz, Senior Mufti at the Department of Islamic Affairs and Charity in Dubai, who urged people to convey the spirit of Eid through acts of love, kindness and benevolence.
Across the emirate, mosques overflowed with worshippers, some having to perform their prayers outside. Afterwards, traditional greetings abounded, with Emiratis nose bumping, kissing and hugging as they wished each other.
Mohammed Abbas, 33, went to his local mosque in his new Eid clothes, accompanied by his two sons. After the morning prayer, the trio went to pay their respects to Sheikh Mohammed.
“After the prayer, we’re going to stop by the nearby Zabeel Palace and wish Sheikh Mohammed a blessed Eid,” Mr Abbas said.
Sheikh Rashid Mosque held bittersweet memories for the father. “Sheikh Rashid bin Mohammed’s funeral was held here on Saturday,” he said. “It’s a sad Eid and it’s been a sad month, which is more reason for us to show our love and support to His Highness.”
At the mosque, the congregation also prayed to Allah to bestow eternal peace on the country’s past rulers, soldiers and the late Sheikh Rashid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who died last Saturday aged 33.
Other officials who prayed at Sheikh Rashid Mosque included Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai, Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and UAE Minister of Finance, and Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed, Deputy Ruler of Dubai.
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