Related: 23 Eid staycations across the UAE
Millions of Muslims across the globe marked the advent of Ramadan this week.
The holy month offers an opportunity for prayers and reflection, compassion and generosity.
The conclusion of Ramadan will usher in another important festival in the Islamic calendar, Eid Al Fitr.
What is Eid Al Fitr?
Marking the end of Ramadan, Eid Al Fitr is considered the feast of fast breaking. Practices vary around the world, but commonly include morning prayers, public holidays, visiting with family and friends, new clothing and henna, gift-giving, and charity donations.
When is Eid Al Fitr and how is the start determined?
The end of the month will be confirmed in the same way as the beginning, by a moon-sighting committee tasked with spotting the new crescent moon.
The duration of the holy month is decided by the Islamic calendar, which consists of 12 lunar months totalling either 354 or 355 days.
That means each month can last either 29 or 30 days.
This year, in the UAE, Ramadan is expected to be on the longer side, at 30 days, according to astronomers.
This would give Eid Al Fitr a likely start date of May 13.
However, an official decision will be announced on the 29th day of Ramadan, on Tuesday, May 11.
Eid Al Fitr coincides with the start of Shawwal, the month following Ramadan.
How do people celebrate Eid?
On the first day of Eid, Muslims typically wake just before dawn to perform Eid prayers at mosques.
Muslims tend to wear new clothes and visit family and friends.
This year's celebrations will be muted, but no less important, as gatherings will be limited to prevent the spread of Covid-19.
Celebrations tend to last three days.
What does Eid Mubarak mean?
The phrase "Eid Mubarak" is used to wish a happy and blessed Eid.
