Expats mark Eid with prayer, feast and family gathering

As the light of dawn broke over Dubai on Friday, families across the city began their day with anticipation, wearing their best clothes to celebrate one of the most special mornings of the year — Eid Al Adha.

- Nandini Sircar

Among them was Shehna Mansoor, a Dubai resident, who made her way to New Generation School (NGS) in Barsha with her husband, children, and mother, all together for the Eid prayers—a moment of faith and tradition.

“It was the first time we attended Eid prayers at this place,” she said. “It was a great community experience where I met a lot of friends and family members. My kids had Eid treats from the ice cream truck. There were children and families handing out little goodie bags. It was a really great start to my Eid.”

The atmosphere at NGS was vibrant, filled with familiar faces and laughter. At the centre of this yearly gathering stood Sheikh Ayaz Housee, the long-time Imam of NGS.

“We have built a family here and we get anywhere between 500 and 1200 people every Eid,” he said. “We serve karak and some snacks. There are bouncy castles for children to play at.”

Syrian expat Aiham Joratli, a resident of Al Ain, made the long drive to Sharjah with his wife, Samar Razuk, and their children to attend a special family gathering.