Eid Al Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting. A joyful occasion, it prompts dynamic celebrations, captivating live performances and all kinds of family fun. The usual line-up of scintillating fireworks and sales are running on schedule, but if you’re looking for something a little offbeat, here some top-notch options:
Spend the day with Russell Peters
Spend Eid in a fit of laughter as celebrity funnyman Russell Peters takes to the stage at the brand new Coca-Cola Arena. A renowned performer, Peters paved the path for comedians around the world as the first stand-up to release a Netflix special. He has sold out countless shows around the world – including Dubai in 2016 – and is currently on his incredibly successful Deported World Tour.
When: 6 June
Where: Coca-Cola Arena
More info
A sing-along Eid special with Tamer Hosny
Celebrate the arrival of Eid with famed Egyptian singer-songwriter Tamer Hosny. The award-winning artist is performing from his repertoire of romantic hits at Dubai Opera, including singles from his wildly successful 2018 album Aish Beshouak. This past year, Hosny performed at the Special Olympics Abu Dhabi World Games, and won a Murex d'Or as the Best Male Arab Singer, so concert-goers can expect high energy and excitement from the superstar.
When: 6 June
Where: Dubai Opera
More info
Shop and win up to AED250,000
This year even adults are entitled to Eidiyat, the customary gift of money during Eid. Spend AED200 at select malls in Dubai to enter a raffle draw where you can be one of the 25 winners eligible for a Play and Win challenge. The game features nine separate balls labelled from one to nine and each winner gets to select up to four balls at random. Based on the order you choose, the numbers reflect how much money you get to take home! There is a total of AED250,000 up for grabs, so start shopping to start winning. The raffle runs from 23 May to 7 June, and winners will be selected during the three days of Eid.
When: 23 May - 7 June
Where: Al Bustan Centre, Al Mulla Plaza, BurJuman, Al Barsha Mall, City Centre Me'aisem, Dubai Outlet Mall, Etihad Mall, Oasis Mall, Reef Mall, Time Square Centre
More info
Story time with Sheibitna
One of Dubai’s most beautiful Eid traditions returns to The Dubai Mall. Bring the whole family to meet and spend time with Sheibitna, a wise, grandfatherly figure who tells stories and shares treats with children. This activity encourages the general public to meet and interact with the elderly in the UAE, featuring real-life grandfathers from seniors' homes across the UAE. It’s a wonderful way for little ones to learn about local traditions and tales in an enchanting environment.
When: 23 May - 8 June
Where: The Dubai Mall
More info
Edutainment for the whole family
Bring children along to Children’s City, where they can enjoy themed activities for the first two days of Eid. Find engaging and immersive workshops and hands-on activities to learn about local traditions, customs and practices during Eid Al Fitr. This destination blends the best of education and fun, so everyone can learn something new in a playful setting.
When: 6-7 June
Where: Children’s City, Creek Park
More info
Laugh with Idowest and top Nigerian stars
Enjoy an evening of live music, stand-up and comedy skits with top celebrities from Nigeria. Award-winning musician Idowest, stand-up Kenny Blaq, comic Saco, The Ikon Boy and a slew of other can’t-miss artists are putting on a heavyweight night of fun at The Medicine with Sheik Pappy and Friends. This show is open to families and children of all ages, so everyone can enjoy a good laugh this Eid Al Fitr.
When: 7 June
Where: Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers
More info
Take a detour into history
Be a part of maritime history aboard Dubai’s first floating hotel, the Queen Elizabeth 2. This storied ocean liner once carried the likes of Nelson Mandela and David Bowie, and was a symbol of innovation and engineering in her heyday. Now permanently docked at Dubai’s Port Rashid, visitors can journey through her historic passageways and rooms on an interactive guided tour. Afterwards, celebrate the day over lunch with the family at any one of the QE2's trendy dining spots using the AED100 voucher included in your ticket.
When: 6 June
Where: Coca-Cola Arena
More info
Explore Turkish poetry with a celebrated writer
Writer, poet and television host Sunay Akin is a renowned figure in Turkey’s literary and cultural scene. His poetry displays evocative detail and his immersive performances encourage audiences to break down the barriers between looking and seeing. His show at GEMS World Academy is definitely an unconventional way to spend the holiday, and you can immerse yourself in Turkish poetry inspired by greats such as Orhan Veli Kanik and Cemal Süreya.
When: 7 June
Where: GEMS World Academy
More info
Eid on the run
For many, Ramadan’s calendar was packed with delicious Iftar and Suhoor feasts, often filled with sweet treats. Now’s your chance to work off the extra calories. The Dubai Desert Road Run, hosted at The Sevens Stadium, lets visitors race for 3km, 5km or 10km distances on a safe, traffic-free path. Enjoy raffle draws, spot prizes and even post-race food and drinks for a guilt-free Eid.
When: 7 June
Where: The Sevens
More info
Hot tunes with Adam Levine
Eid may have passed but the celebrations don’t have to end yet. Keep post-Ramadan festivities rolling with the kings of back-to-back radio hits, Maroon 5, at Coca-Cola Arena. The Grammy-winning band is performing their first show in Dubai in eight years. With chart-toppers like ‘Moves Like Jagger’, ‘Sugar’ and ‘Payphone’ in Maroon 5's arsenal, concert-goers can expect an evening full of singing and dancing.
When: 14 June
Where: Coca-Cola Arena
More info
Meet England’s master jester Alan Davies
You can’t go wrong with Alan Davies, who has been leading England’s comedy game since 1988. Ever since he was crowned Time Out’s Best Young Comic in 1991, the stand-up’s career has been on an upwards path featuring global tours, television shows, radio appearances, films and even a permanent seat on the game show QI’s comedy panel. Catch Davies live at Dubai Opera.
When: 14 June
Where: Dubai Opera
More info
Visit dubaicalendar.com or download the app to stay up-to-date with Eid Al Fitr events in Dubai.
