Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan, will occur this week. While the exact date of the day is dependent on moon sightings, UAE officials have announced a 4-day long weekend. Beginning on Thursday, March 19, continuing through Sunday, March 22, it is a weekend for celebration, connection, and a moment to honour traditions.
Usually, we could expect the country to be extravagant with its celebrations—hosting bespoke Eid offers and a plethora of fireworks and drone shows. However, with the current war raising a serious safety issue, most spots in the UAE have cancelled their fireworks and drone shows. But there are still plenty of ways to make the most of the long weekend, all while staying vigilant. Here are some things you can do over the upcoming 4-day weekend.
Abu Dhabi
Stay at Yas Plaza Hotels | Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Offering a long weekend escape featuring the best of what Yas Island has to offer, a stay at Yas Plaza Hotel brings something for everyone. Prices at Dhs 885 per night (excluding tax), guests will also receive access to all Yas Island theme parks. So motorsport fans can get their thrill at Ferrari World, swimmers can relax at Yas Waterworld, children can meet their favourite characters at Warner Bros. World, and marine lovers can get their fix at SeaWorld Yas Island Abu Dhabi. Beyond that, guests can also enjoy private access to Cyan Beach, swimming pools, spas, and wellness facilities, complimentary shuttle services across Yas Island, and dining outlets that fuel the weekend.
Stay at Aldhafra Resort, Vignette Collection | Liwa
With the weather still pleasant and cool, why not spend Eid by the desert? Aldhafra Resort, tucked in the Liwa desert, is offering 30% off stays, complimentary room upgrades, and Dhs 150 dining credit, valid for UAE and GCC residents. For those who aren’t looking to stay but would still love to spend a day with the sand dunes, the desert resort will also host an Eid brunch. Taking place between 19-22 March from 12:30–3:30 PM, guests can expect seasonal flavours set against the dunes of the Empty Quarter. A tranquil and unique spot, it makes for an Eid where connection is celebrated.
Stay at Al Raha Beach Resort & Spa | Al Rahah, Abu Dhabi
For those looking to savour a staycation in Abu Dhabi, Al Raha Beach Resort & Spa pairs its private beach and wellness facilities alongside a special Eid buffet dinner. Held at La Piscine Garden from 6:30–10:00 PM, guests can enjoy regional flavours in the form of hot and cold mezzeh, live grills, and more. Live oud music grounds the night into a warm and celebratory atmosphere where conversations over plates can follow deep into the night.
Dubai
STAY by Yannick Alléno | One&Only The Palm
For those looking for a midday celebration, STAY by Yannick Alléno provides a midday feast from 12:30–3:30 PM among lush gardens. The three-course menu highlights technique, composition and the finest ingredients that make up the chef’s interpretation of French cuisine. Priced at Dhs 500 per person, it’s a fun way to mark the occasion with new flavours.
Capture Memories with Fujifilm QuickSnap™
For the sentimental folk who love to capture memories as they come, Fujifilm’s latest QuickSnap™ does exactly that, one frame at a time. The disposable 35mm film camera is your typical point-and-shoot camera designed for intentionality over spamming. With 27 exposures and that distinctive analogue feel to each photo, it captures the present by bringing out the textures of the past, something we have slowly grown to love. So if you find yourself looking for a fun way to preserve this Eid’s memories, give the Fujifilm QuickSnap™ a go.
Eid Lunch at Asateer Tent | Atlantis, The Palm
Every year, Asateer Tent becomes the Ramadan majlis to go to. This year, for the first time, they will continue to operate throughout Eid, serving up an Eid lunch buffet. Held from 20–21 March from 12 PM onwards, the brunch is priced at Dhs 300 per person and will feature crowd-pleasing regional favourites alongside live entertainment.
Aura Skypool | The Palm Tower, Palm Jumeirah
Aura Skypool, along with a host of Dubai attractions, have become free for the public for a limited time. The 360° infinity pool is currently offering 500 tickets throughout March on a first-come, first-served basis. The pool wraps around The Palm Tower, offering sunshine and panoramic views unlike any other. And on weekends, you can find floating immersive breathwork classes that use sound therapy to relax and reset the nervous system. Held on Saturdays at 6:30 AM and on Sundays at 8 PM and priced at Dhs 400 per person, it’s a holistic way to decompress over the long weekend.
La Perle | Al Habtoor City
Another local spot offering a bargain in celebration of Eid, La Perle’s Gift of Wonder includes 45% off tickets and complimentary popcorn. And if you’ve never experienced the show before, expect aqua-acrobatics, jaw-dropping stunts, and more.
