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Aziza Ahmad finds herself without plans for Eid al-Fitr this year. With no family gatherings or gifts for the children, her heart is heavy. “There’s nothing to celebrate,” she says, as the ongoing conflict in Lebanon and the soaring cost of living overshadow the festivities marking the end of Ramadan.
Across the Middle East, from the bustling streets of Beirut to the glittering skyline of Dubai, and from the cultural hubs of Manama to the historic lanes of Jerusalem, the conclusion of the holy month of fasting brings little solace. For millions of Muslims, the joy of Eid is marred by the unrelenting turmoil and instability in the region.
In her modest Beirut apartment, Ahmad, 49, shares a cramped space with her husband, three sons, and nine other relatives. The small home has become a refuge for 12 people, all trying to make do with limited resources.
“Perhaps the wealthy are celebrating, but for us, the essence of Eid has vanished. We have no money, and those who have been displaced have no place to return to,” Ahmad laments.
In Lebanon, the economic crisis has been a constant for years, exacerbated now by conflict. Prices in local markets have surged, leaving many struggling to afford basic necessities.
On the eve of Eid, Ahmad set up a small pastry stall in front of her home to supplement her husband’s salary as a car washer.
“We won’t eat a single one; everything is for sale,” she said.
Kneading dough and crushing pistachios, the whole family was busy in the building’s entryway.
“We won’t even go out to play. Everyone is scared, Israel is striking, so we stay home,” said Yasmine, 11, a big pink ribbon in her hair.
Disruptions to life across the Gulf
In the Gulf, fear of bombings has also dampened the mood.
Long seen as the region’s safe havens, these countries have been the target of Iran’s retaliatory strikes following US-Israeli attacks on Iran from 28 February.
Nearly 30 people have been killed in Gulf states since the war broke out.
In Kuwait, authorities have temporarily banned plays, concerts and weddings during Eid al-Fitr to limit large gatherings.
Ali Ibrahim, a 41-year-old Egyptian working in Kuwait, said fewer customers than usual have turned up at stores to buy new clothes ahead of Eid.
Qatar also suspended all public events until further notice from the start of the conflict.
In the United Arab Emirates, outdoor prayers are banned for Eid and must be held inside mosques for security reasons.
Juhi Yasmeen Khan, a 53-year-old social worker from India who has lived in Dubai for nearly three decades, said “it doesn’t feel right to have a grand celebration” this year.
“Given the current situation, many of us are opting for intimate celebrations at home,” she said, adding that she would celebrate with her mother, sister and son.
“Together, we will keep the Eid spirit alive.”
‘This will surely pass’
For Palestinians in occupied East Jerusalem, Ramadan is incomplete this year after Israel shut Al-Aqsa Mosque, among other holy sites, over the ongoing war.
“There is a pain in our hearts because we are deprived of Al-Aqsa Mosque,” said Ihab, a 30-year-old who declined to share his last name.
This year, the lights and lanterns featuring Islamic designs, such as crescent moons, are absent from the streets.
The narrow passages of the usually bustling Old City emptied at the start of the conflict.
In Bahrain, people have been living to the sound of sirens ringing several times a day to warn of potential missile and drone threats.
At a beauty salon in the capital Manama, five-year-old Sarah waited to have her hands painted with henna ahead of Eid celebrations.
Her mother Maryam Abdullah said the war will not stop her family “from buying our Eid necessities and preparing for the holiday as we always have”.
“This will surely pass, and it won’t prevent us from enjoying the Eid atmosphere, even if it’s limited to visiting family at home,” she said.
Hessa Ahmed, a Bahraini employee in her thirties, was also intent on celebrating.
“I went shopping with my friend. We bought clothes and accessories and will prepare to celebrate Eid with family, relatives, and friends.”
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