The Joy of Eidiya: A Time-Honored Tradition in the UAE
As Eid approaches, the atmosphere in the UAE is electric with anticipation. Banks across the Emirates witness a surge of residents eagerly queuing up to collect crisp new banknotes in preparation for one of the most cherished traditions: Eidiya, the delightful custom of gifting money to children. For many families, this practice is an essential part of the celebratory spirit, marking the joy and generosity associated with the festival.
For children, Eidiya often represents the highlight of Eid celebrations. Young ones like seven-year-old Shama are already plotting how to spend their eagerly awaited cash gifts. Shama has saved a portion of her previous Eidiya, intending to treat herself to a bicycle this season, while also planning to donate part of it to those less fortunate. It’s a beautiful and heartwarming gesture that exemplifies the essence of giving that Eid embodies.
Ten-year-old Ghala can’t wait to receive Eidiya from her favorite gift-giver—her mom! Excitedly, she plans to use her cash gift to expand her video game collection this time around. And then there’s Alya, also age 7, who emphasizes the importance of her trusty bag during Eid celebrations, as it’s essential for collecting her Eidiya!
A Tradition Steeped in History
The tradition of Eidiya, deriving its name from the Arabic word “Eid,” meaning feast or celebration, has deep historical roots in the region. Historians trace its origins back to the Fatimid Caliphate in Egypt, where the practice began as a way to foster community spirit through generosity. During that time, lavish feasts and the distribution of sweets, money, and gifts were commonplace, laying the groundwork for what we now recognize as modern Eidiya.
Reflecting on the evolution of this custom, 53-year-old Adel fondly recalls a simpler era when receiving Dh1 and some candies from neighbors was the norm. “In those days, we would roam the neighborhood collecting our Eidiya. Today, the tradition has grown, with children often expecting higher amounts and fancy presentations like decorated envelopes,” he describes.
While Eidiya gifts can range from toys and clothing to sweets, cash remains the most popular option, often elegantly presented in ornamental envelopes. A notable trend is the introduction of cryptocurrency as a form of Eidiya, allowing parents to educate their children about modern financial practices and investment.
Eidiya is more than just monetary gifts; it symbolizes love, community, and the joy of giving. As the UAE gets ready to celebrate Eid, this wonderful tradition continues to create cherished moments and lasting memories for families across the nation.
Stay tuned as we celebrate the spirit of Eid and its impact on our communities.
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