Eve of Eid Al Adha

Element Name

Eve of Eid Al Adha

Other Names

Eid Night, Night of Al Eid Al 'Oud

Practice Environment

All environments

Practice Location

All Emirates of the UAE

Scope of Practice

All segments of society

Heritage Domain/ Category

Social Practices and Festive Events

Element Type/ Subcategory

Celebrations and religious events

Current Status

Living heritage

The Eve of Eid Al Adha in the UAE is a deeply rooted religious and social occasion characterized by the recitation of the takbir and preparations to welcome Eid in a spirit of joy and family cohesion. On this night, families prepare sacrificial animals and new clothes, while women and girls decorate themselves with henna, an authentic inherited custom that remains present today. Homes and majlises are also scented with incense to welcome guests and create a festive atmosphere. One of the prominent traditional practices in the past was setting up the mirhanah, a traditional swing, beneath trees, where girls gathered to play, reflecting the social and communal enjoyment of Emirati culture. The fawalah, consisting of traditional dishes and sweets, particularly harees, was also prepared in readiness to receive guests on Eid morning, clearly expressing values of generosity and hospitality. These practices are associated with tangible and symbolic elements that reflect Emirati cultural identity and affirm the continuity of customs and traditions linked to religious occasions.

Criteria Applicable to Nominate Element

01

Presence in Collective Memory and Intergenerational Cohesion: A cultural element is considered deeply rooted when it is held in the collective memory of the community and forms part of their daily experiences, occasions, and social relationships. It also contributes to strengthening the bonds of interaction between different generations, as it is transmitted from elders to younger members, providing a space for celebration and communal participation, thereby creating a sense of belonging and continuity.

02

Geographical or Cultural Specificity: The element is characterized by its association with a specific geographic area or cultural group within the country, giving it a unique identity that distinguishes it from other practices. This element represents part of the social and cultural history of the community, enhancing its value as a distinctive component of local or national identity.

03

Continuity and Intergenerational Transmission: The element is passed from one generation to the next, either orally through stories, songs, and narratives, or practically through training and hands-on practice. This living process ensures the element’s survival and development over time, while maintaining its connection to its cultural roots.

04

Local Artistic or Technical Creativity: The element embodies creativity that originated from the local environment, whether in the materials used, methods of performance, or design patterns. This creativity may have developed collectively, reflecting how people interact with their surroundings and respond to their needs in an innovative way that expresses collective intelligence.