Festivals serve as engines for domestic businesses
Eid holidays significantly boost local tourism in many countries, as people take advantage of the extended break to explore their own regions. This trend leads to increased bookings and higher occupancy rates in hotels and tourism-related businesses
Published: 07:04 PM,Apr 01,2025 | EDITED : 11:04 PM,Apr 01,2025
Festivals possess a unique ability to unite individuals by cultivating a sense of community and preserving the rich tapestry of human heritage. In other words, they serve as vibrant expressions of culture, tradition, beliefs, social connections and legacies that transcend mere celebrations.
Celebrating a festival with family and friends strengthens bonds, revitalises community life and provides an excellent opportunity to break the monotony of daily routines. During a festival, we experience a sense of belonging, along with a shift in the atmosphere and an abundance of positivity all around.
Festivals have long held significance in all human cultures, although the oldest festivals were primarily religious in nature. Traditionally, these celebrations included a sacred communal meal or feast. Consequently, the term was often used interchangeably with
History demonstrates that ancient Greek and Roman societies relied heavily on both communal and administrative festivals. The term was originally used as an adjective in the late 14th century, deriving from Latin through Old French.
The Gulf countries are home to extraordinary and diverse festivals that contribute to the sharing of culture and traditions. These festivals also provide socio-economic benefits to local communities and play a significant role in boosting tourism.
Eid Al Fitr, meaning of Breaking the Fast, is celebrated at the conclusion of Ramadhan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. This occasion allows Muslims to express their gratitude for the strength and patience demonstrated throughout this sacred month.
Though it is primarily a religious observance, Eid is also a sensory festival, where vibrant flavours, joyful gatherings and delectable dining converge in an unforgettable celebration. More than just a holiday, it serves as an economic engine that drives domestic businesses.
A substantial amount of cash exchanges hands during this period, sparking a surge of economic activity across various sectors, including buyers, retailers, wholesalers, manufacturers and transporters. The entire supply chain — from fabric wholesalers to tailors — benefits from the season.
Eid holidays significantly boost local tourism in many countries, as people take advantage of the extended break to explore their own regions. This trend leads to increased bookings and higher occupancy rates in hotels and tourism-related businesses. Popular destinations experience high demand, fuelled by strong cultural and familial connections.
The increase in domestic travel is driven by a wider variety of destinations, accommodations and experiences that appeal to leisure travellers.
In recent years, Gulf countries have experienced a significant boost during the Eid holidays, with increased domestic and international travel resulting in surges in bookings and revenue for hotels, airlines and other tourism-related businesses.
However, this year’s celebration occurred against the backdrop of Israel’s ongoing conflict in Gaza. Instead of celebrating Eid, many individuals visited the graves of their loved ones in makeshift cemeteries. There were no meals, gifts for children, or donations to the less fortunate.
Reports and images indicate that many families are consuming canned food while living in cramped tents. Video footage of the aftermath of the strike reveals some child victims dressed in new Eid clothing.
The war has tragically inflicted a devastating toll on the lives of children. Hundreds of thousands of children are affected by the escalation of hostilities in Gaza and are in urgent need of humanitarian assistance and protection.
Gaza's population is among the youngest in the world, with nearly half of its 2.3 million residents under the age of 18. These children endure constant bombardment, many of them crammed into temporary shelters within schools. Unfortunately, even these shelters are not safe, as schools have been targeted and struck by bombs.
The writer is a freelance journalist and author who worked in Oman and India
Celebrating a festival with family and friends strengthens bonds, revitalises community life and provides an excellent opportunity to break the monotony of daily routines. During a festival, we experience a sense of belonging, along with a shift in the atmosphere and an abundance of positivity all around.
Festivals have long held significance in all human cultures, although the oldest festivals were primarily religious in nature. Traditionally, these celebrations included a sacred communal meal or feast. Consequently, the term was often used interchangeably with
History demonstrates that ancient Greek and Roman societies relied heavily on both communal and administrative festivals. The term was originally used as an adjective in the late 14th century, deriving from Latin through Old French.
The Gulf countries are home to extraordinary and diverse festivals that contribute to the sharing of culture and traditions. These festivals also provide socio-economic benefits to local communities and play a significant role in boosting tourism.
Eid Al Fitr, meaning of Breaking the Fast, is celebrated at the conclusion of Ramadhan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. This occasion allows Muslims to express their gratitude for the strength and patience demonstrated throughout this sacred month.
Though it is primarily a religious observance, Eid is also a sensory festival, where vibrant flavours, joyful gatherings and delectable dining converge in an unforgettable celebration. More than just a holiday, it serves as an economic engine that drives domestic businesses.
A substantial amount of cash exchanges hands during this period, sparking a surge of economic activity across various sectors, including buyers, retailers, wholesalers, manufacturers and transporters. The entire supply chain — from fabric wholesalers to tailors — benefits from the season.
Eid holidays significantly boost local tourism in many countries, as people take advantage of the extended break to explore their own regions. This trend leads to increased bookings and higher occupancy rates in hotels and tourism-related businesses. Popular destinations experience high demand, fuelled by strong cultural and familial connections.
The increase in domestic travel is driven by a wider variety of destinations, accommodations and experiences that appeal to leisure travellers.
In recent years, Gulf countries have experienced a significant boost during the Eid holidays, with increased domestic and international travel resulting in surges in bookings and revenue for hotels, airlines and other tourism-related businesses.
However, this year’s celebration occurred against the backdrop of Israel’s ongoing conflict in Gaza. Instead of celebrating Eid, many individuals visited the graves of their loved ones in makeshift cemeteries. There were no meals, gifts for children, or donations to the less fortunate.
Reports and images indicate that many families are consuming canned food while living in cramped tents. Video footage of the aftermath of the strike reveals some child victims dressed in new Eid clothing.
The war has tragically inflicted a devastating toll on the lives of children. Hundreds of thousands of children are affected by the escalation of hostilities in Gaza and are in urgent need of humanitarian assistance and protection.
Gaza's population is among the youngest in the world, with nearly half of its 2.3 million residents under the age of 18. These children endure constant bombardment, many of them crammed into temporary shelters within schools. Unfortunately, even these shelters are not safe, as schools have been targeted and struck by bombs.
The writer is a freelance journalist and author who worked in Oman and India