The tourist destinations, entertainment spots, and hotels in the UAE are experiencing a noticeable surge in activity coinciding with the Eid al-Fitr holiday. This increase is driven by a significant turnout of families and residents who are eager to take part in various events and promotions organized across different emirates to celebrate the occasion.
The lively atmosphere is closely associated with a diverse range of programs and activities, especially those targeted at families, which include entertainment shows, children’s events, shopping festivals, and promotional offers from shopping centers and tourist attractions.
Abu Dhabi, in particular, has seen a significant uptick in visitors to various entertainment and tourism sites, with Yas Island offering numerous leisure activities and accommodation options for families during the holiday.
Sheikh Zayed National Museum
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque serves as a primary attraction for visitors during Eid. The Sheikh Zayed National Museum is hosting “Eid Joy,” an interactive community event celebrating the Year of the Family 2026, which unites local residents and visitors through cultural performances, workshops, interactive experiences, and activities inspired by Emirati heritage within the museum’s exhibition halls and public spaces.
The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi is also organizing the second edition of the “Ghaith Al Ain Festival,” offering a fresh look and more cultural and entertainment experiences from March 20 to 27 in the outdoor area of the ADNEC Al Ain Center, celebrating the spirit of Eid al-Fitr with a variety of shows and activities.
In Dubai, various events are pulling large crowds to prominent attractions such as the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Mall.
Dubai Expo
Dubai Expo features a wide array of Eid activities starting with “Eid in Terra,” running from the first day of Eid until March 22. This cultural festival embodies the essence of Eid, harmonizing innovation, tradition, and nature. Families can hang messages of hope and wishes on the Eid Wish Tree at the heart of Terra Gardens.
Visitors can explore heritage workshops focused on weaving and palm frond crafting, as well as creative workshops for decorating lanterns, Eid cards, Islamic geometric arts, and nature-inspired clay arts. Guests can also enjoy camel rides and get up close with animals.
During the Eid celebrations, Dubai Expo is also offering complimentary entry to the “Dubai Vision” experience. This immersive showcase highlights the journey of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, and provides families an opportunity to reflect on the values of leadership, resilience, and the city’s history over the years.
The Spring Camp for Little Explorers at Expo is also launching and will run until March 27, alongside a musical evening celebrating Mother’s Day.
Marjan Fereidouni, Head of People and Education at Dubai Expo City, emphasized that Expo Dubai provides spaces for visitors of all ages and cultures to come together and celebrate while sharing their experiences.
Free Entry to Miracle Garden
The Dubai Miracle Garden has announced free entry from March 15 to the end of the month, while other destinations in Dubai are offering similar incentives, including free access to Aquaventure and The Lost Chambers Aquarium for both locals and tourists from March 10 to 22.
Professionals in the hospitality sector confirmed that the Eid al-Fitr season represents a crucial period for local tourism, with hotels and resorts eager to unveil special packages that include accommodation and leisure activities, significantly bolstering hotel occupancy rates during the holiday.
Hotel Offers
Hossni Abdelhadi, CEO of Carlton Hotels in the UAE, noted that the sector generally looks forward to the Eid period each year, as it experiences a notable increase in demand and bookings.
He explained that current demand is strong, particularly as many residents choose to spend the Eid holiday within the country, highlighting that numerous hotels are offering special packages that include discounts and offers during the holiday period.
He affirmed that domestic tourism is a key driver of demand during Eid al-Fitr, supported by the variety of events and celebrations happening across the emirates.
Waleed Al-Awa, General Manager of Tamani Hotel, confirmed that the Dubai hotel sector is achieving good occupancy levels during Eid al-Fitr, driven primarily by domestic tourism and competitive offers from hotels.
He detailed that many hotels are providing room rate discounts along with reductions on food and beverage services in their restaurants, and these promotions have been disseminated through various booking channels, both online and direct.
He added that occupancy rates during Eid are between 65% and 70%, emphasizing that domestic tourism is the main driver of demand during Eid, with visitors preferring locations close to beaches and entertainment landmarks, ensuring a complete experience that combines accommodations with family activities.