What happens during Saudi Arabia’s ‘early hour’ before Eid prayer?

2026-03-21 - 15:50

RIYADH — With a centuries-old religous holiday celebrated by millions across the globe, cultural traditions are developed over time, and the Saudi traditions for the mornings of Eid Al-Fitr are marked with cherished social customs that precede the Eid prayer. While many are fast asleep in the “early hour” of the morning — the period between the Fajr (dawn) and Eid prayers — Saudis are creating social moments with gathering of thier families in an atmosphere of joy and anticipation. **media[2680483]** During this time, family members exchange greetings with parents and relatives, and all are adorend in thier best, new clothes. The "early hour" is also filled with culinary traditions, most notably the preparation of a festive morning spread featuring traditional dishes such as qursan (traditional thin breads cooked with meat and vegetables), areeka (traditional dessert), ghee, and honey. **media[2680485]** According to the Encyclopedia of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, published by the King Abdulaziz Public Library, it is customary in some regions for each family to prepare a signature traditional dish. Following Eid prayer, neighborhood residents commune in a freshly carpeted area to exchange — usually in a gardem park or by the sea, to exchange greetings over coffee and wish each other a happy Eid. **media[2680486]** Homes are also meticulously prepared to welcome well-wishers. Living rooms are scented with incense, and traditional sheep's wool rugs—known locally as "shamla" and "jawa'id"—are spread out, reflecting the deep-rooted values of generosity and social connection in Saudi society. In modern days, homes decorated and light up by electric fawanees lamps left over from Ramadan, as well as tapered fairy lights.