Saudi Arabia Collaborates with Arab and Muslim Nations to Celebrate Eid al-Fitr in Hanoi, Vietnam

Sunday, April 14, 2024

The Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, in collaboration with several Arab and Muslim embassies in Vietnam, including Palestine, Libya, the UAE, Morocco, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Pakistan, Brunei, Iran, Azerbaijan, and Algeria, came together to host the Eid al-Fitr celebration on April 13.

The event was graced by representatives from various Vietnamese ministries and agencies, such as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, and the Government Office. Additionally, diplomats, charge d’affaires, and representatives from diplomatic missions and international organizations in Hanoi attended, alongside numerous members of the Muslim community in the city.

At the event, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia H.E Mr. Mohammed Ismaeil A. Dahlwy introduced the Feast of Eid al-Fitr and its importance to Muslim, saying: “Ramadan is a time of fasting, prayer, and reflection for Muslims around the world. It is a time when they strive to be their best, both spiritually and morally. And when Ramadan comes to a close, it is a time of great celebration and joy.”

Eid al-Fitr holds significant importance in the Islamic calendar, marked by gatherings of Muslims with loved ones for prayers, gift exchanges, and indulging in delicious feasts. It symbolizes forgiveness, compassion, and solidarity, concluding a month of spiritual rejuvenation.

Celebrations during Eid al-Fitr vary worldwide but commonly involve visiting family and friends, exchanging presents, enjoying elaborate meals, donning new attire, and paying respects at the graves of loved ones.

In Saudi Arabia, post-Eid prayers, families gather with children who receive new clothes, toys, and Eidia gifts, which can include monetary tokens akin to lucky money traditions in Vietnam.

Following the prayers, everyone relishes Saudi coffee and dates, followed by a sumptuous traditional feast and sweets. On the inaugural evening of Eid Al Fitr, individuals don their finest attire, often newly acquired for this occasion, to witness fireworks and exchange heartfelt greetings of “Happy Eid.”

The Ambassador also underscored that: “As we come together today to celebrate Eid al-Fitr, we are reminded of the values of peace, coexistence, and unity that this occasion represents. It serves as a poignant reminder that despite our differences, we all share the same hopes and dreams for a future of harmony and understanding”.

“However, amidst our celebrations, we cannot ignore the plight of the Palestinian people who continue to endure immense suffering. It is imperative that we stand in solidarity with them during these challenging times. We must advocate for an immediate cessation of attacks on innocent civilians and the establishment of safe humanitarian and relief corridors to alleviate their suffering.

“Moreover, we must work towards ensuring that they can exercise their legitimate rights, including the establishment of their independent state and living in safety and dignity. As we pray for security, peace, and stability in our region and the world, let us also commit ourselves to fostering understanding, tolerance, and compassion, so that all people can live harmoniously, regardless of their religious beliefs or cultural backgrounds. May security, peace, and stability prevail in our region and the world,” he said.

During the celebration, the embassies of Bangladesh, Palestine, Libya, Morocco, Pakistan, Indonesia, and Iran showcased the culture, customs, and traditions of their respective countries in honor of Eid al-Fitr. They presented video clips offering insights into their culture, landscapes, and people.

Attendees not only soaked in the lively atmosphere of Eid al-Fitr but also delved into the Arabic and Muslim cultural milieu. They had the opportunity to explore and understand the customs and cultural identities of these nations while savoring their signature dishes, cakes, and cuisine.

Furthermore, the festivities featured a range of diverse cultural activities, including henna painting—an art form adorning hands and feet with ink extracted from the Henna tree leaves—alongside captivating circus and magic performances. Children also engaged in statue painting activities, adding to the vibrancy of the event.

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