The Eid al-Fitr fasting ceremony was held on April 13 in Hanoi. It was organized by the Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Vietnam in coordination with the Embassies of Arab and Muslim countries in Vietnam such as Palestine, Libya, United Arab Emirates, Morocco, Algeria, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Pakistan, Brunei, Iran and Azerbaijan.

Representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the Government Office, Ambassadors, Charge d'Affaires, Chief Representatives of a number of international organizations in Hanoi and the Muslim community members in Hanoi attended the event.

Delegates at the event (Photo: Embassy of Saudi Arabia in Vietnam).

When Ramadan ends, it is also the time for Muslims around the world to celebrate Eid al-Fitr. This is one of the most important holidays in the Islamic calendar. It is a time for forgiveness, compassion and solidarity, as people come together to celebrate the end of a month of spiritual renewal. Common activities to celebrate Eid al-Fitr include: Visiting family and friends, giving gifts, enjoying parties, wearing new clothes and visiting relatives' graves.

Speaking at the event, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Vietnam Mohammed Ismaeil A. Dahlwy gave an overview of the Eid al-Fitr celebration. In particular, Eid al-Fitr reminds Muslims to be grateful for what they have and to help those who are less fortunate. This is called "zakat" (charity), one of the five pillars of Islam. Zakat is an obligation under which Muslims are encouraged to make charitable donations to those less fortunate. The amount of "zakat" increases significantly during Ramadan and continues to be an important part of Eid Al-Fitr.

Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Vietnam Mohammed Ismaeil A. Dahlwy spoke at the event (Photo:Embassy of Saudi Arabia in Vietnam).

In Saudi Arabia, after performing Eid rituals, people often gather with children who are given new clothes, toys and “Eidia” gifts that may include money (similar to lucky money in Vietnam). Afterwards, it is time to enjoy coffee, dates, candies and traditional dishes.

"Eid Al-Fitr has many similarities with the Vietnamese custom of celebrating the Lunar New Year. Celebrating Eid Al-Fitr in Hanoi is a good opportunity for Saudi Arabia to introduce its image. as well as Arab and Muslim countries to Vietnamese friends," said Ambassador Mohammed.

At the program, the embassies of Bangladesh, Palestine, Libya, Morocco, Pakistan, Indonesia, Iran... also introduced their countries' culture and customs during Eid Al-Fitr and other traditional holiday celebrations.

The ceremony invited guests to immerse themselves in the vibrant and jubilant atmosphere of Eid al-Fitr, to experience the Arab and Muslim cultural space. Thereby, local people can learn more about the customs and cultural identities as well as enjoy the signature cuisine of these countries.

Other cultural activities at the ceremony include henna art, circus performances, and magic shows.

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