Nisma Rafiq Saudi Gazette JEDDAH — Saudi Arabia is a country rich in diversity with people from all sorts of background, living and working in various cities. Some live as singles (unmarried or forced by circumstances) while others with their families. Those who have been living here get accustomed to Saudi culture and assimilate with it (acculturation), whereas mostly people learn the requirements such as language, values and local rituals, but keep their cultural identity as long as they live (Enculturation). Every Muslim, no matter where they reside on the globe, celebrates Eid according to its religious requirements and cultural values. That is, everyone celebrate it differently, but these differences are subtle. It is Sunnah to eat dates prior to Eid prayer, and to shower, wear clean and new clothes. Give charity or fitranah, offer prayers, meet and greet everyone in the Masjid or wherever one is praying Eid. Now the difference comes when it comes to food. The love for food is not a new story, and everyone has a unique taste. Each community serves the table with the most special dishes during Eid. These sweet, salty, sour and spicy delights are mostly inherited in families and has been handed down to every generation. Saudi Gazette looks at what delights and special treats various expat communities in Saudi Arabia enjoy during Eid. Yemen: The friendly people of Yemen; they are sure to have friends in each community from Africa to South Asia. They love to start their Eid day with a cup of strong Gehwa or coffee along with few dates. Special Eid Meal: National Dish Saltah is favorite among Yemenis on Eid day. Some believe this dish is 1,000 years old, other believe it has Turkish origins. It is a stew with the main ingredients being meat, fenugreek, chilies, tomatoes, garlic and herbs. Egypt: Most of the non-Arabs learn their Arabic from Egyptians first, and get to understand it later. They have fast paced accent compared to others. Egyptians say no matter what the occasion there will always be food on the table. Special Eid Meal: Fata is a classical Egyptian dish made with meat, rice, onions and vinegar. In addition, they prepare special cookies for Eid, named ‘Kahk Al Eid' (Cookies of the feast). An Egyptian poet, Fouad Haddad, claimed: “Oh kahk, master of generosity … we will never stop making you.” It's a cookie that has its origins in Egyptian history from the days of the pharaohs, and it makes a yearly appearance for Egyptian Muslims to mark the end of Ramadan. Afghanistan: The fair, honest and humble people of Afghanistan are hard workers, and they are so also in the Kingdom. They are quick learners. They've adapted to the language and food of the country and admire it. They make special preparations for Eid by cleaning their home and dressing nicely for the day. Special Eid Meal: After all the meetings and greetings it always come to food. Afghan's favorite treat is Shok Nakhud, mostly made up of chickpeas, potatoes and cilantro dressing and Cake Wa Kolcha, just like pound cake. Indonesia: Indonesia is the largest Muslim country based on population. Hardworking people of Indonesia come to the Kingdom for better employment opportunities. Special Eid Meal: Eid is known as Lebaran in Indonesia and special dishes served on Eid are Ketupat, opar; meat cooked in coconut milk with various spices and lemang (a glutinous rice cake cooked in bamboo) Pakistan: On the night when the moon of Eid is sighted, usually joyous Pakistani community will visit the shops with their families for Eid shopping. Special preparations are made for Eid and guests for the day. They call Eid Al Fitr, small Eid or sweet Eid so it is a must to have a dessert on Eid Day. Special Eid Meal: Traditional dessert “sheer khurma” which is made up of vermicelli, milk, butter, dry fruits and dates is prepared on Eid day along with special meat dishes such as Nehari, Korma etc. Somalia: The simple and decent people of Somalia tend to spend Eid with their loved ones. Special Eid Meal: Special delicacy xalvo, or most commonly known as Halwo is prepared for Eid. It is said that its origins can be traced back to Oman. It is made up of butter/oil, sugar and generous amount of spices like nutmeg, cardamom etc. India: Intelligent Indian celebrates Eid together in a community. They visit, greet and arrange big feasts at home. Special Eid Meal: Special delights like, vermicelli pudding also known as seviyaan along with Haleem made up of wheat, barley, lentils and meat in addition to nehari is served.
