Shoppers are packing malls and markets despite the increase in prices. – SG photo JEDDAH – Despite the tough economic conditions Eid preparations are in full swing with malls and markets packed with shoppers buying food, clothing and gifts for their loved ones. Abdul Kareem, a salesman at a shop selling readymade garments, confirmed that business is booming. He said it does not appear that the increase in the prices of goods, and disasters like the flooding in Pakistan, has put a brake on spending. “People are buying new clothes, shoes and other things. Our business is in full swing, especially now over the last 10 days of Ramadan. This is our season time and we didn't see any change in the trend to buy gifts for Eid. New clothes on Eid day are essential so people are buying for their children and themselves, and even as gifts,” he said. Sadiya Aftab and her friend Najla Sudaire said they love to do Eid shopping, especially buying gifts for friends. “Eid is our festival so we should celebrate it whole-heartedly. “Every year we buy gifts and things for family members and friends and this year we did the same. Giving charity is also essential, so we did that, but we should not stop celebrations on our day,” said Najla. However, not everyone believes in celebrating Eid by spending money at malls and markets. Zubair Amir Ali, a Pakistani national, said he is planning to go on a picnic. “We friends are planning to go to Nakhil beach or some other place because Eid is the day to celebrate with friends and you also have money left over in your pocket.” Abdul Muqtader, an Indian national, does not believe huge parties should be held, particularly with disasters in places like Pakistan which has affected millions of Muslims. “Celebrating Eid means we should pray the Eid prayer together. Lavish parties should not take place this time. It doesn't matter where the disaster has happened. We are with our brothers and sisters wherever they are. I hope that the community will also consider their plight.” Warda Naeem, who is seven years old, said that she sent all her Eid money as charity to the flood victims in Pakistan. Asimuddin Ansari Razi, an Indian national, said that Islam requires celebrations to be simple. “I am planning to celebrate Eid very simply, because Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught us not to live a lavish life and to share our smiles and happiness with needy people.” Sell Manuel, a Sri Lankan national, believes Eid is a time for families and friends. “Every year we get together with friends and family. This is the only time when we have outdoor activities with our families. Even though so many things have happened around the world, it doesn't mean we should not have a good time with our families.” Fateh Chwikani, a Jordanian medical student, said that students and people who live far away from home lose the spirit of Eid celebrations. He is spending his Eid alone in Jordan this year, while the rest of his family is in Madina. He is doing so because he has to save up his money for a trip to Germany. “I think that whatever is happening around us, we deserve a day of happiness. Afterwards we can go back to face our concerns,” he said.
