The much-awaited Eid Al Fitr weekend is set to begin tomorrow, March 28, and there’s a wave of excitement among UAE residents as they eagerly anticipate the long holidays. The beam of joy takes over as there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Also, one tradition that stands out during this time is the adoration for Henna.
Many women in the UAE love to apply Henna on the night of Laylat Al Qadr (the Night of Destiny), while others prefer to adorn their hands with intricate designs in the final days of Ramadan to mark the festive occasion of Eid.
This year, UAE Henna artists are getting 50-plus bookings as the demand surges. Hariya Shaikh, 25-year-old professional bridal henna artist, says, “I have received bookings for over 30 to 40 women for this Eid. I feel that every Eid, the demand keeps increasing. I have noticed that not just Muslims in Dubai, but people from all communities celebrate Eid equally.”
Shaikh also reveals that many spend a base minimum of AED200 for particular designs, whereas a maximum of AED1200, inclusive of four sides in the UAE, depending on the artist and the kind of patterns expected. This range can increase too.
Speaking of the trends, she further adds, “The most popular design among my crowd is Indian Pakistani. They prefer Arabic designs, mostly, which is not too heavy nor too light.”
UAE Henna Trends
Meanwhile, Sherin Shahala, who has been in this profession for 6 years, specializing in Arabic and Indian bridal henna, shares similar insights, noting, “This year, I’ve received 50+ bookings so far, with the weekend quickly filling up as Eid approaches. It’s always a busy time, and I’m thrilled to see such high demand.”
“Yes, the demand this year has been much higher compared to previous years, with many people eager to celebrate and enjoy the festive season to the fullest,” Shahala adds.
According to Sherin, the most popular designs during Eid this year have been traditional Arabic patterns, intricate floral designs, and customized, contemporary styles for both hands and feet. “People seem to love a mix of classic elegance with a modern twist,” she concludes.
Sana, another professional from the UAE, shares, “This Eid, we’ve seen a massive influx of bookings, with over 25 group confirmed appointments so far. The last few days leading up to Eid are usually the busiest, we only take pre-booked appointments to schedule and deliver what we promised.”
According to Sana, too, “Arabic-style henna with bold floral patterns is a classic favorite,” but this year, she has noticed an increased demand for “minimalist, fine-line designs.”
“Younger clients love the trending tattoo-style henna with negative spaces and geometric elements,” she adds. Moreover, compared to last year, she exclaims there’s at least a “30% rise in bookings.”
The sentiments differ for Wafa Sadia, as she says, “Eid bookings are going on well, but I have received a few, maybe because people think Henna is more expensive than other things. I get booked by Indian, Pakistani ladies who want not very light designs. Mostly they prefer a little heavy or filled designs.”
However, she says, “Yes, I noticed a surge in demand compared to the previous year. As I was charging very less, I used to get more bookings.”
Lastly, Fana, who comes with 3 years of experience, shares, “This year, I’ve received 70+ bookings so far, with the weekend quickly filling up as Eid approaches. It’s always a busy time, and I’m thrilled to see such high demand.”
Again, the artist highlights that the most popular designs during Eid this year have been “traditional Arabic patterns, intricate floral designs, and customized, contemporary styles” for both hands and feet.
Fana thinks people seem to love a mix of classic elegance with a modern twist, as she says, “Yes, the demand this year has been 50% higher than compared to previous years, with many people eager to celebrate and enjoy the festive season to the fullest.”
Eid Al Fitr In UAE
The UAE is all set to celebrate Eid in style, with exciting events happening across the country. From super fireworks and festive events to incredible food and shopping deals, there’s something for everyone. Residents are eagerly looking forward to the long holiday break, making plans to enjoy it to the fullest. Now, all eyes are on the crescent moon sighting, which will officially mark the start of Eid. As one of the most anticipated holiday breaks, people are ensuring they make the most of it before returning refreshed and rejuvenated.
(Images supplied by Hariya Shaikh, Sana)
