14 of the Best Locations for Eid al-Fitr

The culmination of a month of reflection and time with loved ones, the Eid al-Fitr holiday presents a special opportunity for meaningful connection, by discovering new destinations together. I have always felt a vacation at the end of Ramadan has an extra special feel – the spirit of the season conjures an energy and ambience unique to this time of year, setting the tone for an unforgettable trip.

Perhaps it’s a rejuvenating beachside retreat that beckons. Maybe indulgent days of retail discovery and exquisite cuisine are what entice. Or the fun that awaits on, and below, crystal waters might offer allure. Come with me to discover the most captivating destinations to inspire the mind and enrich the soul at this cherished time of year…

Relax on a beach retreat

MAHE, SEYCHELLES 

In southwest Mahé, verdant greenery adorns Mount Kempinski, creating a majestic yet cocooning feeling. Down below, ivory sands are gently lapped by turquoise waters in this definitive tropical haven. Here, you can truly hide away. At Kempinski Seychelles Resort, tranquillity abounds, giving little reason to leave your spot on the sand, though inspiring walks through nature and soothing spa treatments are all on offer, while a whole colourful world waits below the gentle waves of the Indian Ocean for keen snorkellers and divers.

DEAD SEA, JORDAN 

Those to whom the water calls must also experience the wonder of the Dead Sea at least once. The lowest point on earth, this spectacular natural wonder brims with energy and legend. Floating on the buoyant waters – which are 10 times saltier than normal seas – is an awe-inspiring experience. For centuries, visitors have bathed in the salty lake, which is said to have healing properties. Soak up the warmth of the water along with the rich history of the area, which continues to capture the imagination of all who visit. Kempinski Hotel Ishtar is a luxurious location from which to explore this incomparable destination. From this spectacular base, you can hike through the Wadi Mujib sandstone gorge, Jordan's most famous river canyon, which offers many a pinch-yourself moment as you traverse between towering sandstone. You can even extend the adventure by continuing your journey with a stay at Kempinski Hotel Aqaba. 

PALM JUMEIRAH, DUBAI, U.A.E.

Golden hues also abound in Dubai, where the famous Palm Jumeirah offers a luxurious beach-side escape, with the buzzing mainland just moments away should you want to explore its luxury shopping, dynamic dining scene, or enchanting desert. In a city of many faces, from the serene and cultural, to the adrenaline-pumping and fun-filled, you may want to stay a little longer at Kempinski Hotel & Residences Palm Jumeirah, the grand resort on the Palm Jumeirah’s west crescent. From here, the Arabian sea glitters uninterrupted to the horizon from one vantage point, while the instantly recognisable Dubai Marina skyline rises from the shores from another. The resort is a perfect spot to catch some of the city’s Eid al-Fitr fireworks shows.

Indulge in Eid shopping experiences

 

DUBAI, U.A.E.

Sprawling malls where aquariums, ski slopes, ice rinks, and famous restaurants present endless experiences beyond shopping are synonymous with Dubai. An Eid al-Fitr stay in Downtown will place you just steps away from Dubai Mall, the largest in the world. Here, Eid al-Fitr is a big affair, with the retail experiences, events and offers a celebration in themselves. Promotions are impressive, with many big-name brands on sale, while there is also an abundance of luxury brands at the mall’s Fashion Avenue. Stay till late and watch the Burj Khalifa start to twinkle and the Dubai Fountains begin to dance while dining at a restaurant in nearby Souk Bahar where you will have a front-row view of this nightly show.

You can’t get any closer to the retail fun than Kempinski Central Avenue Dubai located within Dubai Mall itself, while just moments down the road Kempinski The Boulevard Dubai sits on the same stretch as Dubai Opera, and moments from the city’s fine dining hub, Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC).

In the middle of town is Mall of the Emirates, where you can shop all morning, then meet a penguin and warm up with a hot chocolate in the afternoon at Ski Dubai, also set inside the mall. During Eid al-Fitr, activations and promotions will keep shoppers on their toes all day – right up until its midnight closure. Another in-mall hotel, Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates is a brilliant base for a trip dedicated to retail therapy, but also offers a surprising alpine experience with a selection of ski chalet-style rooms overlooking the slopes.

THE PEARL, DOHA, QATAR

GCC’s luxurious shopping culture can also be experienced with a European touch in Doha, Qatar. Marsa Malaz Kempinski The Pearl is the largest hotel beach in Doha and is in a prime location. Guests can step out to explore the lavish shopping and dining of The Pearl, a private island whose West Bay district has gained the moniker ‘The Arabian Riviera’ thanks to its yacht-filled marinas and luxury designer boutiques and showrooms. Its distinct Mediterranean-inspired areas include Porto Arabia, where you can daydream about owning a luxury boat while indulging in ice creams and street food; Qanat Quartier which is home to colourful buildings, canals and café culture which make a nod to Venice; and Medina Centrale which embodies a plaza atmosphere, with family-friendly open spaces, shops, and restaurants. For longer stays which leave time for poolside relaxation in between the retail adventures, Kempinski Residences & Suites Doha is located in the tallest tower in West Bay – with spectacular sea views.

Discover historic sites

CAIRO, EGYPT

That magical blend of heritage and modernity can also be found in New Cairo, Egypt. ‘Culturally rich’ doesn’t quite describe the depth of heritage to be discovered here so a day or two won’t be enough; try to tag on a few extra days to your Eid break and get ticking off your bucket list, at the top of which will probably be the Great Pyramids of Giza and The Great Sphinx of Giza – but there’s so much more. The Egyptian Museum in Cairo and The Grand Egyptian Museum, set to open in 2024, along with the bazaars at Khan Al Khalili, and bustling nightlight. But not to be missed at Eid al-Fitr is the magical historic district of Islamic Cairo, where palaces, madrasas, and the impressive Mosque of Muhammad Ali and Sultan Hassan Mosques can be witnessed at the most significant time of year for Muslims.

Royal Maxim Palace Kempinski adds to the grandeur of a visit to the Pharoh’s former city, with its grand palatial design, and opulent spa. Those who wish to take the pace a little slower in Egypt can find tranquillity in the city at Kempinski Nile Hotel, which sits in a splendid spot on the banks of the Nile, deeply entwined in history, culture, and spirituality. Some of Cairo’s best-in-class dining is at this hotel, and golf lovers will delight in the 18-hole course at nearby Madinaty Golf Club

Tick off a bucket list adventure

NAIROBI & MASAI MARA, KENYA

Waking up to witness elephants gracefully stroll across the plain with a blazing African sunrise silhouetting the herd is as visceral a sight as you will see. Morning bush drives might yield a thrilling cheetah chase, or a glimpse of the elusive leopard. Or maybe it will be an altogether quieter morning – that’s the thrill of an African safari.

Hippos rest barely moving other than a fluttery blink of eyes peeking above muddy waters. A leathery spiked tail might swish in the corner of your eye. It’s on many a travel wish list and a magical visit to Kenya’s Masai Mara will stay with you forever. Most guests fly into Nairobi, where you can start your safari adventure with a night or two at Villa Rosa Kempinski Nairobi. Here you can refresh and relax after your flight or indulge in a spa treatment. A small plane will take you over the savannah to Olare Mara Kempinski, where a blend of African tradition and luxury combine for a beautiful adventure. The hotel is set in its own conservancy which boasts the highest number of lions in the Mara ecosystem.

AQABA, JORDAN

If it’s water-borne adventures that sound exciting, then Aqaba, Jordan’s only coastal town, is home to a four-kilometre stretch of some of the Red Sea’s most vibrant sea life. More than 500 species of fish and abundant biodiverse coral reefs call it home, making it a hot spot for scuba divers, with sites suitable for beginners and pros. Stay at Kempinski Hotel Aqaba and chase thrills on the back of a jet ski or try parasailing and windsurfing. If you prefer to stay dry, take in the wonder of sea on a boat charter trip on which you can relax and enjoy the azure waters, or try fishing. New mountain biking trails have recently opened for the intrepid traveller, and the Jebel Um Ad Dami mountain affords those who ascend its magnificent views all the way to the Saudi Arabian border. And a trip to Jordan wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the ancient city of Petra, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. This ancient city, which was built in the third century BCE, is a two-hour drive from Aqaba and day trips with a guide can be organised.

SOMA BAY, EGYPT

Across the Red Sea, you eventually get to Egypt, and at the coast, similar seaside adventures await. Kempinski Hotel Soma Bay is a family-friendly yet highly luxurious property with one of the region’s largest and best-equipped thalasso-therapy centres, Spa & Thalasso.

Whether you find yourself swept up in a lively souk, bobbing on salt-filled waters, or watching a pride of lions at breakfast, embrace the magic of Eid al-Fitr and make treasured memories to last for many years to come.

If you enjoyed this, learn more about the treasures of Egypt in this special feature.