Experiencing Eid in Downtown Dubai

Last-minute plans often hold the promise of unexpected adventure. Recognizing the fervor with which the country embraces celebrations, we couldn't pass up the opportunity to join in. By 8 pm, we found ourselves heading towards Downtown Dubai, eager to immerse ourselves in the festivities.

I had never witnessed such a bustling congregation of people in one place. Amidst the crowd, there were individuals sacrificing their own Eid celebrations to ensure the safety of others, guiding lost souls and facilitating the crossing of busy streets on this vibrant night. After securing a parking spot, I reassured my my mum that food was imminent as we headed towards the Dubai Fountain. She was beginning to get a little attitude. Standing amidst the towering giants of architecture, I couldn't help but feel awe-struck by my minuscule presence in this grandeur. Dubai's commitment to safety and family-friendliness was evident as I approached an Arab gentleman, clad in traditional attire and a yellow vest, seeking directions. Initially assuming I was alone, he directed me in the opposite direction before realising I was accompanied by my parents. With a smile, he remarked, "Oh, you're with family. Please, go ahead. Only families are allowed." It was a rule that resonated deeply with me. As we navigated towards the heart of the festivities, we found ourselves waiting at a traffic light alongside a throng of fifty or more people. Suddenly, another Arab individual approached us, swiftly guiding us through the bustling crowd, remarking, "Family? This way, it's faster." The hospitality and care we received were truly remarkable. Within moments, we found ourselves standing at the foot of the world's tallest building, marvelling at the illuminated words "Eid Mubarak," radiating elegance and warmth.

It felt surreal, the sheer magnitude of people surrounding us was overwhelming. Despite not typically enjoying crowds, I couldn't deny the infectious energy that filled the air. As we began capturing moments with our cameras and soaking in the mesmerizing sights, a distant sound caught our attention – music. Turning around, we were greeted by the sight of water gracefully dancing in the air, beckoning us closer. Without hesitation, we hastened our steps towards the source. It was the commencement of the Dubai Fountain show, renowned as one of the world's largest choreographed fountain systems. With water jets reaching heights of up to 500 feet, the spectacle unfolded in perfect harmony with an eclectic mix of musical genres. The fountains themselves, adorned with over 6,600 lights and 25 color projectors, transformed the night into a kaleidoscope of hues, casting an enchanting glow against the iconic backdrop of the Burj Khalifa. Amidst the spectacle, I couldn't help but notice the charming little boats gracefully gliding across the water, and a spontaneous decision formed in my mind – I simply had to get my mum on one of those.

Forty minutes before our lake excursion, we ventured into the Dubai Mall for a quick bite. The pistachio milk cake we indulged in was nothing short of spectacular. "Are you enjoying yourself, Mum?" I inquired, to which her honest reply was a simple, "No." Her candor always brings a smile to my face. As we made our way towards the lake ride, the walk itself proved to be a visual feast. The diligent presence of security personnel throughout the area made navigating our path considerably smoother. Curiously, I observed numerous people crouching and snapping photos from unusual angles. Puzzled by this phenomenon for several minutes, I finally turned to notice the towering presence of the Burj Khalifa directly behind me. Straining my neck to look up at its impressive height, I couldn't help but marvel at its sheer size. Adjacent to the Burj Khalifa stood a building adorned with a plethora of restaurants, including shisha lounges. Positioned perfectly to offer breathtaking views of the iconic structure and the mesmerizing Fountain show, they seemed like ideal spots to soak in the spectacle.

After a wait of about twenty minutes in line, our turn finally arrived. Boarding the boat, we embarked on a serene journey around the tranquil waters of Burj Lake. The water, crystal clear and shallow, added to the enchanting atmosphere. Joined by a small crowd eagerly awaiting the Fountain show, we positioned ourselves for an optimal view. As the other boats aligned and the lights dimmed, anticipation filled the air. The melodic strains of music filled our ears as the fountains erupted, shooting water high into the night sky, captivating our senses once again. For the third time that evening, we were spellbound by the mesmerising display. Being in such close proximity to the spectacle was truly enthralling, with the Burj Khalifa serving as a magnificent backdrop, illuminated in all its glory. As the show concluded, we slowly navigated back through the water, and I couldn't resist asking my mum once more, "Are you enjoying yourself now?", she nodded and smiled.