Regional Conflict Unabated, Indonesians in UAE Still Devoutly Celebrate Eid

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Hundreds of Indonesian citizens (WNI) gathered at Masjid Joko Widodo in Abu Dhabi to perform Eid al-Fitr prayers together in a solemn and communal atmosphere, even amidst unabated regional tensions. According to information from the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia (KBRI) Abu Dhabi, received in Jakarta on Monday, Ambassador Judha Nugraha along with the extended KBRI Abu Dhabi family performed Eid al-Fitr prayers with around 1,500 other congregants at the mosque on Friday (20/3). “This year’s Eid al-Fitr prayer was different from previous years, where the event was focused inside the mosque and not held in open areas, as a precautionary measure against regional security dynamics,” stated KBRI Abu Dhabi. It was conveyed that in his sermon following the Eid al-Fitr prayer at the mosque, the imam emphasised the importance of piety, family harmony, social unity, and love for the homeland. These values are highly relevant in facing the current situation in efforts to maintain collective stability and security, said KBRI Abu Dhabi. After the Eid al-Fitr prayer concluded, the congregants shook hands and exchanged Eid greetings. The Indonesians also engaged in socialising with Ambassador Judha and his family, creating a warm atmosphere of togetherness among the Indonesian diaspora in a foreign land. However, this year KBRI Abu Dhabi did not organise a halal bihalal event gathering the Indonesian diaspora in the UAE, in accordance with directives from local authorities and for collective safety. Meanwhile, to ensure the safety of Indonesians in the UAE amid developments in the regional situation, KBRI Abu Dhabi continuously conducts intensive monitoring. “KBRI Abu Dhabi continues to intensively monitor developments in the UAE region and closely coordinates with local authorities as well as the Indonesian Consulate General in Dubai to ensure the protection and safety of all Indonesians remain well-maintained,” stated KBRI Abu Dhabi. KBRI Abu Dhabi also continues to urge Indonesians to remain calm, maintain harmony, and comply with UAE authorities’ instructions, including not taking or disseminating photos or videos of weapon fragments or remnants of security incidents. The Muslim community in the UAE, including the Indonesian diaspora in the country, celebrated Eid al-Fitr 1447 H, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan, on 20 March 2026.