These district chiefs make use of the three-day Eid Al-Fitr celebration for their reconciliation efforts by organizing meetings of the district's residents, thus giving them a forum to gather, strengthen their relations and friendships, and remove misunderstandings.

Sami Maabar, umdah or chief of Rusaifa, said the preliminary meeting in his district is held at Prince Ahmed Mosque soon after the Eid prayer.

“We make arrangements for 1,200 people,” Maabar told Arab News.

Mosque authorities distribute chocolates and other sweets among the participants. This is the preliminary meeting when the district chief will announce his desire to meet with residents on the evenings of the second and third days of Eid at a venue near his office.

Such meetings will continue up to 10 p.m. and the well-off will arrange dinner for the participants. Maabar commended the readiness of rich people in the district to support their poor brethren, distributing Eid clothing and other assistance.

“During these meetings, people will come and hug each other, forgetting their differences. There are pleasant surprises at these meetings,” he added.

Mahmoud Baitar, chief of Hajla district, said he also held such meetings in the evenings for three days at Eid Al-Fitr every year in order to strengthen relations between the district's people. Such Eid gatherings are called Baraza, Baitar said.

Foods famous in Makkah, such as Saleek, Kably rice and Zirbeyan rice are shared among the participants.

“During these meetings we also distribute Eid dresses among the poor. We visit the elderly in their houses as well as in the homes for the aged to inquire about their health and distribute bouquets and other gifts,” he pointed out. “As the district is located close to the Haram, a large number of pilgrims from different countries take part in our Eid social gatherings. “

He added that previous residents of the district often come to meet with their old friends during the Eid festivities.

Dhafir Al-Bishi, umdah of Jomaiza district, said he has been holding Baraza for many years.

“Our Eid program has included folklore dances and sports for the children,” he said.

“The main feature of these gatherings is that it sets the stage for individuals and families to reconcile differences and open a new chapter in their lives,” said Al-Bishi.