The Eid Al-Fitr celebration is among the most prominent events celebrated by Saudis; it’s almost impossible to stay behind or ignore this Eid or its celebrations.

But it seems that travel and tourism offices, and airlines have become the biggest beneficiary of this holiday with many people deliberately spending the Eid outside the Kingdom, searching for fun through travel, and seeking to spend joyful times, even if they have to go to China.

Despite the preparations made by the secretariats of many regions for Eid, many didn’t like them, describing such events and activities as “dull and boring.”

A number of citizens, interviewed by a local newspaper, said that the habits of our communities have changed in celebrating this event, and burdened them with further formalities and exaggerated routines, so it is better to spend the money on travel and enjoy it.

Those who follow up on the events prepared by the secretariats and municipalities, enjoy the crowds of people attending the plays, firework displays, folklore and the Saudi Ardah, a popular dance, as well as other activities for women and children. Despite all this, others see that these activities do not account to their tastes for pleasure and entertainment.

Speaking on this issue, Umm Naif said: “I cannot imagine myself being away from my family and my loved ones in Riyadh, or spending Eid without receiving Eid greeting from my children. Eid has a special delicious flavor among family members and relatives. It is impossible for me to spend this day away traveling.

All I can say is, ‘thank you Riyadh Secretariat and Municipality for these efforts made to celebrate the day and bring a big smile on the faces of children and their parents.’”

Anoud Al-Harbi agreed with Umm Naif saying: “The joy is not complete without meeting with parents and relatives, to literally follow in the steps of our grandfathers and go with the customs and traditions.” She added that Eid represents, first and above all else, a moral delight, not the material things.

On the other hand, Khaled Alfaleh is opposed to the idea of spending Eid in the country, saying that such Eid celebrations are for “kids,” without attractions for young people.

He added: “No one denies the many activities at the regional level, especially in Riyadh, but they are mostly intended for children. The events and activities for the youth don’t grab my attention personally. The plays in general are without cultural or artistic nature, and the events are repeated every year and I don’t blame any young man for wanting to travel during this holiday, although I personally prefer to spend it with friends and relatives.”