DUBAI: Millions of Muslims around the world performed Eid Al-Fitr prayers on Thursday with varying degrees of restrictions imposed because of COVID-19 and civil unrest.
Eid Al-Fitr marks the end of the holy fasting month of Ramadan, when Muslims abstain from any form of food – liquid or solid – as well as not smoking during daylight hours.
There are some similarities in the way Muslims celebrate around the world, with prayers and where possible with family and friends.
In Ukraine, Eastern Europe, Muslims bake cakes, go on picnics and organize barbecues in forests.
In Gaza, Muslims still prayed together despite intense fighting with Israel.
And in China - where the government has been facing intense criticism for its treatment of minority Muslims - Beijing's Muslim community gathered for Eid al-Fitr prayers at the Niujie Mosque - the capital city's biggest and oldest mosque.
In Afghanistan a three-day ceasefire has been agreed by the warring Taliban and Afghan forces, which came into force on Thursday.
Indonesia – the world’s biggest Muslim majority nation – has for a second year been severely impacted by the coronavirus pandemic.
Many mosques have had to be closed and restrictions on movements have impacted family reunions.
Even in non-Islamic countries, Muslims will attend local mosques to pray - but Thursday is normal working day and some will book the time off work to be with family - COVID–19 restrictions allowing.
For more images of Muslims welcoming Eid Al-Fitr click here.
